The initial experience with the use of a portable infusion pump in the delivery of human menopausal gonadotropins

The initial experience with the use of a portable infusion pump for the delivery of human menopausal gonadotropins (hMG) in the therapy of ovulation dysfunction of women who failed to conceive following (1) either clomiphene citrate (five patients with polycystic ovary syndrome) or danazol (three patients with mild endometriosis) and (2) standard intramuscular hMG-human chorionic gonadotropin therapy is reported. In six of these patients this approach was used because of suboptimal response of serum estradiol levels to standard hMG therapy, and all six patients had an increase in estradiol response with infusion therapy; therapy duration and total dosage of hMG were similar in both treatment modalities. Sonography suggested stimulation of several follicles with infusion therapy. Advantages and disadvantages of the use of the infusion pump for hMG therapy are discussed. In conclusion, hMG therapy via the infusion pump is feasible. This mode of administration appears to lead to more satisfactory follicular development in selected patients. Multiple follicular stimulation is to be expected. Self-administration of medication is readily achieved by the educated patient. Further consideration and exploration of hMG infusion therapy is suggested.