How does it work?

Urofollitrophin, which is also known as follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), is produced naturally in the brain, specifically by the pituitary glands. Follicle stimulating hormone is responsible for the development and release of eggs in the ovaries (female reproductive organ) and the formation of sperm cells in the testes (male reproductive organ). Hence it plays an essential role in reproduction and fertility. The absence or low levels of this hormone gives rise to infertility in both men and women. Therefore it is commonly used in combination with other hormones, to treat infertility assocaited with lack of ovualtion and decreased sperm cell production. It is also used in assisted reproductive technologies such as in vito fertilisation (IVF).

What is it used for?

Female infertility

Male infertility

Warning!

Treatment with this medicine needs very close monitoring of bodily functions and levels of the medicine being administered.

There is a possibility of multiple pregnancies - having two or more babies - occurring with this treatment.

For use only under specialist medical supervision

There is a risk of an overstimulation of the ovaries, which can lead to serious adverse effects (ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome) with this treatment. Women undergoing the treatment must be carefully monitored to avoid this occurrence. Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and weight gain.

It is recommended that men undergo semen analysis 4 to 6 months into this treatment to assess their response.

Use with caution in

Intolerance to lactose in the diet

Not to be used in

Cancers of the ovaries, uterus and the breast

Complete inability of the ovaries to carry out their normal function e.g produce eggs (ovarian failure)

Enlarged ovaries or presence of fluid filled sacs in the ovaries (ovarian cysts), which is not due to polycystic ovarian syndrome

Fibroids of the uterus

Malformation of sex organs such that they can not support pregnancy

Malfunctioning of the testes, not related to any other cause (primary testicular insufficiency)

Pregnancy

Tumours of parts of the brain (hypothalamus and the pituitary gland)

Unexplained vaginal bleeding

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Abnormal enlargement of breasts in the male (gynaecomastia)

Fever (pyrexia)

Acne

Over stimulation of the ovaries causing production of many ova (eggs) in the woman.

Local sensitivity reactions

Pain in the joints (arthralgia)

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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