What is Luveris?
The purified hormone luteinizing hormone (pronounced LOO-tin-eyezing), or LH, is Luveris. This hormone is essential for the development of the follicles, or eggs, produced by women's ovaries.When combined with follitropin, Luveris can be used to treat infertility among women with LH deficiencies.Luveris does not stimulate ovulation. Other medicines will be required to stimulate ovulation.
Warnings
Luveris should not be used if you suffer from primary ovarian dysfunction, abnormal vaginal blood flow, uncontrolled thyroid and adrenal gland disorders, or an ovarian tumour.Luveris is not recommended for pregnant women.Do not use Luveris, and do not engage in sexual activity. Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, rapid weight gain, little or no urine, pain or discomfort when breathing, rapid heartbeat, or shortness of breath.Multiple births are more likely to occur after treatment with Luveris. Multiple births are associated with increased risks for both the mother and fetus. Talk to your doctor about the risks of multiple births.
Before you take this drug
Luveris should not be used if:
- Infertility is not due to a lack of ovulation
- A condition known as primary ovarian dysfunction
- Undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding;
- Uncontrolled or untreated thyroid or adrenal disorder;
- An ovarian cyst
- Cancer of the uterus and ovary
- A tumour of the pituitary
- If you are pregnant.
Your doctor will conduct blood tests and perform a pelvic examination to ensure that you don't have any conditions that could prevent you from using Luveris safely.Before you start taking Luveris, it is important to check the fertility of your male partner.Tell your doctor about any risk factors you may have for coronary heart disease.
- Diabetes;
- High blood pressure or high cholesterol?
- A family history of coronary arterial disease
- Smoking;
- Being overweight.
Luveris increases your chance of having multiples (twins or triplets). Multiple pregnancies are high-risk for both the mother and the baby. You should follow your doctor's advice about any special care that you might need during pregnancy.If you get pregnant after taking this medication, Luveris can increase your chances of having a tubal pregnancy. This may lead to a miscarriage or stillbirth. It could also cause premature labor. Speak to your doctor if these risks concern you.Luveris can increase your risk of uterine cancer. Consult your doctor to determine your risk. Report any abnormal vaginal bleeding immediately.FDA pregnancy category X Luveris may help you get pregnant, but it can also harm the unborn child or cause birth defects. Luveris should not be used if pregnant. Inform your doctor immediately if you get pregnant while taking the medicine.There is no way to know if lutropin beta passes into breastmilk or if it can harm a baby who is nursing. You should tell your doctor if a child is breastfed.
How to take Luveris?
The Luveris injection is given under the skin. You might be taught how to inject at home. You should not inject this medicine yourself if you don't know how to properly give an injection or dispose of used needles.Do not alter the instructions on your prescription. Use this medication only as directed. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or use it for longer.The patient instructions accompany this medicine and ensure safe and effective usage. Please follow the instructions carefully. If you have questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.Luveris comes as a powder that needs to be mixed with a liquid before use. You should know how to mix and store your injections if you use them at home.After mixing, gently swirl the medicine. Do not shake the medicine bottle, or you could ruin the medicine. Do not prepare your dose until you are ready for an injection. If the medicine has become cloudy or changed colour, or if it contains particles, do not use it. For new medicine, call your pharmacist.Luveris can be taken daily for up to 14 consecutive days. You will need to have frequent blood tests and ultrasonic exams in order to ensure that the medicine works. You may need to keep a daily temperature chart.Follow your doctor's advice to get the best possible results with your fertility treatment.Use a single disposable needle. Use a sharps container that is puncture-proof. Ask your pharmacist where and how you can purchase one and dispose of it properly. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of sharps in a container that is puncture-proof. This container should be kept out of the reach of pets and children.Store powdered medicine unmixed at room temperature, away from moisture, light, and heat.The powder can also be stored in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.Combinations of medications are often used to treat infertility. Follow your doctor's instructions when taking any medication. Each medication comes with a patient instruction guide or medication guide. You should not alter your medication or dose schedule without consulting your doctor.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you missed a dose, 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.
Side effects of Luveris
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek emergency medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.Women who use this medication may develop a condition known as ovarian hyperstimulation (OHSS), particularly after the first treatment. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) can be life-threatening. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using Luveris and contact your doctor immediately.
- Stomach pain, bloating;
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea;
- Rapid weight gain in the face and midsection, especially
- Little or no urinating is acceptable.
- Feeling short of breath, especially when lying down, is a sign that you are having difficulty breathing.
Call your doctor immediately if you notice any signs of a stroke or blood clots, including:
- Sudden numbness, especially on one side; severe headaches, slurred words, or problems with balance or vision;
- Chest pain, sudden coughing, rapid breathing, or coughing blood
- Some symptoms that indicate pain on one or both legs include swelling, redness and warmth.
Common Luveris side effects may include:
- Nausea, stomach pain, diarrhoea, constipation, gas;
- Menstrual cramps and pelvic pain are two common symptoms of menstrual pain.
- Breast pain
- Headache;
- Pain or irritation at the site of injection;
- Tired feeling
- Cold symptoms include a stuffy nose, a sore throat, and sneezing.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contact the FDA by dialing 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report adverse side effects.
Interaction with other drug
Lutropin alfa may interact with other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, herbal products, vitamins, and supplements. Inform your healthcare providers of all the medicines you are taking and those you plan to take.
