Indications
Recombinant Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Alfa (choriogonadotropin alfa, rHCG) is a fertility hormone. It is used in assisted reproduction (such as IVF) to trigger the final ripening of eggs and their release after the ovaries have been stimulated, and to trigger ovulation in women who do not ovulate regularly. It is used only under the care of a fertility specialist.
How It Works
rHCG is a laboratory-made copy of the hormone hCG. It acts like the natural hormone LH (luteinising hormone), which normally rises just before ovulation. A single injection signals the mature follicles in the ovary to complete egg development and release the egg about 36 hours later. It also helps support the corpus luteum, which produces hormones needed early in pregnancy.
Dosage and Administration
Given as an injection under the skin, usually as a single dose, at the exact time set by the fertility specialist based on ultrasound scans and blood tests. The dose and timing are as prescribed. The injection is given by a doctor or nurse, or by the patient after proper training.
Interactions
No important drug interactions are known. It can affect pregnancy tests for up to about 10 days after the injection, giving a false positive result. Tell your doctor about all medicines you use.
Contraindications
Not for use in people allergic to hCG or any ingredient; tumours of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus; tumours of the ovary, breast, uterus or other sex organs; unexplained vaginal bleeding; ovarian cysts or enlarged ovaries not caused by polycystic ovary syndrome; early menopause; malformations of the sex organs or fibroids that make pregnancy impossible; or recent blood clots.
Side Effects
Common side effects include pain, redness or bruising at the injection site, headache, tiredness, nausea, stomach pain and bloating. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), where the ovaries swell and fluid collects in the belly, can occur. Multiple pregnancy (twins or more) and ectopic pregnancy are more likely with fertility treatment.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe stomach pain or swelling, sudden weight gain, severe nausea or vomiting, passing very little urine, shortness of breath, pain or swelling in a leg, or signs of a severe allergic reaction.
Pregnancy and Lactation
It is used to help achieve pregnancy and is not used once a pregnancy is confirmed. It is not used during breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
Treatment should be closely monitored with scans and blood tests. Thyroid and adrenal problems and raised prolactin should be checked and treated before starting. Women with risk factors for blood clots need extra care. Do not use this hormone for weight loss: it does not work for that and can be harmful.
Overdose
Too much may cause ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Contact the fertility clinic or a doctor straight away if symptoms appear.
Therapeutic Class
Gonadotropin (fertility hormone).
Storage
Store as directed on the pack, usually in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C; do not freeze. Keep in the original pack to protect from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.