Efficacy of Gefitinib Combined with Methotrexate in the Medical Management of Ectopic Pregnancy
Keywords:
Ectopic Pregnancy, Gefitinib, Methotrexate, Tubal Ectopic Pregnancy, Conservative Management, β-hCG, Trophoblastic Regression, Fertility Preservation, Targeted Therapy, Medical ManagementAbstract
Background: Ectopic pregnancy is a potentially life-threatening implantation of a fertilized ovum outside the uterine cavity, accounting for significant first-trimester maternal morbidity and mortality. Methotrexate is the standard medical therapy; however, treatment failure and need for rescue surgery remain major clinical concerns.
Objective: The study aims to evaluate the efficacy of gefitinib combined with methotrexate in the medical management of ectopic pregnancy.
Methodology: The study analyses the efficacy of gefitinib–methotrexate combination therapy by evaluating treatment success without surgery, β-hCG decline, time to resolution, adverse effects, and need for additional intervention through clinical trials and review evidence.
Results: Combination therapy demonstrated successful resolution in 86% of stable tubal ectopic pregnancies without surgical intervention. Median resolution time was reduced by nearly 34% compared with methotrexate alone, with significantly faster β-hCG decline observed during the first week of treatment. In non-tubal ectopic pregnancies, successful resolution and preservation of fertility outcomes were also reported. Common adverse effects included transient acneiform rash and diarrhea, while serious toxicities remained uncommon.
Conclusion: Gefitinib combined with methotrexate represents a promising adjunctive medical therapy for ectopic pregnancy by enhancing trophoblastic regression and reducing treatment duration. The combination may improve conservative management outcomes, although further large-scale randomized trials are required to establish long-term efficacy and safety.
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