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Follistim AQ Cartridge

Generic name: follicle-stimulating hormone [FOL-ik-al-STIM-ue-lay-ting-HOR-mone]
Brand names: Follistim AQ Cartridge, Gonal-F, Gonal-F RFF
Drug class: Gonadotropins

What is the Follistim AQ cartridge?

Follistim Aq Cartridge treats infertility among women who cannot ovulate. Follistim Cartridge does not work in women who have primary failure of the ovaries. Follistim cartridges can also be used by men to stimulate sperm production. This medication does not help men who suffer from primary testicular dysfunction (in which their testicles cannot produce sperm). Follistim AQ Cartridges are often used in conjunction with another medication known as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Follistim AQ cartridges can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.

Side effects of Follistim Cartridge

If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing or swelling of lips, face, tongue or throat. Seek medical assistance immediately.

This medicine can cause ovarian hyperstimulation (OHSS), a potentially fatal condition. If you experience symptoms of OHSS while using Follistim or soon after, stop using the medicine and contact your doctor immediately.

  • Diarrhea, nausea, and severe pain in the lower abdomen;
  • Bloating and rapid weight gain
  • Little or no urination
  • Trouble breathing

Call your doctor immediately if you:

  • Severe pelvic pain on only one side
  • A cough that produces bloody mucus
  • Fever, sore throat;
  • A lump or swelling on your testicles
  • Signs of acute respiratory stress syndrome include fever and shortness of breath.
  • Signs of a blood clot include sudden numbness, weakness, or problems with speech or vision, as well as swelling or redness on an arm or limb.

Some of the common side effects associated with Follistim AQ Cartridge include:

  • Redness, swelling or bruises at the injection site;
  • An ovarian cyst
  • Headache, tiredness;
  • Breast pain or swelling
  • Stuffy nose, sneezing, sinus pain;
  • Acne;

There may be other side effects. For medical advice regarding side effects, call your physician. For reporting side effects directly, the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follistim AQ cartridge should not be used if you suffer from an untreated or uncontrolled endocrine condition (thyroid, pituitary, or adrenal gland), abnormal or heavy vaginal bleeding that has not been examined by a physician, ovarian cysts, or cancers of the breast, ovary, uterus, testis, hypothalamus, or pituitary. Do not use this medication if you're pregnant.Before commencing treatment, a negative pregnancy test may be necessary.

Before you take this drug

Follistim AQ cartridges can be used safely if you have no conditions. Your doctor will conduct blood tests.

Follistim AQ Cartridge should not be used if:

  • Untreated thyroid, pituitary or adrenal gland disorders:
  • Heavy or abnormal vaginal bleeds that have not been checked out by a physician;
  • An ovarian cyst
  • Cancer of the breast, ovary, or uterus;
  • If you have an allergy to benzyl alcohol, follitropin, or sucrose, Neomycin. Sodium Phosphate.

Do not use this medication if you have already become pregnant. A negative pregnancy test may be required before beginning this treatment. If you fall pregnant, tell your doctor immediately.

Tell your doctor about any of the following:

  • Unusual vaginal bleeding
  • Polycystic ovarian disease
  • Torsion of the ovary
  • A stroke or blood clot
  • Asthma;
  • Surgery for the stomach.

Multiple births (twins or triplets) can be a result of fertility treatment. Both the mother and her babies are at high risk during these pregnancies. Speak to your doctor about the risk if you are concerned. Follistim AQ cartridges should not be used while breastfeeding.

How to take Follistim AQ Cartridge?

Read all the instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow the directions. Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. You must take the medication exactly as it is prescribed. The Follistim AQ cartridge must be used under the supervision of a physician. Follistim AQ Cartridges are injected into the skin. You may be taught how to use the medicine by a healthcare provider. Please read and follow all instructions for use that come with your medication. If you do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Follistim AQ Cartridge may require a liquid to be mixed with it before use. If you are using injections on your own, make sure that you know how to mix and store them. Only prepare an injection when you're ready to administer it. If the medicine is cloudy or contains particles, do not use it. For new medication, call your pharmacist.

You may have to have sex every day for a few days. Follistim Cartridge works best when sex is done at the same time as medication. Medical tests will be required frequently. You may need to have periodic ultrasound tests if you are using this medication to become pregnant. Your doctor may advise you to temporarily stop having sex if your blood tests show that it is necessary.

Store this medicine in its original, unopened packaging (not for use).

  • Use within the expiration date.
  • Use within 3 months of the expiration date or store at room temperature, protected from light.

This medicine is not suitable for storage once it has been opened.

  • Store in the refrigerator (do not freeze) or at room temperature, protected from light.
  • Use within 28 days.

Do not heat the medicine. The medicine should not be heated. Only use a needle or syringe once, and then store them in a "sharps container" that is puncture-proof. Be sure to follow local or state laws on how to properly dispose of the container. Keep the container out of the reach of pets and children.

What happens if I miss the dose?

If you miss a dosage, call your doctor to get instructions.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.

What should be avoided?

If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.

Interaction with other drug

Follistim AQ Cartridge may be affected by other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you have started or stopped using.