Barusiban and Atosiban evaluated for reducing luteal phase uterine contractions in oocyte donors

Excessive uterine contractions during the luteal phase can negatively impact embryo implantation and increase the risk of pregnancy loss in assisted reproductive technologies (ART). While progesterone supplementation is standard for luteal phase support, it may not fully mitigate uterine contractility. Oxytocin, a potent uterotonic hormone, plays a critical role in regulating uterine contractions. Antagonizing the oxytocin receptor (OTR) is a promising strategy to reduce these contractions, potentially improving outcomes for patients undergoing oocyte donation and embryo transfer. This study addresses the need for effective interventions to optimize the uterine environment.

This was a randomized, double-blind, parallel-groups, placebo-controlled, multi-center clinical trial. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of a selective oxytocin antagonist, Barusiban, and a mixed oxytocin-vasopressin V1a antagonist, Atosiban, on luteal phase uterine contractions. Both compounds were administered intravenously (IV) to oocyte donors who were also receiving progesterone supplementation. The primary endpoint was the reduction of uterine contractions, measured against a placebo control arm. The study design allowed for a direct comparison of a selective (OTR) antagonist versus a dual (OTR/V1a) antagonist.

This abstract describes the design and objectives of a randomized controlled trial but does not present any specific findings or numerical results regarding the effects of Barusiban or Atosiban on uterine contractions. The study aimed to compare these oxytocin antagonists to placebo in oocyte donors, but the outcomes of this comparison are not reported in the provided text. Therefore, no data on efficacy, safety, or statistical significance can be extracted from this abstract. The abstract serves as a protocol description rather than a results summary.