Trichosanthin
Abortion, Induced
Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal
Effect of DL111-IT on progesterone biosynthesis and viability of rat luteal cells in vitro. (1/197)
AIM: To study the influence of DL111-IT on progesterone biosynthesis of cultured luteal cells (LC). METHODS: LC viability was assessed with trypan blue dye exclusion and progesterone concentration was measured with radioimmunoassay. RESULTS: DL111-IT decreased the viability of LC after 24-h incubation, its ED50 being 7.7 (95% confidence limits: 7.1-8.5) mg.L-1. DL111-IT inhibited basal secretion of progesterone in a concentration-dependent manner, and 3 mg.L-1 decreased progesterone concentration by 25% vs control. DL111-IT 3 mg.L-1 also inhibited the stimulatory effect of forskolin (cAMP activator) 10 mumol.L-1 and pregnenolone [converted to progesterone by 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-isomerase complex (3 beta-HSD)] 10 mumol.L-1 on progesterone production in cultured LC, and their inhibitory rates were 43% and 155%, respectively. At the same concentration, DL111-IT did not influence hCG-induced progesterone production. CONCLUSION: DL111-IT inhibited progesterone synthesis by suppressing the conversion of pregnenolone to progesterone (inactivating 3 beta-HSD) and suppressed the activity of cAMP. DL111-IT 6-24 mg.L-1 decreased the viability of LC. (+info)The effectiveness of non-surgical management of early interstitial pregnancy: a report of ten cases and review of the literature. (2/197)
OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness of non-surgical management of interstitial pregnancy. DESIGN: A prospective interventional study. SUBJECTS: Eleven women with the ultrasound diagnosis of interstitial ectopic pregnancy. METHODS: Women with suspected early pregnancy complications were examined by transvaginal ultrasound. Those with the diagnosis of interstitial pregnancy were offered non-surgical treatment with methotrexate, which was administered systemically or by local injection. Follow-up with regular measurements of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin and ultrasound scans continued until the pregnancy had resolved completely. RESULTS: Ten women were managed non-surgically, and one woman opted for surgery. Five women received systemic and five local methotrexate. Local therapy was successful in all five cases (100%), whereas four out of five (80%) women receiving systemic methotrexate were cured. Significant side-effects were noted in two women following systemic therapy. In comparison, there were no side-effects in the group of women who received local therapy. There were no significant differences between the two treatment groups in the length of time taken for the pregnancy to resolve. CONCLUSIONS: Non-surgical treatment of interstitial pregnancy with methotrexate appears to be safe and effective. Local administration appears to be more successful and better tolerated by patients and may be used as the first-line therapy. (+info)Once-a-month treatment with a combination of mifepristone and the prostaglandin analogue misoprostol. (3/197)
In this two centre study, the efficacy of 200 mg mifepristone orally followed 48 h later by 0.4 mg misoprostol orally for menstrual regulation was investigated. The dose of mifepristone was taken the day before the expected day of menstruation. Each volunteer was planned to participate for up to 6 months. A plasma beta human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) was measured on the day of mifepristone intake. The study was disrupted prematurely due to low efficacy. In 125 treatment cycles the overall pregnancy rate was 17.6% (22 pregnancies) and the rate of continuing pregnancies (failure) was 4.0%. Eight women discontinued the study due to bleeding irregularities which were seen in 15 cycles (12%). These effects on bleeding pattern made the timing of treatment day difficult. Late luteal phase treatment with a combination of mifepristone and misoprostol is not adequately effective for menstrual regulation. (+info)Angiotensin II interacts with prostaglandin F2alpha and endothelin-1 as a local luteolytic factor in the bovine corpus luteum in vitro. (4/197)
