Treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding of endometrial origin: randomized controlled trial of medroxyprogesterone acetate and tranexamic acid

Abstract

This study aimed at comparing the efficacy of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) and tranexamic acid (TA) for treating heavy menstrual bleeding of endometrial origin (HMB). A randomized controlled trial was carried out in three gynecology clinics in Tehran, Iran. Ninety women with the HMB of endometrial origin were randomized into the study: 44 patients took MPA for 21 days from day 5 and 46 patients took tranexamic acid for 5 days from day 1 of menses for three consecutive menstrual cycles. Blood loss was measured using the pictorial blood loss assessment chart (PBAC); hematological assessments were made before intervention and after treatment. SF-36 and HMB Questionnaire (MQ) were given to assess quality of life. Statistical analysis was performed using t test, Paired t test, χ(2), Mann-Whitney, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and repeated measure analysis. PBLC mean score, duration of bleeding and Hb values as well as quality of life were significantly improved in both groups (P < 0.05). But there was no significant deference between groups. More drug complication and less satisfaction were reported by MPA group (P = 0.003 and P = 0.002, respectively). Long-term use of MPA is as effective as Tranexamic acid in treating HMB and increasing quality of life. However, bleeding irregularity side effects of MPA might limit its use.