GONAL-f Injection Pre-Filled Pen 900 IU
GONAL-f (follitropin alfa) 900 IU injection is a recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone used to help with ovulation in women and sperm production in men as part of fertility treatment. It is injected under the skin.
What it is
Follitropin alfa is a recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) that belongs to a class of medicines called gonadotropins. It works by stimulating the ovaries in women to produce eggs and the testes in men to produce sperm.
What it's used for
In women, it is used to induce ovulation in those who do not ovulate regularly (oligo-ovulation or anovulation) when the cause is not due to primary ovarian failure. It is also used to stimulate the growth of multiple follicles as part of assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles. In men, it is used to start and maintain sperm production in those with infertility due to low levels of gonadotropins (hypogonadotropic hypogonadism) that is not caused by primary testicular failure.
Common side effects
Serious side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention. These include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) – symptoms like severe pelvic pain, nausea, vomiting, rapid weight gain, and decreased urination; allergic reactions including anaphylaxis; lung or blood vessel problems; twisting of the ovary (ovarian torsion); abnormal enlargement of the ovaries; multiple pregnancy; harm to the unborn baby; and ectopic pregnancy. Injection site reactions such as pain, redness, or swelling may also happen.
Important cautions
Do not use GONAL-f if you have a known allergy to follitropin alfa or any of its ingredients, or if you have high levels of FSH indicating that your ovaries or testes have stopped working. It should not be used in people with uncontrolled thyroid, adrenal, or pituitary disorders, or with hormone-sensitive tumours of the reproductive tract, pituitary, or hypothalamus. For women, treatment increases the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which can be severe. Multiple births are possible. For men, it should not be used if the cause of infertility is primary testicular failure. If you experience signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, swelling of the face, difficulty breathing), stop use and seek emergency help.
Frequently asked questions
What is GONAL-f used for?
GONAL-f is used to help women who do not ovulate regularly to produce eggs, and as part of IVF or other fertility treatments to produce multiple eggs. In men, it helps start or improve sperm production when the problem is due to low hormone levels.
What are the side effects of GONAL-f?
Serious side effects include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, allergic reactions, lung or blood vessel problems, ovarian torsion, multiple pregnancy, and ectopic pregnancy. Less serious side effects may include injection site reactions. Contact your doctor if you notice severe symptoms.
Can I buy GONAL-f without a prescription in Nigeria?
According to available information, GONAL-f is an over-the-counter medicine in Nigeria. However, it is a fertility drug that should only be used under medical supervision. We recommend consulting a doctor before using it.
How is GONAL-f taken?
GONAL-f is given as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. The dose and duration are determined by your doctor based on your condition and response. You will receive instructions on how to inject it yourself or by a healthcare professional.
This information is for general guidance only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician or pharmacist before using any medication.
