The comparison of two gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists in an in vitro fertilization program.

OBJECTIVE

To compare two gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH-a), buserelin acetate and leuprolide acetate [LA], used in combination with gonadotropins in ovarian stimulation for in vitro fertilization (IVF).

DESIGN

Randomized prospective study.

SETTING

Assisted Reproduction Unit of the Hospital Clínic i Provincial in Barcelona.

PATIENTS

Thirty-five pairs of IVF patients who were matched on age, indication, and number of attempts. These women were randomized to receive either buserelin acetate plus gonadotropins (group B) or LA plus gonadotropins (group L).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Luteolysis, ovarian response, and IVF outcome.

RESULTS

The mean time for total ovarian arrest and the total dose of gonadotropins and estradiol levels on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin administration were similar in the two groups of patients. The number of follicles punctured, the number of oocytes retrieved, and the percentage of mature oocytes in group L were significantly higher. The number of embryos suitable for replacement and cryopreservation was higher in group L compared with group B approaching statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

Our results warrant further studies to compare different GnRH-a as therapeutic tools in IVF.