Ovulation Induction Medications (for Women)
Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid)
- Function: Clomid is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) that induces ovulation by blocking estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, leading to increased production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
- Use: Commonly prescribed for women with irregular ovulation or anovulation.
Letrozole (Femara)
- Function: Letrozole is an aromatase inhibitor that inhibits the production of estrogen, leading to increased FSH production and ovulation induction.
- Use: Often used in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or those who do not respond to Clomid.
Gonadotropins
- Function: Injectable medications containing FSH, LH, or a combination of both, which directly stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple follicles and eggs.
- Examples: Follistim, Gonal-F (FSH alone), Menopur (combined FSH and LH).
- Use: Used for ovarian stimulation in women undergoing IVF or IUI.
Ovulation Trigger Medications (for Women)
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)
- Function: hCG is an injectable hormone that triggers the final maturation of eggs and ovulation.
- Use: Administered after ovulation induction with gonadotropins or in preparation for timed intercourse or ART procedures.
Fertility Medications for ART (for Women)
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Agonists and Antagonists
- Function: GnRH agonists (e.g., Lupron) and antagonists (e.g., Cetrotide, Ganirelix) are used to prevent premature ovulation during ovarian stimulation for IVF or other ART procedures.
Progesterone
- Function: Progesterone supplementation supports embryo implantation and early pregnancy.
- Forms: Available as vaginal suppositories, injections, or oral medications.
- Use: Prescribed after ovulation induction or during the luteal phase of IVF cycles.
Fertility Medications for Male Factor Infertility (for Men)
Hormonal Therapies
- Function: Hormonal medications such as gonadotropins or hCG may stimulate sperm production in men with hypogonadism or low testosterone levels.
Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid)
- Function: Clomid may be prescribed off-label for men with low sperm count or poor sperm motility to stimulate sperm production.
Other Fertility Medications
Antioxidants
- Function: Antioxidant supplements containing vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients (e.g., vitamin E, vitamin C, coenzyme Q10, zinc) may improve sperm quality and reduce oxidative stress.
Metformin
- Function: Metformin, commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes, may be prescribed off-label to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate menstrual cycles in women with PCOS, promoting ovulation.
Conclusion
Fertility medications should be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare provider, typically a reproductive endocrinologist or fertility specialist, who will tailor the treatment plan to each individual's specific needs, diagnosis, and response to treatment. Patients should be informed about potential side effects, risks, and alternatives associated with fertility medications. Close monitoring throughout the treatment process ensures optimal safety and efficacy.
At Bliss IVF, our experienced team of fertility specialists is dedicated to providing personalized care and support to help you achieve your dream of parenthood. We are committed to guiding you through every step of your fertility treatment journey with compassion and expertise.
