Follitropin Beta Injection: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects Explained

Summary of Key Points

Follitropin Beta is a medication used to treat infertility and other reproductive health conditions, such as hypogonadism and ovarian dysfunction. It is a form of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) that helps stimulate the ovaries in women and promotes sperm production in men. Follitropin Beta is typically administered via injection and should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor before starting or adjusting your dose.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Follistim AQ (Follitropin Beta)

The generic name refers to the active ingredient in the medication, while the brand name is the marketed version. In this case, Follitropin Beta is the generic name.

Pharmacologic Category

Categories:

1. Gonadotropin
2. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Follitropin Beta Dosage

Follitropin Beta is used to treat various reproductive health conditions. Below are the recommended doses for each condition. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your dose. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers for personalized advice.

Infertility in Women

Initial Dose: 50-150 IU injected subcutaneously daily.

Frequency: Once daily.

Length of Treatment: Continue until adequate follicular development is achieved, typically 7-14 days.

Hypogonadism in Men

Initial Dose: 150 IU injected subcutaneously three times per week.

Frequency: Three times per week.

Length of Treatment: Treatment may continue for several months, depending on individual response.

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

Initial Dose: 50-150 IU injected subcutaneously daily.

Frequency: Once daily.

Length of Treatment: Continue until adequate follicular development is achieved, typically 7-14 days.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Initial Dose: 50-150 IU injected subcutaneously daily.

Frequency: Once daily.

Length of Treatment: Continue until adequate follicular development is achieved, typically 7-14 days.

Primary Ovarian Insufficiency

Initial Dose: 50-150 IU injected subcutaneously daily.

Frequency: Once daily.

Length of Treatment: Continue until adequate follicular development is achieved, typically 7-14 days.

Male Hypogonadism

Initial Dose: 150 IU injected subcutaneously three times per week.

Frequency: Three times per week.

Length of Treatment: Treatment may continue for several months, depending on individual response.

Anovulation

Initial Dose: 50-150 IU injected subcutaneously daily.

Frequency: Once daily.

Length of Treatment: Continue until adequate follicular development is achieved, typically 7-14 days.

Testicular Failure

Initial Dose: 150 IU injected subcutaneously three times per week.

Frequency: Three times per week.

Length of Treatment: Treatment may continue for several months, depending on individual response.

Endometriosis

Initial Dose: 50-150 IU injected subcutaneously daily.

Frequency: Once daily.

Length of Treatment: Continue until adequate follicular development is achieved, typically 7-14 days.

Ovarian Dysfunction

Initial Dose: 50-150 IU injected subcutaneously daily.

Frequency: Once daily.

Length of Treatment: Continue until adequate follicular development is achieved, typically 7-14 days.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Follitropin Beta is available as a solution for injection in the following strengths:

1. 300 IU/0.36 mL
2. 600 IU/0.72 mL
3. 900 IU/1.08 mL

Follitropin Beta Administration Instructions

Follitropin Beta is administered as a subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected just under the skin. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. If you are unsure how to inject the medication, ask for a demonstration or schedule a telemedicine appointment for guidance. Be sure to rotate injection sites to avoid irritation, and never reuse needles or syringes.

Follitropin Beta Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

Like all medications, Follitropin Beta can cause side effects. Some are common and mild, while others may be more serious. If you experience any side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss any concerns.

Common Side Effects

1. Headache: Mild discomfort in the head.
2. Abdominal Pain: Mild to moderate discomfort in the stomach area.
3. Injection Site Reactions: Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site.

Less Common Side Effects

1. Nausea: A sensation of feeling sick to your stomach.
2. Bloating: A feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen.
3. Breast Tenderness: Sensitivity or discomfort in the breast area.

Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention)

1. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): A potentially serious condition where the ovaries become swollen and painful.
2. Blood Clots: Symptoms may include swelling, pain, or redness in the legs, or difficulty breathing.
3. Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms may include swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or hives.

Contraindications for Follitropin Beta

A contraindication is a specific situation or condition where a medication should not be used because it could cause harm. For Follitropin Beta, there are several contraindications to be aware of. If you have any of the following conditions, discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting this medication.

