Products
Urofollitropin is commercially available as an injectable (fostimone). It has been approved in many countries since 1996.
Structure and properties
Urofollitropin is a highly purified human follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) derived from the urine of postmenopausal women. FSH is a heterodimer and consists of two distinct glycoproteins, the α-subunit (92 amino acids) and the β-subunit (111 amino acids), which are non-covalently bound to each other. FSH is a hormone of the anterior pituitary.
Effects
Urofollitropin (ATC G03GA04) stimulates follicular growth, maturation, and function.
Indications
- Ovulation induction in infertile women with hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction (including polycystic ovary syndrome).
- Multiple follicle maturation in patients participating in a reproductive medicine program.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The drug is injected intramuscularly or subcutaneously.
Contraindications
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions are possible with clomiphene and GnRH agonists.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include:
- Fever, local reactions at the injection site.
- Nausea, vomiting
- Skin rash
- Joint pain
- Sensitivity of the breasts