Recent findings suggest that the ovarian renin-angiotensin system may regulate ovarian function through the paracrine/autocrine actions of angiotensin II (Ang II). In this study, we have examined and characterized the local effects of Ang II as a luteolytic factor and its interaction with prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) in the bovine corpus luteum (CL) of the mid-luteal phase, by using an in vitro microdialysis system (MDS). Ang II was detected in the MDS perfusate (4 pg/ml), and infusion of PGF2alpha (10(-6) M) for 2 h increased the Ang II release by 50-100% during the following experimental period, in addition to its stimulation of ET-1 release. Two 2-h infusions of Ang II (10(-7)-10(-5) M) separated by a 2-h interval induced a dose- and time-dependent decrease of progesterone (P4) release by 41-66%. When the luteal explants were pre-perfused with PGF2alpha (10(-6) M) for 2 h, two consecutive perfusions of Ang II (10(-6) M) at a 2-h interval rapidly reduced the P4 release (by 50%). This reduction occurred 6 h earlier than those of infusions of PGF2alpha or Ang II alone. The simultaneous infusion of either 1) Ang II (10(-6) M) with PGF2alpha (10(-6) M), 2) ET-1 (10(-7) M) with PGF2alpha, or 3) Ang II + ET-1 with PGF2alpha (10(-6) M) for 2 h also induced a rapid and pronounced (60%) decrease in P4 release. Perfusion with the Ang II antagonist blocked the P4-suppressing activity of Ang II alone or PGF2alpha + Ang II infusion. Ang II stimulated the release of ET-1 and oxytocin during infusion but inhibited them after infusion. These results show that Ang II is released in the bovine midcycle CL in vitro, and this peptide, either alone or together with PGF2alpha, can suppress the release of P4. As PGF2alpha directly stimulated Ang II release, Ang II may influence the critical period for starting the cascade of functional luteolysis in vivo and might lead to structural luteolysis with ET-1 as a major vasoconstrictor. The overall results suggest that Ang II may have an important role at luteolysis in the bovine CL. (+info)Does an acidic medium enhance the efficacy of vaginal misoprostol for pre-abortion cervical priming? (5/197)
Absorption pharmacokinetics reveal a relationship between plasma concentrations of misoprostol and its therapeutic effect. To achieve a constant plasma profile and optimal efficacy, it is important to develop a medium that ensures complete dissolution of vaginal misoprostol tablets. Vaginal misoprostol is said to liquefy better in an acidic medium; thus, the aim of this study was to determine whether a 200 microg misoprostol tablet dissolved in acetic acid would be more efficacious than 200 microg misoprostol dissolved in water for pre-abortion cervical priming. A total of 120 healthy nulliparous women requesting legal termination of pregnancy between 6-12 weeks gestation were allocated randomly to either of the study groups. Vacuum aspiration was performed 3-4 h after insertion of the misoprostol tablet. Using Hegar's dilator, the degree of cervical dilatation before operation was measured. Of 60 women, 14 (23%) achieved a cervical dilatation of >/=8 mm when the misoprostol dose was dissolved in acetic acid; 12 (20%) achieved a similar cervical dilatation when the dose was dissolved in water. The mean cervical dilatation for the acid and water media used was 6.3 mm and 6.2 mm respectively; these differences were not statistically significant, neither were pre-operative and intra-operative blood losses statistically different between the two groups. Twenty-four (40%) and four (7%) respectively of women in whom a water medium was used experienced vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain; 20 (33%) and 0 women respectively among those in whom an acetic acid medium was used experienced vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain. These differences in side effects were not statistically significant. Our study shows that the use of acetic acid to dissolve vaginal misoprostol does not improve the efficacy in achieving successful cervical dilatation for pre-abortion cervical priming. (+info)The use of misoprostol for pre-operative cervical dilatation prior to vacuum aspiration: a randomized trial. (6/197)
