What is Cetrorelix?
Cetrorelix, a form of protein made by humans, blocks the effects of certain hormones that are present in the body and controls ovulation. The eggs can be damaged if ovulation happens too early during fertility treatments. Cetrorelix prevents eggs from being released prematurely (premature ovulation).Cetrorelix prevents premature ovulation when controlled ovarian stimuli are used.Cetrorelix can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Cetrorelix
If you experience any of the following symptoms: hives, rash, difficulty breathing, a cough, lightheadedness, swelling on your face, lips, or tongue, or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical attention.Some women who use cetrorelix may develop a condition known as ovarian hyperstimulation (OHSS), particularly after the first treatment. OHSS is a potentially life-threatening condition.
If any of these symptoms arise, contact your physician as soon as possible.
- Stomach pain, bloating;
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea;
- Rapid weight gain in the face and midsection, especially
- There is little or no urine production.
- Feeling short of breath, especially when lying down, is a sign that you are having difficulty breathing.
Cetrorelix can cause the following side effects:
- Nausea;
- Headache
- Redness, bruising, or itching may occur where the medicine has been injected.
There may be other side effects. Call your physician immediately if experiencing side effects; for reports to the FDA call 800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
Clomiphene, Clomid, chorionic gonadotropin (hcg), pregnyl, and menopur
Warnings
If you have severe renal disease, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have had an allergic response to a similar medicine (such as Lupron Antagon Zoladex Synarel or Zoladex), you should not take cetrorelix.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to cetrorelix, or:
- You have severe kidney disease.
- You are pregnant.
- You are breastfeeding a child.
- You are allergic to mannitol.
- Have you experienced an adverse reaction after taking other gonadotropin-releasing hormone medications (Lupron, Antagon, Zoladex, Synarel or Zoladex for example)
If you are pregnant, do not use cetrorelix. Birth defects, miscarriage or stillbirth may result from genetic engineering techniques used during gestation.Do not use it if pregnant. Prior to initiating any pregnancy-prevention treatment, a negative pregnancy test must first be obtained.
Cetrorelix is not known to pass into breast milk or to harm a baby who is nursing. Breast-feeding is not recommended while taking cetrorelix.
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that cetrorelix will be safe for you:
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease.
How to take cetrorelix?
Do not alter the instructions on your prescription. Use this medication only as directed. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or extend usage beyond what has been stipulated.Cetrorelix can be injected into the skin. You may be taught how to inject at home. You should not administer this medication to yourself if you don't know how to properly use the needle and dispose of used syringes and needles.Cetrorelix comes as a powder that needs to be mixed (diluted) with liquid before use. You should know how to mix and store your injections if you use them at home.Your healthcare provider will show you the best spots on your body where you can inject cetrorelix. Each time you inject, use a new location. Don't inject in the same spot twice.Read any patient information, medication guide, or instruction sheet. If you have questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.You will need to begin using cetrorelix on a specific day in your cycle for the best results. You should follow your doctor's instructions on when to take this medication and what time to inject it.
You will receive a second medication called human chorionic gonadotrotropin (hcg) as part of your fertility treatments. You will only receive an hcg shot on the days that your ovaries are prepared for controlled ovulation.You'll need to have regular ultrasound exams to determine if your ovaries are ready for ovulation. Your doctor can then determine the best time to administer your hcg.Cetrorelix should be stored in the refrigerator. Don't freeze. To protect the medicine from light, keep it in its original container. Do not use any medicine after the date of expiration printed on the label.Only use a disposable syringe and needle once. Use syringes and needles only once.Ask your pharmacist how you can safely dispose of sharps in an impermeable container.This container should be kept out of the reach of pets and children.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for ovulation induction
On day 5 or 6 of stimulation (morning, evening, or both), 0.25 mg is administered subcutaneously. This dose should be repeated daily until the HCG administration day.
Comments:
This drug is intended for injection subcutaneously into the lower abdominal wall.
HCG can be administered when an ultrasound assessment shows that there are enough follicles. This will induce ovulation and the final maturation of oocytes. To reduce the risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), no HCG should ever be administered if your ovaries are showing an excessive response after treatment with gonadotropins.
Use: To inhibit the premature surges of luteinizing (LH) hormone in women who are undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you happen to forget a dose, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Do not miss any doses. Your fertility treatment will be successful if you use the right timing for your injections.
What happens if I overdose?
Reach out immediately if a poison exposure has taken place by calling our poison help line at 1-800-222-1222, or seek immediate medical care from medical facilities nearby. A cetrorelix overdose is unlikely to cause life-threatening symptoms.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies, may interact with cetrorelix. Inform your healthcare providers of all the medicines you are taking and those you plan to take.
