GONADOTROPIN

Gonadotropin is an antineoplastic medicine belonging to the class of luteinizing hormone analogues. It received FDA approval in 1974 for the treatment of infertility in women.

Gonadotropin is used to treat undescended testicles and hypogonadism in men. It is also used to treat infertility in women.

This injection will be administered into the muscle or under the skin. Do not self-administer this medicine. The dose of the injection will be decided by your doctor based on your disease condition and other factors. Gonadotropin injection usually comes in vials containing a powder. The powder must be mixed with sterile water or bacteriostatic water before injection. After the injection, the healthcare provider may apply pressure to the injection site to help reduce any discomfort or swelling in the injected area.

The common side effects that are likely to occur with this injection are pain, redness, swelling at the site of injection, headache, tiredness, depression, fluid retention. Inform your healthcare provider if these side effects concern you or persist for longer than usual. This medicine may increase the risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. If you get lower abdominal pain, gain any weight rapidly, and have difficulty in breathing, consult with your doctor.

Gonadotropin is not recommended for pregnant women, because it may harm the developing fetus. If you have a medical history of blood clots, heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease this injection should be used with caution by your healthcare professionals. In case you're allergic to this injection, report with your doctor immediately.

It is not known whether Gonadotropin can be administered to patients with lung problems. Consult your doctor if you have any lung diseases before starting the treatment. This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. It is unsafe to drive vehicles or operate heavy machinery after taking this Injection because Gonadotropin contains a small amount of alcohol which may cause dizziness and impair your concentration.

Gonadotropin may harm a developing fetus or nursing infant; discuss contraception options and avoid breastfeeding during treatment. Fatigue is common with this medication; patients should prioritise adequate rest and self-care throughout the treatment course. Gonadotropin increases bleeding and bruising risk; caution is advised when handling sharp objects or engaging in activities with injury potential. Store the injection in a refrigerator at 2°–8°C. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Administer the dose at the scheduled time. If a dose is missed, contact your doctor to reschedule.

Merck Europe BV, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [Revised on October 2020] [ Accessed on 16th March 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5527.pdf APP Pharmaceuticals, LLC, US Food and Drug Administration, [Revised on April 2011] [ Accessed on 16th March 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/017067s057lbl.pdf Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Introduction to endocrinology: The hypothalamic-pituitary axis, 12th edition, 2011, 1123. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Anterior pituitary hormones, 7th edition, 2013, 241.