Misoprostol is effective for cervical priming prior to vacuum aspiration for first trimester termination of pregnancy. Previous studies showed that the oral route was more acceptable to patients but there were higher incidences of side-effects when compared with the vaginal route. This study is to determine the optimal dosage and route of administration of misoprostol for pre-operative cervical dilatation. A double-blind, randomized trial was undertaken for 225 nulliparous women with 8-12 weeks amenorrhoea. They were randomly assigned to groups given 0 (placebo), 200 or 400 microg oral or vaginal misoprostol 3 h prior to vacuum aspiration. In misoprostol-treated groups the baseline cervical dilatation was significantly increased when compared with the placebo group; the effect was dose-related in the oral but not in the vaginal group. The cumulative force and blood loss was significantly decreased in the misoprostol-treated groups. The incidences of side-effects were more frequent in misoprostol groups but were not related to the route and dosage of medication. The duration of procedure, incidences of post-operative complications, the duration of post-operative bleeding and the interval to the first period were similar in the five treatment groups. We conclude that a 3 h pre-treatment interval is effective for both oral and vaginal routes. When given orally, 400 microg is more effective than 200 microg. The efficacy was otherwise similar when compared with the vaginal route. We recommend 400 microg oral misoprostol 3 h prior to vacuum aspiration for cervical dilatation. (+info)Induction of parturition in bitches with minimal side effects by two injections of a low dose of fenprostalene, a prostaglandin F2alpha analogue, and pretreatment with prifinium bromide. (7/197)
An experiment using 16 Beagle bitches (aged 11 months to 6 years and 2 months) in their 56th to 58th day of pregnancy was carried out to investigate the effects of two injections of a low dose of fenprostalene, a long-acting prostaglandin F2alpha analogue, and pretreatment with prifinium bromide, a parasympathetic nerve blocking agent, on the induction of parturition and severity of side effects. The bitches were divided into three treatment groups: one injection of 5 microg/kg of fenprostalene (group I, n=5); one injection of 7.5 mg/head of prifinium bromide followed by one injection of 5 microg/kg of fenprostalene at 5 min after prifinium bromide injection (group II, n=6); and one injection of 7.5 mg/head of prifinium bromide followed by two injections of 2.5 microg/kg of fenprostalene, one injection at 5 min after prifinium bromide injection and the next at 1 hr after the fenprostalene first injection (group III, n=5). Following the injection of fenprostalene, side effects such as salivation, vomiting, colic symptoms, and watery diarrhea occurred most frequently (80-100% of cases) in group I bitches. Apart from colic symptoms, no side effects were observed in group III bitches. Group III bitches also showed the smallest increase in plasma cortisol concentration. No significant difference in the time to initiation of parturition was found between the three groups. The one-week survival rate of newborn puppies was highest in group III. The results showed that pretreatment with prifinium bromide and two injections of 2.5 microg/kg of fenprostalene can alleviate side effects following fenprostalene administration and have no adverse effect on the survival of newborn puppies, indicating that this method is a reliable and safe way of inducing parturition in bitches. (+info)A comparison of two regimens of intravaginal misoprostol for termination of second trimester pregnancy: a randomized comparative trial. (8/197)
A prospective randomized trial was conducted in 148 women to compare the efficacy of two regimens of vaginal misoprostol for termination of second trimester pregnancy. Women aged 16-40 years requesting termination of second trimester pregnancy were randomized into two groups. Women in group 1 were given vaginal misoprostol 400 microg every 3 h for a maximum of five doses in 24 h. Women in group 2 were given vaginal misoprostol 400 microg every 6 h for a maximum of three doses in 24 h. If women did not abort in 24 h, the same regimen was repeated. The median induction-abortion interval in group 1 (15.2 h) was significantly shorter (P < 0.01) than that in the group 2 (19.0 h). The percentage of women who achieved successful abortion within 48 h in group 1 (90.5%) was also significantly higher (P < 0.02) than that in group 2 (75.7%). The incidence of fever was more common in group 1 (P = 0.01). It is concluded that the regimen of vaginal misoprostol 400 microg every 3 h with maximum of five doses in 24 h was more effective than the regimen of misoprostol every 6 h in termination of second trimester pregnancy. (+info)An abortifacient agent is a substance or drug that causes abortion by inducing the uterus to contract and expel a fetus. These agents can be chemical or herbal substances, and they work by interfering with the implantation of the fertilized egg in the uterine lining or by stimulating uterine contractions to expel the developing embryo or fetus.
