Quinacrine sterilization in Libya: 200 cases.
OBJECTIVE: Document the safety, effectiveness and acceptability of quinacrine sterilization (QS) as an alternative to surgical sterilization in Libyan women. METHODS: This study was initiated 1 October 1998 at the Misurata Central Hospital and Lamis Clinic. Patient intake was completed 30 September 2002. The cut-off date for this analysis was 31 December 2002. A total of 200 women were given 2 doses, each consisting of 252 mg of quinacrine hydrochloride in the form of 7 pellets inserted one month apart. They were placed at the uterine fundus during the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle using a modified IUD inserter. Women were asked to report any unusual observations or side effects and instructed to use a barrier method or safe period for one month from the time of the first insertion. Follow-up was scheduled at 3, 6 and 12 months after the date of the second insertion and every 6 months thereafter. RESULTS: Sixty-six women have been monitored for up to 3 years and follow-up of all patients continues. There has been no loss to follow-up. No side effects of any consequence have been reported. Thus far, no pregnancies have been reported for this protocol. CONCLUSIONS: Findings in this study are consistent with those seen in other countries. QS has been shown to be safe, effective and acceptable among Libyan women.