Metrodin High Purity

What is it?

An hormonal gonadotrophin preparation available as freeze-dried powder in ampoules, with diluent, for reconstitution and injection, in two strengths, containing 75 units or 150 units of urofolitrophin (follicle-stimulating hormone).

Medical Uses

Men, hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism (failure of testicles to produce mature sperm due to lack of stimulating hormone, gonadotrophin, released from the pituitary gland), used in conjunction with hCG treatment. Women, absent or infrequent menstruation (amenorrhoea, oligomenorrhoea) caused by dysfunction of the hypothalamus, which regulates the hormonal output of the pituitary gland that in turn produces hormones that regulate the sex organs. Also, for superovulation in women having fertility treatment (IVF, GIFT or ZIFT).

Dosage

Men, I50iu by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection, 3 times each week for at least 4 months and possibly for 18 months or longer. Semen samples should be taken after 4 to 6 months of treatment and checked for sperm content. Women, hypothalamic pituitary gland dysfunction, 75 to 150 units each day at first by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection - Also, consult manufacturer's instructions. Subsequent treatment depends on response. Superovulation, 150 to 225 units each day - consult manufacturer's instructions.

Special Care

Women, monitoring is essential (for size of ovaries, response to oestrogen, avoidance of over-stimulation), hence treatment is usually under close medical supervision. Any hormonal disorders or brain lesions must be corrected before therapy starts. Also, anatomical defects should be ruled out as a cause of symptoms prior to beginning treatment.

Avoid Use

In men, primary failure of the testicles (ie when the problem is connected with the testicles themselves); women, pregnancy, ovarian cyst or enlarged ovaries due to other causes, tumours of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus, cancer of the breast, ovaries or womb.

Known Side Effects

Allergic reactions; women, over-stimulation of ovaries which may lead to enlargement or rupture, multiple pregnancy.

Manufacturer

Serono.