Products
Menotropin is commercially available as an injectable (Menopur, Merional HG, combination products). It has been used medicinally since the 1960s.
Structure and properties
Menotropin is a highly purified human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG, ) derived from human urine of postmenopausal women. Argentina and China are reported as the countries of origin. Menotropin is a mixture of LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone). The relative proportions depend on the product, but often they are about equal (1:1).
Effects
Menotropin (ATC G03GA02) stimulates the growth and maturation of follicles in the ovaries. This also increases estrogen production and stimulates the uterus to proliferate, allowing implantation of the fertilized egg. After follicle maturation is complete, ovulation is triggered with hCG.
Indications
- For stimulation of follicular growth in female infertility.
- For induction of controlled superovulation in patients participating in a physician-assisted reproductive program (“artificial insemination“).
Dosage
According to the professional information. The drugs are usually injected subcutaneously. Some may also be injected intramuscularly.
Contraindications
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include headache, abdominal pain, reactions at the injection site, and a distended abdomen. Use may result in multiple pregnancies (usually twins).
