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Home > Services > Gynecology > Care Guides > Fertility Resources > Medications
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Fertility Medications

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Use these guides to learn more about medications used to treat infertility.

  • Clomid
    Clomiphine citrate (Clomid) is a compound that is very similar in structure to estrogen.
  • Estrace
    Estrace is a form of estrogen. It can be administered orally to mimic the effects of estrogen normally produced by the ovaries.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Lupron
    Lupron is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Mixing Medications
    Most medications are provided in a powder form and require mixing prior to injection.
  • Injections
    Most of the medications used in the treatment of infertility are given by injection.
  • Medication Risks
    Taking medications to stimulate growth of multiple follicles is associated with several risks. Please understand these risks completely before taking any medications.
  • Pharmacies
    Gonadotropins may not be available at local pharmacies. In this case, a specialty pharmacy may be required.
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About This Page

Updated: Sept. 8, 2010
Published: Sept. 8, 2010
URL: http://www.dukehealth.org/services/gynecology/care_guides/fertility/medications/index