Could fertility drugs help you achieve your dreams of having a baby? According to a report shared by the CDC, six out of 100 babies born in the U.S. each year are conceived with the help of ovarian hyperstimulation medications. Out of every 100 babies born in the U.S. each year, one baby is conceived through the use of ovarian hyperstimulation medications combined with in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Here are details about some of the most common ovarian hyperstimulation medications and other fertility drugs that your doctor may prescribe to help you get pregnant.
Clomiphene citrate
Commonly known as Clomid, this fertility drug helps to stimulate egg recruitment and ovulation if you are not ovulating regularly. Clomid can also be taken by men for infertility issues.
Common names: Clomid, Serophene
Progesterone
This hormone comes in different formulations such as a liquid which can be injected into the buttocks or as a capsule/suppository which can be inserted into the vagina. Progesterone can help to prepare your uterus for a healthy implantation and pregnancy. This fertility drug may also help to regulate menstruation.
Common names: Prometrium
Gonadotropins
Gonadotropins are injectable fertility drugs that contain follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and/or luteinizing hormone (LH). These drugs stimulate egg recruitment and increase the number of eggs released by your ovaries. One risk of gonadotropin use is multiple gestations. Additionally, side effects of gonadotropins can be serious, so please contact your doctor if you experience uncomfortable side effects.
Common names: Menopur, Repronex, Follistim, Bravelle, Gonal-F, Profasi, Pregnyl
Leuprolide acetate
This fertility drug actually suppresses the ovaries, preventing ovulation and the release of an egg. This helps prevent premature ovulation during assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures like IVF.
Common names: Lupron
Metformin
This medication may be prescribed for women who have developed insulin resistance associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Metformin helps to increase one’s sensitivity to insulin which can lead to regular ovulation and, thus, improve fertility for women with PCOS.
Common names: Glucophage
Read more about common fertility drugs
Sources: Attain Fertility: Common Fertility Drugs, Medline Plus: Drugs, Attain Fertility: All About Injectable Fertility Medications
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lowell T. Ku, M.D., an award winning and leading Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility specialist at Dallas IVF, one the nation’s premiere infertility centers. Dr. Ku clarifies the many confusing terms used in the world of Infertility using straightforward explanations.
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