Guidelines for the Use of Menotropins Drug

Type of Drug

Gonadotropins; hormones that stimulate the ovaries and testes.
How the Drug Works

Menotropins are a combination of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). In women, menotropins stimulate the ovaries to produce mature eggs. Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is given after menotropins to stimulate ovulation. Menotropins stimulate sperm formation (spermatogenesis) in men who have a low sperm count due to decreased function of the pituitary gland.
Uses of The Menotropins

To induce ovulation in women who do not ovulate due to hormone problems. Menotropins are used in combination with HCG. Menotropins and HCG may be used to stimulate the development and release of multiple eggs in patients participating in an in vitro fertilization program.

To increase sperm count in men who have low sperm count due to hormone problems. Menotropins are used in combination with HCG.
Precautions

Before therapy: Women must have a thorough pelvic exam and testing of the endocrine glands. A cervical dilation and curettage (O and C) must be done before beginning therapy if there is abnormal uterine bleeding or other signs of endometrial disorders. The partner's fertility potential must also be evaluated by a doctor. Men should have their pituitary gland function evaluated.

Multiple births: Pregnancies following therapy with HCG and menotropins resulted in 80% single births, 15% twin births, and 5% of pregnancies resulted in 3 or more babies.

Over stimulation of the ovary: Mild to moderate ovarian enlargement, with or without bloating or stomach pain, may occur and generally goes away within 2 or 3 weeks after discontinuing this medicine. All patients who experience bloating or stomach pain should be examined for ovarian enlargement. If significant ovarian enlargement occurs after ovulation, do not engage in sexual intercourse.

Respiratory complications: Serious respiratory complications (eg, difficulty breathing) and blood clotting have been reported.

Pregnancy: Do not use during pregnancy. The risk of use in a pregnant woman clearly outweighs any possible benefit.

Breastfeeding: It is not known if menotropins appear in breast milk. Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.

Children: Safety and effectiveness have not been established.
Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or planning to take any over­the-counter or prescription medications or dietary supplements while taking this drug. Drug doses may need to be modified or a different drug prescribed.
Side Effects

Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many patients experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dose, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:

Digestive Tract: Nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; stomach pain or cramps; bloating.

Urinary and Reproductive Tract: Vaginal bleeding; pelvic pain; ovarian cysts; pregnancy; multiple births.

Other: Fever; chills; breast enlargement or pain (men); rash; muscle and joint pain; pain, rash, swelling, or irritation at injection site; headache; dizziness; excitation; difficult or quick, shallow breathing; rapid heartbeat; general body discomfort; swelling of the lower legs.
Guidelines for Usenn * Dosage is individualized. Use exactly as prescribed.
* Carefully follow the storage, preparation, administration, and disposal techniques taught to you by your health care provider.
* Visually inspect the solution for discoloration or particles. Use immediately after reconstitution (mixing). Discard any unused portion.
* If a dose is missed, inject it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless instructed by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed or it is necessary to establish a new dosage schedule, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
* Discontinue use and contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe pelvic pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weight gain, difficulty breathing, or decreased urination.
* Store refrigerated or at room temperature (37° to 77°F). Protect from light.
* Women - HCG must be given following menotropins when tests indicate mature eggs are present (eg, changes in vaginal smear or cervical mucus, urinary estrogen test).Ovulation is confirmed by testing for progesterone production (eg, rise in basal temperature, change in cervical mucus). The couple should have intercourse daily, beginning on the day prior to HCG administration, until ovulation occurs. Take care to ensure insemination. Intercourse should be prohibited in patients in whom significant ovarian enlargement occurs after ovulation. During treatment with menotropins and HCG and for 2 weeks after treatment, patients must be examined by a doctor at least every other day. Multiple pregnancy is possible and poses potential hazards.
* Men - HCG is first used alone prior to treatment with both menotropins and HCG.