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What is menotropins injection?

MENOTROPINS (Pergonal®, Humegon®, Menopur®, Repronex®), is a combination of two hormones, called follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Both of these hormones occur naturally in both men and women, and help with fertility. In men, these hormones can help stimulate the development of sperm. In women, these hormones stimulate the development of eggs within the ovary. To increase a woman's chance of getting pregnant, menotropins are used in combination with other fertility drugs. Menotropins are also used for in vitro fertilization ('test tube baby') programs. Menotropins are also known by the name 'HMG'. Generic menotropins injections are not yet available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• benign pituitary tumor
• cyst on the ovary
• ovarian failure
• testicular failure
• thyroid disease
• vaginal or unusual bleeding
• an unusual or allergic reaction to menotropins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant (this medicine should not be used if you are already pregnant)
• breast feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Menotropins are usually for injection into a muscle, like the thigh or buttocks. Some injections, like Repronex® or Menopur® are usually given under the skin instead.

For men: Depending on how the menotropins will be used, the length of treatment, and your comfort, your health care professional may teach you how to give your own injections. Otherwise the injections will be given by a trained health care professional in the prescriber's office, clinic, or by home health care.

For women receiving infertility treatments: The menotropins injection may be given by a health care professional during the days indicated by the doctor, or you may be taught how to give your own injections at home. Follow the directions your fertility doctor exactly. Your fertility specialist will explain the needed procedures.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

For men: Try not to miss a dose. If you are giving your own injections, and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you forget until the next day, skip the missed dose and continue with your schedule. Do not use double or extra doses. Call your prescriber if you have any questions.

For women receiving infertility treatments: It is important not to miss a dose, as the success of your fertility treatments depends on proper use of this medication, and fertility treatments are expensive. Call your prescriber or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment. If you are giving your own injections, do not use double or extra doses. Call your prescriber if you have any questions.

What drug(s) may interact with menotropins?

• herbal or dietary supplements, like blue cohosh, black cohosh, or chasteberry

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking menotropins?

For women on fertility treatments:
Your prescriber or health care professional must closely monitor you.

If you are a woman receiving menotropins to help you get pregnant, it is important to keep all records required by your health care professional on body temperature and intercourse, and to carefully follow any directions for urine or blood testing or ultrasound exams. If you think you have become pregnant, contact your prescriber at once.

Menotropins increase your chances of having multiple babies, like twins or triplets.

Drinking alcoholic beverages or smoking tobacco may decrease some person's chances of becoming pregnant. Talk with your health care professional about not drinking alcohol and decreasing tobacco use during your fertility treatments.

For men:
Your prescriber or health care professional must closely monitor you. Notify your prescriber if you notice any unusual effects from this medication.

What side effects may I notice from receiving menotropins?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
Any symptoms of rare allergic reactions:
• difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• fever, chills or joint or muscle aches
• itching
• skin rash or hives
• swelling of the areas of the face, mouth or throat

For women on fertility treatments:
• chest pain, sudden shortness of breath
• difficulty breathing
• indigestion
• nausea, vomiting
• passing small amounts of urine
• stomach area or pelvic pain or bloating
• swelling of any area of the body
• rapid weight gain

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• breast enlargement in men
• breast tenderness
• dizziness
• headache
• mild pain, redness, itching, or inflammation at the injection site
• tiredness

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

The injection powder should be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature between 3—25°C (37—77°F). Do not freeze. Protect from direct light. After mixing the injection, use the injection solution immediately and throw away any unused portion. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date; ask your health care professional about the proper disposal of used syringes.

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.