Ovidrel product image

What is it for?

  Ovidrel is a medication that enhances the body’s ability to ovulate by supplying a hormone called hCG. This fertility treatment is applied by inserting a needle below the skin of the abdominal area with the aim of triggering ovulation. The drug’s ability to trigger a release of all mature follicles may enhance one’s ability to get twins or even triplets; a situation commonly known as Ovidrel multiple births.   The standard dosage is 250 mcg per day although this may vary depending on the patient’s condition and the doctor’s opinion on the same.   Some patients prefer to administer the medication themselves and that is allowed provided one follows the instructions on the package carefully in line with the doctor’s opinion.   In most cases, ovulation happens within 36 hours after the injection. In order to increase chances of its effectiveness, it is recommended to have sex over that period of time. Those using other methods like insemination, an IUC cycle may be recommended within that time period as well.  

Does It Have Any Side Effects?

  Like any medication, Ovidrel too has some side effects that have been reported by at least 1 percent of women who have been on the treatment. Fortunately, most of these side effects can actually be managed while others usually go away over time on their own.

Some commonly reported side effects include

  • bruising
  • pain or inflammation in the area where the drug was injected
  • dizziness
  • breast pain
  • diarrhea
  • unexpected weight gain

Other common side effects include

  • nausea
  • stomach ache
  • and digestive problems like bloating
In some few cases, this medication may cause Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), a condition in which the ovaries usually swell and enlarge thereby causing a fluid to leak into the chest and abdomen. Although this condition might be mild in most cases causing only discomfort, in some few cases it may result to life threatening complications.   Note that, the fact that Ovidrel has some side effects does not mean it is not safe. The treatment is very safe and that is why not everyone who takes it experiences these side effects. However, in case you experience any of the side effects and they are very severe or even bothersome, ensure you contact your doctor so he can advise you on how to manage them.  

Are There Any Precautions for this Medication?

  Although no specific interactions with this medication are known, some medical conditions may actually interact with Ovidrel. Therefore, before beginning the treatment, you should let the doctor know of any allergies to foods, medicines or other substances, whether you’re breastfeeding or are pregnant, if you’re on any prescription or non-prescription drug and other important facts about your health. Women with thyroid disorders, history of liver disorders, unusual vaginal bleeding, ovarian cysts, adrenal gland disorders, pituitary gland tumor and tumor of the female reproductive organ should not also take this medication.   And in case you become pregnant while on treatment, you should let the doctor know to avoid risk to the unborn baby. Multiple births may also occur so talk to the doctor about the risks of Ovidrel multiple births before you start the treatment. In addition, the drug is to be used only by the patient for who it is prescribed by the doctor so no sharing with other persons.