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Human Menopausal Gonadotropin: Uses, Dosing & Fertility Benefits
Summary of Key Points
Human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) is a fertility medication used to treat various reproductive conditions, including infertility, hypogonadism, and ovarian dysfunction. It works by stimulating the ovaries or testes to produce eggs or sperm and is commonly used in assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). Always consult a healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. Consider scheduling a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers for personalized care.
Names of Medication
US Brand Name: Menopur, Repronex
Generic Name: Human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG)
The generic name is the official medical name of a drug, not tied to a specific brand. In this case, the generic name is listed in parentheses.
Pharmacologic Category
Gonadotropins
Follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH)
Luteinizing hormones (LH)
Dosing for Human Menopausal Gonadotropin
Human menopausal gonadotropin is used to treat several reproductive conditions, and dosing varies depending on the specific condition being treated. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and never adjust your dose without consulting a healthcare provider. You can schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss your treatment plan.
Infertility (Female)
Initial Dose: 75-150 IU injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly daily.
Frequency: Once daily, adjusted based on ovarian response.
Length of Treatment: Typically 7-12 days, but may vary depending on individual response.
Hypogonadism (Male)
Initial Dose: 75-150 IU injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly three times per week.
Frequency: Three times per week.
Length of Treatment: Treatment may continue for several months to achieve the desired sperm production.
Ovarian Dysfunction
Initial Dose: 75-150 IU injected subcutaneously daily.
Frequency: Once daily, adjusted based on ovarian response.
Length of Treatment: Typically 7-12 days, but may vary depending on individual response.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Initial Dose: 75 IU injected subcutaneously daily.
Frequency: Once daily, adjusted based on ovarian response.
Length of Treatment: Typically 7-12 days, but may vary depending on individual response.
Anovulation
Initial Dose: 75-150 IU injected subcutaneously daily.
Frequency: Once daily, adjusted based on ovarian response.
Length of Treatment: Typically 7-12 days, but may vary depending on individual response.
Testicular Failure
Initial Dose: 75-150 IU injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly three times per week.
Frequency: Three times per week.
Length of Treatment: Treatment may continue for several months to achieve the desired sperm production.
Ovulatory Disorders
Initial Dose: 75-150 IU injected subcutaneously daily.
Frequency: Once daily, adjusted based on ovarian response.
Length of Treatment: Typically 7-12 days, but may vary depending on individual response.
Male Infertility
Initial Dose: 75-150 IU injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly three times per week.
Frequency: Three times per week.
Length of Treatment: Treatment may continue for several months to achieve the desired sperm production.
Endometriosis
Initial Dose: 75-150 IU injected subcutaneously daily.
Frequency: Once daily, adjusted based on ovarian response.
Length of Treatment: Typically 7-12 days, but may vary depending on individual response.
Premature Ovarian Insufficiency
Initial Dose: 75-150 IU injected subcutaneously daily.
Frequency: Once daily, adjusted based on ovarian response.
Length of Treatment: Typically 7-12 days, but may vary depending on individual response.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Injection: 75 IU per vial
Injection: 150 IU per vial
Administration Instructions for hMG Injections
Human menopausal gonadotropin is administered as an injection, either subcutaneously (under the skin) or intramuscularly (into the muscle). Your healthcare provider will show you how to properly inject the medication. It is important to rotate injection sites to avoid irritation. Follow the prescribed schedule and dosage. If you miss a dose, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers for further assistance.
Contraindications for Human Menopausal Gonadotropin
A contraindication is a specific situation or condition where a medication should not be used because it may cause harm. If you have any of the following conditions, you should not take Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (hMG). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication, and if you have any of these conditions, discuss them with one of our telemedicine providers.
Pregnancy: hMG is not recommended during pregnancy as it stimulates ovulation, which is unnecessary once pregnancy occurs. Taking hMG during pregnancy could lead to complications.
Uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal disorders: These conditions can interfere with how your body responds to hMG, making treatment less effective or potentially harmful.
Ovarian cysts or enlargement: If you have abnormal ovarian growths or cysts, hMG can worsen these conditions, potentially leading to ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a serious condition.
Primary ovarian failure: In cases where the ovaries no longer function properly (such as in premature ovarian insufficiency), hMG is ineffective because the ovaries cannot respond to hormone stimulation.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding: If the cause of your bleeding is unknown, hMG should not be used until the underlying issue is diagnosed, as it could worsen conditions like uterine cancer.
