Fertility Medications in IVF Treatment

Fertility injections play a crucial role in IVF treatment, helping to stimulate and control egg production. These medications fall into three main categories:

Follicle Stimulating Medications

Medications such as Gonal-F, Puregon, Menopur, Rekovelle, and Pergoveris help develop and mature follicles containing eggs. These are administered through subcutaneous injections according to a carefully planned schedule.

Resources (PDF):

• Menopur
• Gonal F & Puregon
• Rekovelle
• Pergoveris
• Growth Hormone

Ovulation Prevention Medications

Orgalutran, Cetrotide, and Decapeptyl prevent premature egg release, ensuring optimal timing for egg collection. These medications are essential for maintaining control over the IVF cycle.

Resources (PDF):

• Orgalutran
• Cetrotide
• Decapeptyl

Trigger Medications

Ovidrel triggers the final maturation of eggs before collection.

Resources (PDF):

• Gonasi
• Decapeptyl
• Ovidrel

Important Considerations

• Injections are typically administered subcutaneously (just under the skin)
• Injection sites should be rotated to minimise skin irritation
• Common side effects include nausea, abdominal discomfort, and injection site reactions
• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) may occur, presenting symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, bloating, or breathing difficulties

Storage and Administration

• Medications require specific storage conditions as per package instructions
• Missed doses should be reported immediately to your healthcare team
• Used needles should be disposed of safely in appropriate containers

Your fertility team will provide comprehensive training on injection techniques and monitoring throughout the treatment cycle.