Gonadotropins are injectable hormones that stimulate the development of multiple ovarian follicles so that multiple eggs can be retrieved from the ovaries. Gonadotropins consist of a mixture of the natural hormones FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone), or contain FSH alone. Commonly used gonadotropin preparations include Repronex, Gonal F, Follistim, Bravelle, and Menopur. Gonadotropin medications are generally injected under the skin (subcutaneously).
One, or a combination, of medications is administered at about the same time each night or twice per day. Of the pregnancies that result from gonadotropin treatment, approximately 33% are multiple. Side effects most commonly include bloating, abdominal distention, nausea, breast tenderness, and fatigue.
