Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

GONADOTROPINS, CHORIONIC - INTRAMUSCULAR

(GO-nad-oh-TROW-pins, ko-ree-ON-ick)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): A.P.L., Chorex, Pregnyl, Profasi

Uses

This medication is a hormone which stimulates the ovaries and the testes. It is used in males to stimulate testicular descent or testicular growth and development. In females, this medication is used in combination with other medication to induce ovulation.

How To Use

This medication is given by injection into a muscle by a health care professional. Females may require only one dose. Males may receive a series of injections 2 to 3 times a week. Make sure you understand what your dosing schedule is. Keep all doctor's appointments so therapy can be monitored closely.

Side Effects

Headache, stomach pain, irritability, restlessness, mood changes, fatigue, acne or swelling of the breast in males may occur. You may also experience pain or irritation at the injection site. If these symptoms continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: swelling of the ankles or feet, leg pain, chest pain, breathing difficulty. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have: heart disease, kidney disease, asthma, migraine headaches, seizure disorder, cancer, any allergies. A preservative (benzyl alcohol) which may be found in this product or in the liquid used to mix this product (diluent) can infrequently cause serious problems (sometimes death) if given by injection to an infant during the first months of life (neonatal period). The risk is greater with lower birth weight infants and is greater with increased amounts of benzyl alcohol. Symptoms include sudden gasping, low blood pressure, or a very slow heartbeat. Report these symptoms to the doctor immediately should they occur. If possible, a preservative-free product should be used when treating neonates. This medication must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. Use of this medication may result in multiple births (e.g., twins, triplets).

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

It is important to understand your therapy and to follow your doctor's instructions closely. Be sure to ask your doctor any questions you may have.

Missed Dose

It is important to take each dose at the scheduled time. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor who will help establish a new dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store this medication as directed. Properly discard of any unused medication.