To compare the mean induction-expulsion times in two regimens of vaginal misoprostol for second-trimester pregnancy termination.
We performed a retrospective study of 281 pregnancies between January 2000 and December 2005 (regimen A: 800 渭g /24 h) and between June 2007 and December 2008 (regimen B: 400 渭g /4 h). Induction-expulsion time was taken as the main outcome.
The mean expulsion time was similar in both regimens (19.7 h for A and 17.7 h for B). No significant differences were found in the expulsion rate at 12, 24 and 48 h. The most commonly observed adverse effect was fever, which was more frequent in regimen B. No major adverse effects such as uterine rupture or severe hemorrhage were observed.
No significant differences were found between regimens A and B in the mean fetal expulsion time, although fever was more common in regimen B.