1. Pregnancy: Follitropin Beta is not recommended during pregnancy as it stimulates ovulation, which is unnecessary once pregnancy occurs. Taking it during pregnancy could harm the developing fetus.
2. Uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction: These conditions can interfere with Follitropin Beta’s effectiveness and may worsen if not properly managed before starting treatment.
3. Primary ovarian failure: In cases of primary ovarian failure, the ovaries do not respond to gonadotropin stimulation, making Follitropin Beta ineffective.
4. Abnormal uterine bleeding of unknown origin: If you have unexplained bleeding, it’s important to identify the cause before using Follitropin Beta, as it could indicate a more serious condition.
5. Ovarian cysts or enlargement not due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Enlarged ovaries or ovarian cysts can increase the risk of complications when taking Follitropin Beta.
6. Hypersensitivity to Follitropin Beta or any of its components: If you have a known allergy to this medication or its ingredients, taking it could trigger a severe allergic reaction.
7. Breast, ovarian, or uterine cancer: Follitropin Beta can stimulate the growth of hormone-sensitive cancers, so it is contraindicated in patients with these types of cancer.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Follitropin Beta can interact with other medications, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the likelihood of side effects. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Clomiphene (Clomid): Often prescribed to stimulate ovulation, Clomiphene, when combined with Follitropin Beta, may increase the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH agonists) like Leuprolide (Lupron): These medications may be used alongside Follitropin Beta to control the timing of ovulation. However, they can also elevate the risk of OHSS and other side effects.

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) injections: hCG is commonly administered to trigger ovulation after Follitropin Beta treatment. However, using these together can further increase the risk of OHSS, necessitating close monitoring by your healthcare provider.

Follitropin Beta in Pregnancy

Is it safe to take Follitropin Beta when pregnant?

No, Follitropin Beta should not be used during pregnancy. This medication is intended to stimulate ovulation and is no longer needed once pregnancy is achieved. If you become pregnant while taking Follitropin Beta, discontinue the medication and contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Follitropin Beta while Breastfeeding

Is it safe to take Follitropin Beta while breastfeeding?

There is limited information on whether Follitropin Beta passes into breast milk. Since this medication is used for fertility treatment and breastfeeding may interfere with fertility, it is generally not recommended for women who are breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss your options if you are breastfeeding and considering fertility treatments.

Estimated Cost of Follitropin Beta

The cost of a 30-day supply of Follitropin Beta can vary depending on the dosage and the pharmacy. Without insurance, the estimated cost using a GoodRx coupon ranges from $1,000 to $3,000. Prices may differ, so it’s a good idea to check with your pharmacy or use a discount service like GoodRx for the most accurate pricing.

Possible Alternatives to Follitropin Beta

Several alternative treatments and lifestyle changes may help manage the conditions for which Follitropin Beta is prescribed. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to explore these options.

Infertility: Alternatives include other fertility medications such as Clomiphene (Clomid) or Letrozole (Femara). Assisted reproductive technologies, like in vitro fertilization (IVF), may also be considered. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight and reducing stress, can improve fertility outcomes.

Hypogonadism: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with testosterone or estrogen may be an alternative. Lifestyle modifications, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can also help manage symptoms.

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): Lowering the dose of fertility medications or using a “freeze-all” strategy (freezing embryos for later use) can help prevent OHSS. Close monitoring by your healthcare provider is essential.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and regular exercise, can help manage PCOS symptoms. Medications like Metformin (Glucophage) or Letrozole (Femara) may also be used to induce ovulation.

Primary Ovarian Insufficiency: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is often used to manage symptoms. In some cases, egg donation may be considered for women seeking pregnancy.

Male Hypogonadism: Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a common treatment. Lifestyle changes, such as improving diet and exercise habits, can also help manage symptoms.

Anovulation: Medications like Clomiphene (Clomid) or Letrozole (Femara) may be used to induce ovulation. Lifestyle changes, including weight management and stress reduction, can also improve ovulation.

Testicular Failure: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with testosterone may be an option. Assisted reproductive technologies, such as sperm donation, may be considered for men seeking to father children.

Endometriosis: Hormonal treatments, such as birth control pills or GnRH agonists, can help manage symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove endometrial tissue.

Ovarian Dysfunction: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or fertility treatments, such as IVF, may be considered. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight and reducing stress, can also improve ovarian function.

Recent Updates on Follitropin Beta Research

Recent studies have focused on optimizing Follitropin Beta dosing and administration to reduce the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and improve pregnancy outcomes. Researchers are also exploring the use of Follitropin Beta in combination with other fertility treatments to enhance success rates in women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Additionally, ongoing studies are investigating the long-term safety of Follitropin Beta in both women and men, particularly in relation to hormone-sensitive cancers.

As research continues to evolve, staying informed about the latest developments is important. If you have questions about whether Follitropin Beta is the right treatment for you, consider scheduling a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss your options.

James Kingsley

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