Examples of abortifacient agents include misoprostol, mifepristone, and certain herbs such as pennyroyal, tansy, and black cohosh. It is important to note that the use of abortifacient agents can have serious health consequences, including infection, bleeding, and damage to the reproductive system. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before using any abortifacient agent.
I apologize for any confusion, but "Pinus ponderosa" is not a medical term. It is the scientific name for a species of pine tree commonly known as the western yellow pine or ponderosa pine. This tree is native to North America and is one of the most widely distributed pine species in the continent.
Here's a brief overview of its botanical characteristics:
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Pinophyta
Class: Pinopsida
Order: Pinales
Family: Pinaceae
Genus: Pinus
Species: P. ponderosa
The ponderosa pine is a large evergreen tree, reaching heights of 150-250 feet (46-76 meters) tall and trunk diameters up to 8 feet (2.4 meters). Its needle-like leaves are grouped in bundles of three, and its cones are long and slender, typically 3-6 inches (7.6-15.2 cm) in length.
If you have any questions related to medical terminology or healthcare topics, please feel free to provide them, and I'd be happy to help.
Non-steroidal abortifacient agents are medications or substances that can cause abortion by interfering with the normal functioning of the hormones in the reproductive system. These agents do not contain steroids and work primarily by preventing the implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus or by causing the shedding of the uterine lining, leading to the termination of an early pregnancy.
Examples of non-steroidal abortifacient agents include:
1. Mifepristone (RU-486): This medication works by blocking the action of progesterone, a hormone necessary for maintaining pregnancy. When used in combination with another medication called misoprostol, it can cause an abortion during the early stages of pregnancy.
2. Misoprostol: This medication is primarily used to prevent and treat stomach ulcers but can also be used as an abortifacient agent. It causes uterine contractions and cervical dilation, leading to the expulsion of the contents of the uterus.
3. High-dose estrogen and progestin: These hormones can interfere with the normal functioning of the reproductive system and cause an early abortion when taken in high doses.
4. Herbal remedies: Certain herbs, such as pennyroyal, tansy, and savin, have been used traditionally as abortifacient agents. However, their effectiveness and safety are not well-established, and they can cause serious side effects or even death when taken in large quantities.
It is important to note that the use of non-steroidal abortifacient agents for the purpose of inducing an abortion should only be done under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider, as there are potential risks and complications associated with their use. Additionally, some of these agents may be restricted or illegal in certain jurisdictions, so it is essential to comply with local laws and regulations regarding their use.
Abortifacient agents, steroidal, refer to a type of medication or substance that is capable of inducing abortion or causing the termination of pregnancy by interfering with the implantation and maintenance of the fertilized ovum (embryo) or the development of the placenta. Steroidal abortifacient agents are synthetic derivatives of steroids, which have a similar structure to naturally occurring hormones in the human body.
The most commonly used steroidal abortifacient agent is mifepristone, also known as RU-486. Mifepristone works by blocking the action of progesterone, a hormone that is essential for maintaining pregnancy. By blocking the action of progesterone, mifepristone causes the shedding of the uterine lining and the expulsion of the embryo or fetus from the uterus.
Steroidal abortifacient agents are typically used in the early stages of pregnancy, up to 10 weeks after the last menstrual period. They may be used alone or in combination with other medications, such as misoprostol, which helps to stimulate uterine contractions and expel the embryo or fetus from the uterus.
It is important to note that steroidal abortifacient agents are not the same as emergency contraceptives, which are used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse. Steroidal abortifacient agents are intended for use in cases where pregnancy has already occurred and is unwanted or poses a risk to the health of the mother or fetus.
