HCG or human chorionic gonadotropin, a naturally occurring hormone found in women during pregnancy will also help with infertility disorders. According to Drugs.com, an online drug resource, HCG, a gonadotropins classified drug, will induce ovulation and increase sperm counts. Brand names for HCG include Novarel, Ovidrel and Pregnyl. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine attests HCG is one of the most commonly prescribed ovulation drugs.
Precautions
Drugs.com states some patients have developed a life-threatening disorder, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome or OHSS, after taking HCG treatments. Immediately call emergency medical assistance if any of the following side effects occur: extreme pelvic or stomach pain, swelling of the hands, lower extremities or stomach, difficulty breathing, increase in weight, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting or a decrease in urine output.
Important Facts
HCG can cause a multiple pregnancy such as twins, triplets, or more fetuses, according to Drugs.com. Multiple pregnancies put the mother and babies at a higher risk of complications. A health care provider will follow the pregnancy closely. Boys taking HCG can enter puberty early. Notify a health care provider if your prepubescent son experiences the following side effects: deeper voice, hair growth in pubic area, acne or increased sweating. This medication can harm unborn babies. Stop taking this medication if you become pregnant and notify your health care provider immediately.
How it Works
According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, a health care provider may complete an ultrasound of the fallopian tubes and pelvic region and obtain an estrogen level to decide exactly when to give the HCG injection. Ovulation, or release of the female egg, typically happens 36 to 48 hours after administration of this medication. Health care providers may use other medications along with HCG to produce the desired outcome. Inform your health care provider of any medications you currently take including non-prescription drugs such as vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements. Notify your health care provider before starting any new medications.
Administration
According to Drugs.com, health care providers can give the HCG injection or may request patients to self-administer this medication. Verify with a health care provider the proper procedure before attempting to administer this injectable drug. After mixing HCG, store it in a refrigerator. Throw away any unused mixed medication after 30 days.
Side Effects
Drugs.com states HCG injections can result in side effects such as headache, restlessness and irritability, depression, tenderness or swelling of the breasts, weight gain and irritation at the injection site. Life-threatening side effects include hives, trouble breathing, swelling of tongue, throat, lips or mouth, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and blood clot formation. Signs of a blood clot include pain, swelling, warmth, redness, tingling or numbness in an arm or leg, confusion and severe dizziness and headache.
Availability
Companies manufacture different injectable forms of HCG. According to Drugs.com, HCG comes packaged as a separate powder and liquid that requires mixing prior to injection or in pre-filled syringes.
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