D-Trp-6-luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone microcapsules in the treatment of uterine leiomyomas.

Long acting D-Trp-6-luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LH-RH) microcapsules, 3.2 mg were given monthly, intramuscularly for a period of 6 months to 26 menstruating patients with symptomatic leiomyomas. The patients ages were 22 to 52 years. Five patients (20%) were infertile. Patient evaluation before initiation of treatment included endometrial biopsy, ultrasonic measurements of uterine and tumor volumes, and bone-mineral density. The patients were periodically followed hormonally and ultrasonographically. A statistically significant reduction in uterine and tumor volumes (maximal after 4 months of treatment) was observed in all the patients except one. Two patients discontinued the treatment after 2 months, preferring surgery. A nonsignificant decrease in the mean bone-mineral density was noted after completion of therapy. Minor side effects such as hot flushes, vaginal dryness, backache, vaginal spotting, and nervousness, were encountered frequently, disappearing within 6 weeks after the last injection. A significant increase in uterine and myoma volume was noted in all the patients at 3 months after treatment.