Trichosanthin is a type II ribosome-inactivating protein (RIP) isolated from the root tuber of Chinese snake gourd, Trichosanthes kirilowii. It has been studied for its potential anti-cancer and anti-viral properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, it has been used to treat various ailments including skin diseases and gynecological conditions. However, it is important to note that trichosanthin can have toxic effects on the human body, particularly on the reproductive system, and its medical use is limited.
I. Definition:
An abortion in a veterinary context refers to the intentional or unintentional termination of pregnancy in a non-human animal before the fetus is capable of surviving outside of the uterus. This can occur spontaneously (known as a miscarriage) or be induced through medical intervention (induced abortion).
II. Common Causes:
Spontaneous abortions may result from genetic defects, hormonal imbalances, infections, exposure to toxins, trauma, or other maternal health issues. Induced abortions are typically performed for population control, humane reasons (such as preventing the birth of a severely deformed or non-viable fetus), or when the pregnancy poses a risk to the mother's health.
III. Methods:
Veterinarians may use various methods to induce abortion depending on the species, stage of gestation, and reason for the procedure. These can include administering drugs that stimulate uterine contractions (such as prostaglandins), physically removing the fetus through surgery (dilation and curettage or hysterectomy), or using techniques specific to certain animal species (e.g., intrauterine infusion of hypertonic saline in equids).
IV. Ethical Considerations:
The ethics surrounding veterinary abortions are complex and multifaceted, often involving considerations related to animal welfare, conservation, population management, and human-animal relationships. Veterinarians must weigh these factors carefully when deciding whether to perform an abortion and which method to use. In some cases, legal regulations may also influence the decision-making process.
V. Conclusion:
Abortion in veterinary medicine is a medical intervention that can be used to address various clinical scenarios, ranging from unintentional pregnancy loss to deliberate termination of pregnancy for humane or population control reasons. Ethical considerations play a significant role in the decision-making process surrounding veterinary abortions, and veterinarians must carefully evaluate each situation on a case-by-case basis.
Induced abortion is a medical procedure that intentionally terminates a pregnancy before the fetus can survive outside the womb. It can be performed either surgically or medically through the use of medications. The timing of an induced abortion is typically based on the gestational age of the pregnancy, with different methods used at different stages.
The most common surgical procedure for induced abortion is vacuum aspiration, which is usually performed during the first trimester (up to 12-13 weeks of gestation). This procedure involves dilating the cervix and using a vacuum device to remove the pregnancy tissue from the uterus. Other surgical procedures, such as dilation and evacuation (D&E), may be used in later stages of pregnancy.
Medical abortion involves the use of medications to induce the termination of a pregnancy. The most common regimen involves the use of two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone works by blocking the action of progesterone, a hormone necessary for maintaining pregnancy. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy tissue. This method is typically used during the first 10 weeks of gestation.
Induced abortion is a safe and common medical procedure, with low rates of complications when performed by trained healthcare providers in appropriate settings. Access to induced abortion varies widely around the world, with some countries restricting or prohibiting the practice entirely.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs) are a class of medications that reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. They work by inhibiting the activity of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are involved in the production of prostaglandins, chemicals that contribute to inflammation and cause blood vessels to dilate and become more permeable, leading to symptoms such as pain, redness, warmth, and swelling.
NSAIDs are commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including arthritis, muscle strains and sprains, menstrual cramps, headaches, and fever. Some examples of NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and celecoxib.
While NSAIDs are generally safe and effective when used as directed, they can have side effects, particularly when taken in large doses or for long periods of time. Common side effects include stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, and increased risk of heart attack and stroke. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about using NSAIDs.
Pregnancy is a physiological state or condition where a fertilized egg (zygote) successfully implants and grows in the uterus of a woman, leading to the development of an embryo and finally a fetus. This process typically spans approximately 40 weeks, divided into three trimesters, and culminates in childbirth. Throughout this period, numerous hormonal and physical changes occur to support the growing offspring, including uterine enlargement, breast development, and various maternal adaptations to ensure the fetus's optimal growth and well-being.