Gonadotropins

Gonadotropins are a group of fertility drugs that are used to stimulate ovulation. These drugs consist of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), either alone or in combination. The trade names of some of the commonly used gonadotropins include Gonal-F, Follistim, Repronex, Bravelle and Luveris. These are powerful and potentially dangerous drugs that should only be prescribed by physicians who have extensive experience using them.

Gonadotropins are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, usually in the context of an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle. They are also sometimes used to stimulate multiple eggs to develop in women who are not undergoing IVF, but are doing intrauterine inseminations (IUI’s). Gonadotropins may be used to induce ovulation in women who have failed to ovulate despite maximum doses of clomiphene. Women who are taking these drugs must be carefully monitored with serial blood tests and ultrasounds. The main side effect of gonadotropin use is multiple births. There is also a risk of ovarian hyperstimulation. Women who conceive while taking these drugs have approximately a 30% chance of having more than one baby. While most multiples are twins, triplets and higher order gestations occasionally occur with the use of these drugs.

If you are a candidate for gonadotropin therapy, your doctor will discuss these issues with you in greater detail.