What is this medication for?
Urofollitropin belongs to the class of medications called gonadotropins. It is a purified form of human FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) which stimulates the ovaries. This hormone stimulates the ovarian follicle (the developing egg, the fluid around the egg, and the cells surrounding the egg that produce the hormones needed in pregnancy) to mature.
Urofollitropin is usually given in combination with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which causes ovulation or the release of the egg.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Bravelle® is available as:
- injectable (intramuscular/subcutaneous)
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The dose of urofollitropin must be individualized. For patients undergoing ovulation induction, the usual starting dose of urofollitropin is 150 IU per day injected under the skin or into the muscle for the first 5 days. For patients undergoing invitro fertilization or for egg donors, the usual starting dose is 225 IU per day injected under the skin for the first 5 days. Your doctor will adjust the dose according to your response as determined by lab tests and ultrasounds and s/he will also decide if hCG is required.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Your doctor or other health professional will show you exactly how to mix and draw up the medication into the needles and how to inject it. Do not use your injectable solution if it appears cloudy, lumpy, or discolored.
It is important that intercourse take place around the time of ovulation for the best chance of becoming pregnant.
The medication (unmixed) can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator. It should be protected from light.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Urofollitropin should not be taken by women who:
- are allergic to urofollitropin or any other ingredients in the medication
- are infertile for any reason other than lack of egg development or ovulation
- are pregnant
- have abnormal bleeding without known cause
- have an ovarian cyst or enlarged ovary not caused by polycystic ovarian syndrome
- have a pituitary tumor or certain brain lesions
- have high levels of FSH
- have uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction