|
|
|
hCG products include generic hCG, and Ovidrel
(recombinant hCG). All of these products mimic the activity
of luteinizing hormone, normally released from the pituitary,
which causes the eggs to be ovulated. The female endocrine
system responds to an hCG surge as if it were the LH surge.
Luveris (recombinant LH) can also stimulate ovulation and
is currently indicated for hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
(low gonadotropin levels)
Ovidrel is administered by subcutaneous injection
while generic hCG given by intramuscular injections.
Ovidrel is administered subcutaneously following
the manufacturers instructions. Be sure and remove the air
bubbles from the injection. The timing of the hCG injection, 36 hours prior
to retrieval or insemination, is critical. We recommend
a "backup" vial of hCG or Ovidrel in case one
is dropped or damaged. Natural hCG is available and it is administered intramuscularly.
Parlodel (bromocriptine)
Prolactin is the hormone that stimulates breast
mild production in pregnant women. Sometimes prolactin levels
are raised (hyperprolactinemia) in women who are not pregnant
occasionally due to a benign tumor on the pituitary gland
but usually due to an increase in activity of the cells
in the pituitary that produce prolactin. Elevated prolactin
levels cause breast tenderness, milk production, and anovulation
(lack of ovulation).
Abnormally elevated levels of prolactin
can be lowered by administering bromocriptine (Parlodel
or Dostinex) thus reestablishing normal ovulation. If the
microadenoma is symptomatic or very large the physician
decides to refer the patient to a neurosurgeon for removal
of the tumor.
Site Index |
|
