An overview of treatments for endometriosis

JAMA. 2015 Jan 20;313(3):296-7. doi: 10.1001/jama.2014.17119.

Abstract

Clinical question: What treatments are associated with improved outcomes for women with endometriosis?

Bottom line: The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUD), gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues (GnRHa; nafarelin, leuprolide, buserelin, goserelin, triptorelin), laparoscopic ablation, and excision are associated with relief of pain due to endometriosis. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues and laparoscopic ablation or excision are associated with increased clinical pregnancy rates in women with endometriosis. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues, danazol, and depot progestagens are associated with a higher incidence of adverse events.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Endometriosis / drug therapy*
  • Endometriosis / surgery*
  • Female
  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone / analogs & derivatives*
  • Humans
  • Levonorgestrel / therapeutic use*
  • Pelvic Pain / etiology
  • Pelvic Pain / therapy

Substances

  • Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone
  • Levonorgestrel