Hormone-sensitive cancers: If you have a history of breast, ovarian, or uterine cancer, hMG may stimulate the growth of these cancers due to its effects on hormone levels.
Drug to Drug Interactions with Human Menopausal Gonadotropin
Certain medications can interact with Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (hMG), potentially reducing its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products. Below are some medications that may interact with hMG:
- Clomiphene (Clomid): Commonly used to stimulate ovulation, combining it with hMG could increase the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
- Gonadorelin (Factrel): This medication is used to test pituitary function. When taken with hMG, it may alter hormone levels and affect test results.
- Leuprolide (Lupron): Often prescribed for hormone-sensitive conditions like endometriosis, using it alongside hMG may cause unpredictable hormone fluctuations.
- Cabergoline (Dostinex): Used to treat high prolactin levels, taking it with hMG may impact ovulation and disrupt hormone balance.
Human Menopausal Gonadotropin in Pregnancy
Is it Safe to Take Human Menopausal Gonadotropin During Pregnancy?
No, it is not safe to take Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (hMG) during pregnancy. hMG is designed to stimulate ovulation and assist in fertility treatments, but once pregnancy is achieved, it is no longer necessary. Continuing hMG during pregnancy could lead to complications. If you suspect you are pregnant while taking hMG, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Human Menopausal Gonadotropin While Breastfeeding
Is it Safe to Take Human Menopausal Gonadotropin While Breastfeeding?
There is limited information on the safety of hMG while breastfeeding. Since hMG affects hormone levels, it may interfere with milk production or pass into breast milk, potentially impacting your baby. It is important to discuss breastfeeding with your healthcare provider before starting hMG. If you are breastfeeding and considering fertility treatments, our telemedicine providers can help you explore safe options.
Estimated Cost of Human Menopausal Gonadotropin
The cost of Human Menopausal Gonadotropin can vary depending on the pharmacy and location. Without insurance, the estimated cost for a 30-day supply of hMG using a GoodRx coupon ranges from $1,200 to $2,500. Prices may differ, so it’s advisable to check with your pharmacy or use a discount program like GoodRx to find the best price.
Possible Alternatives to Human Menopausal Gonadotropin
If you are considering alternatives to Human Menopausal Gonadotropin, there are other treatments and lifestyle changes that may help manage your condition. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Our telemedicine providers are available to help you explore these alternatives.
- Infertility: Alternatives include medications like Clomiphene (Clomid) or Letrozole (Femara) to stimulate ovulation. In vitro fertilization (IVF) and lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight and reducing stress, may also improve fertility.
- Hypogonadism: Testosterone replacement therapy or other hormone treatments may be used to address hypogonadism in men. Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, can also help manage symptoms.
- Ovarian Dysfunction: Treatment options may include hormone therapy or medications like Clomiphene to stimulate ovulation. A healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and stress management, can support ovarian health.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Alternatives include Metformin (Glucophage) to improve insulin sensitivity, or lifestyle changes such as weight loss, regular exercise, and a balanced diet to manage symptoms.
- Anovulation: Medications like Clomiphene or Letrozole may be used to induce ovulation. Weight management and stress reduction can also help regulate menstrual cycles.
- Testicular Failure: Hormone replacement therapy, such as testosterone, may be used to manage symptoms. In some cases, assisted reproductive technologies like IVF may be considered for fertility.
- Ovulatory Disorders: Treatment options include ovulation-stimulating medications like Clomiphene or Letrozole. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight and managing stress, can also improve ovulatory function.
- Male Infertility: Treatment may include hormone therapy, lifestyle changes (such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake), or assisted reproductive technologies like IVF.
- Endometriosis: Treatment options include medications like Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists or surgery to remove endometrial tissue. Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, may help manage symptoms.
- Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be used to manage symptoms. In some cases, IVF with donor eggs may be considered for fertility.
Recent Updates on Human Menopausal Gonadotropin Research
Recent research on Human Menopausal Gonadotropin has focused on improving its effectiveness in fertility treatments and reducing the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Studies are exploring the use of lower doses of hMG in combination with other medications to minimize side effects while maintaining its ability to stimulate ovulation. Additionally, ongoing research is investigating personalized treatment protocols based on individual hormone levels and genetic factors to improve outcomes for patients undergoing fertility treatments.
As research continues, it is important to stay informed about the latest developments. Our telemedicine providers can help you understand how new findings may impact your treatment plan and whether any changes are recommended based on the latest evidence.
