Gonal F (Folitropin Alpha)

Description

Indications

This medication comprises follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and is prescribed for addressing specific fertility issues in women. Follitropin alfa actively encourages the ovaries to produce eggs, fostering their healthy development. This medication is usually employed alongside another hormone (hCG) to promote the growth and release of a mature egg, leading to ovulation.

Uses and Dosage

To ensure safe and effective usage of this medication, familiarize yourself with the preparation and administration guidelines provided by your healthcare professional and outlined in the product package.

Follow the instructions on how to add the mixing liquid to the medication, and refrain from shaking the vial. Once the mixture is ready, utilize the liquid promptly.

Before usage, visually inspect the product for any particles or discoloration. If either is detected, avoid using the liquid.

Your doctor will direct you on how to inject this medication either under the skin or into a muscle, typically once a day. They may prescribe a treatment cycle, specifying certain days each month for administration. Adhere closely to your doctor’s instructions.

Before administering each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. To minimize skin injury, change the injection site each time.

The dosage is determined based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and results of lab tests.

To derive the maximum benefit from this medication, strictly adhere to your doctor’s guidelines. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or use the drug more frequently or for a longer duration than recommended.

Learn proper techniques for storing and discarding needles and medical supplies in a safe manner.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• bloating (not severe or continuing)
• breast tenderness
• fatigue
• headache
• nausea or diarrhea
• pain, rash, swelling, or irritation at the place of injection
• rash
• vomiting

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• difficulty breathing
• chest pain
• pain and swelling in one leg muscle
• sudden trouble with vision
• dizziness
• sudden severe and unusual headache
• weakness
• difficulty speaking)
• swelling of the face or throat
• symptoms of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (difficulty breathing, abdominal or pelvic pain or discomfort, bloating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased amount of urine, rapid weight gain)

Caution

Before initiating the use of this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, especially if you are allergic to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) or other products containing it, or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.

Before using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have experienced other fertility problems such as primary ovarian failure, abnormal vaginal/uterine bleeding, thyroid issues, adrenal gland problems, reproductive organ cancers, pituitary tumor, ovarian cysts or enlarged ovaries, blood clots, stroke, certain heart diseases, or lung problems like asthma.

This treatment may lead to multiple births. For further details, consult your doctor.

Discontinue using this medication if you become pregnant, as it must not be used during pregnancy. If you suspect you might be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.

It is currently unclear whether this drug passes into breast milk. To determine the safety of breastfeeding while using this medication, consult your doctor beforehand.

Form and Strength

Gonal-F is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Gonal-F:
  • folitropin alpha:

FAQ

How long does it take for Gonal-F to start working?

It takes several cycles of treatment to work. Results can usually be seen any time between six and twelve months.

Does Gonal-F cause weight gain?

While weight gain is not a typical side effect of Gonal-F, stomach bloating can be.

Resources

1. https://www.goodrx.com/gonal-f/what-is
2. https://www.bellybelly.com.au/conception/gonal-f/#:~:text=How%20long%20does%20Gonal%2Df,between%20six%20and%20twelve%20months
3. https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/gonal-f-pen#adverseeffects
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-4730-5017/gonal-f-subcutaneous/follitropin-alfa-injection/details
5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/follitropin-alfa-subcutaneous-route/side-effects/drg-20063905?p=1
6. https://www.drugs.com/pro/gonal-f.html