Home Drug Guide Urofollitropin

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Urofollitropin

Brand Names Metrodin, Fertinex, Bravelle

Classification

Therapeutic: Fertility agent

Pharmacological: Gonadotropin

FDA Approved Indications

Induction of ovulation and superovulation in women with ovarian failure or dysfunction

Mechanism of Action

Urofollitropin contains purified follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles in women and spermatogenesis in men.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Dose varies based on ovarian response, typically 75-225 IU daily for 5-12 days, administered via deep subcutaneous or intramuscular injection.

Pediatric: Not typically used in pediatric populations.

Geriatric: Use with caution; no specific dosage adjustments, but response can be diminished in older women.

Renal Impairment: No specific adjustments, but monitor response.

Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustments. Caution advised due to limited data.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Absorbed via injection (parenteral).

Distribution: Distributed in extracellular fluid; crossing of the blood-brain barrier is minimal.

Metabolism: Metabolized by the liver and kidneys.

Excretion: Excreted primarily via the kidneys.

Half Life: Approximately 6-8 hours, but varies depending on individual response.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to FSH or other components.
Ovarian tumors or estrogen-dependent tumors.
Pregnancy (except in controlled ovarian stimulation).

Precautions

Monitor ovarian response to avoid hyperstimulation.
Evaluate for cysts or tumors before therapy.

Adverse Reactions - Common

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) (Rare but serious)
Multiple pregnancies (Increased risk)
Injection site reactions (Common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome with thromboembolism, kidney failure (Rare)
Allergic reactions: rash, urticaria, bronchospasm (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

Corticosteroids may increase ovarian response.
Other gonadotropins may increase risk of hyperstimulation.

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor ovarian response via ultrasound and estrogen levels; assess for signs of OHSS.

Diagnoses:

Risk for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
Anxiety related to fertility treatments

Implementation: Administer as prescribed, typically daily injections; monitor for adverse reactions.

Evaluation: Assess ovarian response, occurrence of adverse effects, pregnancy status.

Patient/Family Teaching

Report pain, swelling, or shortness of breath.
Inform about risk of multiple pregnancy and hyperstimulation syndrome.
Administer injections as instructed, maintaining sterile technique.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

Risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), potentially life-threatening.
Multiple gestations with associated risk.

Genetic Factors: N/A

Lab Test Interference: N/A

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, multiple pregnancies.

Treatment: Discontinue drug, hospitalization if needed, manage symptoms, supportive care.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Refrigerate at 2-8°C, protect from light.

Stability: Stable until expiration date if kept refrigerated, generally 3 years.