From the Firehose

Sample blog post

January 1, 2014 by Mark

There are several drugs that are commonly used in assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), to help regulate and stimulate the growth and development of eggs and embryos. These drugs can be grouped into several categories based on their mechanism of action, including:

  1. Gonadotropins: These are hormones that stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Examples include:
  • Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): FSH is used to stimulate the growth of follicles in the ovaries, which contain the eggs.
  • Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG): hCG is used to trigger ovulation by mimicking the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge that occurs naturally.
  1. GnRH agonists and antagonists: These drugs are used to suppress the natural hormonal cycle and prevent the premature LH surge that can occur with gonadotropin therapy. Examples include:
  • GnRH agonists: These drugs mimic the action of GnRH, which stimulates the release of FSH and LH. They are used to suppress the LH surge and prevent ovulation.
  • GnRH antagonists: These drugs block the action of GnRH, which prevents the release of FSH and LH. They are used to suppress ovulation more quickly than agonists.
  1. Progestins: These drugs are used to support the endometrial lining and prepare the uterus for implantation of the embryo. Examples include:
  • Progesterone: Progesterone is a hormone that is produced by the corpus luteum after ovulation. It is used to support the endometrial lining and prepare the uterus for implantation of the embryo.
  1. Androgens: These drugs are used to improve ovarian response and increase the number of eggs retrieved in IVF. Examples include:
  • Clomiphene citrate: Clomiphene citrate is an oral medication that is used to stimulate ovulation.

It's important to note that drugs used for IVF are prescription drugs and should be taken under the guidance of a qualified medical professional. All of these drugs have potential side effects and risks, so it's important to discuss the pros and cons with your doctor.