Care Guides: Fertility

More Fertility Medications

  • Estrace
    Estrace is a form of estrogen. It can be administered orally to mimic the effects of estrogen normally produced by the ovaries.
    Sept. 26, 2008
  • Human Chorionic Gonadatropin
    Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) has a chemical structure that is very similar to luteinizing hormone (LH), which triggers ovulation. HCG is also the hormone produced by pregnancies from the chorionic villi and placenta.
    Sept. 26, 2008
  • Progesterone
    As an attempt to support the lining of the uterus and prepare for implantation, supplemental human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) or progesterone is usually used.
    Sept. 26, 2008
  • Injections
    Most of the medications used in the treatment of infertility are given by injection.
    Sept. 26, 2008
  • Mixing Medications
    Most medications are provided in a powder form and require mixing prior to injection.
    Sept. 26, 2008
  • Clomid
    Clomiphine citrate (Clomid) is a compound that is very similar in structure to estrogen.
    Sept. 26, 2008
  • Gonadotropins
    The term gonadotropin refers to compounds that directly stimulate the ovaries. These medications are generally combinations of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) or pure FSH.
    Sept. 26, 2008
  • Lupron
    Lupron is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist, which means it should stimulate the release of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland.
    Sept. 26, 2008
  • Tamoxifen
    Tamoxifen is a medication that can induce ovulation induction by a mechanism similar to clomiphene citrate, but is more estrogenic in the cervix and uterus than clomiphene citrate.
    Sept. 26, 2008
  • Medication Risks
    Taking medications to stimulate growth of multiple follicles is associated with several risks. Please understand these risks completely before taking any medications.
    Sept. 26, 2008
  • Pharmacies
    Gonadotropins may not be available at local pharmacies. In this case, a specialty pharmacy may be required.
    Sept. 26, 2008

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URL: http://www.dukehealth.org/health_library/care_guides/fertility/medications