Repronex is injectable medication made by a process of extracting hormones from the urine of postmenopausal women. It contains menotropin, a purified preparation of gonadotropins containing the hormones follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). These hormones are essential components for women who want to become pregnant as Repronex stimulates healthy ovaries to make eggs.
A patient’s doctor may prescribe more than one medicine, such as the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), also used to increase the chances of pregnancy by bringing about growth and the eventual release of a mature egg (ovulation). Repronex is not intended to be used by women with primary ovarian failure, no longer able to make eggs.
How to Use Repronex
Repronex is meant to be injected subcutaneously (under the skin) or intramuscularly (into a muscle). This medication is to be used exactly as directed by a doctor, who will train you beforehand on the proper procedure for administration. The dosage and length of treatment are determined by your response to the medication, as well as your medical condition and to any other medication you may be taking.
Each vial of Repronex contains 75 IU of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) activity and 75 IU of luteinizing hormone (LH) activity. Follow all instructions for proper mixing with the correct fluid provided with this medication. Use the solution immediately after the medication is mixed. Before using, check the solution visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid, and discard any unused solution.
It is recommended by the Repronex manufacturer that a patient’s dose not exceed 450 IU daily, and also that the medication not be used for more than 12 days per treatment cycle. It is very important not to change the dose or to use Repronex longer than prescribed by your healthcare professional.
The most common side effects associated with Repronex are headaches, stomach pain, and upset stomach. Sometimes there is an injection-site reaction that can cause bruising, pain, or redness. That is why it is important to change the site of injection daily.
Repronex may also cause some serious side effects. A small number of women experience ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which may lead to over stimulation of the ovaries. OHSS can cause pelvic pain, breathing problems, or may cause you to urinate less. In rare cases, patients may even develop serious lung problems. You should call your doctor if you begin to show symptoms of OHSS, such as: severe pelvic pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sudden weight gain, trouble breathing, decreased or no urination.
Repronex also may cause multiple births, twins being the most common.
References
Drugs & Medications – repronex inj. (2005-2014). Retrieved from www.webmd.com: http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-17977-repronex+inj.aspx
menotropins – injection, Repronex. (2014, April 16). Retrieved from www.medicinenet.com: http://www.medicinenet.com/menotropins-injection/page2.htm#SideEffects
REPRONEX®. (2012, June 14). Retrieved from www.ferringfertility.com: https://www.ferringfertility.com/downloads/repronexpi.pdf
