Drug Guide

Generic Name

Menotropins

Brand Names Pergonal, Humegon, Repronex, Menopur

Classification

Therapeutic: Infertility agent

Pharmacological: Gonadotropin

FDA Approved Indications

  • Treatment of infertility in women with ovulatory dysfunction
  • Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for IVF

Mechanism of Action

Menotropins contain both FSH and LH, which stimulate the development of ovarian follicles and induce ovulation.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Dose varies based on indication and response; typically, starting doses range from 75-150 IU daily, adjusted based on ovarian response.

Pediatric: Not indicated for pediatric use.

Geriatric: Use not generally recommended due to limited experience; monitor closely if used.

Renal Impairment: Adjustments not well established; use with caution.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; limited data.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Intramuscular or subcutaneous administration, absorption varies.

Distribution: Distributed in extracellular fluids.

Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver and other tissues.

Excretion: Excreted via urine.

Half Life: Approximately 4-8 hours, varies depending on formulation and route.

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy (except for pregnancy induction)
  • Ovarian cysts or ovarian enlargement of unknown etiology
  • Hormone-sensitive tumors

Precautions

  • Monitor for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
  • Use with caution in women with endocrine disorders or abnormal uterine bleeding.

Adverse Reactions - Common

  • Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) (Rare but serious)
  • Multiple pregnancies (Increased risk)
  • Pain at injection site (Common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

  • Ovarian torsion or rupture (Rare)
  • Thromboembolic events (Rare)
  • Allergic reactions (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

  • Androgens, corticosteroids (may affect ovarian response)
  • GnRH agonists or antagonists (used in assisted reproduction protocols)

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor ovarian response via ultrasound and hormone levels.

Diagnoses:

  • Risk for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
  • Risk for multiple pregnancies

Implementation: Administer as prescribed, monitor for side effects, educate patient on signs of complications.

Evaluation: Assess follicular development and ovulation response.

Patient/Family Teaching

  • Report severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or swelling.
  • Inform about the signs and risks of OHSS and multiple pregnancies.
  • Advise on proper injection technique and schedule.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

  • Multiple pregnancies and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (high risk with gonadotropins)

Genetic Factors: Genetic factors can influence ovarian response.

Lab Test Interference: May affect hormone levels; interpret tests accordingly.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Severe ovarian hyperstimulation, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting.

Treatment: Discontinue drug, provide supportive care, manage OHSS, hospitalization if necessary.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Refrigerate, protected from light.

Stability: Vial stability varies; check manufacturer information.

This guide is for educational purposes only and is not intended for clinical use.