Gonal-F is a synthetic human follicle stimulating hormone used to help stimulate egg production in women who have difficulty becoming pregnant. This treatment may also be used by male patients to help increase sperm production. Gonal-F is administered as a subcutaneous injection beneath the surface of the skin. Patients should be aware of the side effects of Gonal-F before receiving this form of hormone therapy.
Upset Stomach
Upset stomach side effects may emerge following treatment with Gonal-F. In clinical trials for this form of hormone therapy, nearly 14 percent of patients reported experiencing nausea after receiving Gonal-F, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Additional upset stomach side effects may include diarrhea, vomiting, heartburn, abdominal pain, gas or flatulence.
Flu-like Symptoms or Respiratory Infection
Patients receiving treatment with Gonal-F may experience flu-like side effects, such as fever, chills, headache, upset stomach or muscle or joint aches or weakness, Drugs.com warns. Respiratory tract side effects, including cough or breathing difficulties may also arise in treated patients. In fact, approximately 12 percent of treated patients developed an upper respiratory tract infection while receiving Gonal-F therapy, according to RxList. If any of these side effects occur, affected patients should consult a physician for further evaluation and care.
Enlarged Ovary
Women receiving this form of hormone therapy may develop an unusually enlarged ovary. An enlarged ovary or ovarian cyst may lead to symptoms of abdominal swelling, pressure, tenderness or pain, Drugs.com reports. Abdominal discomfort caused by ovarian enlargement may exacerbate stomach upset side effects in certain women. These side effects should be discussed with a medical professional if they occur.
Menstrual Cycle Changes
Menstrual cycle changes may develop in women taking Gonal-F. Affected women may experience spotting in between their normal menstrual cycles or may develop irregular menstrual periods. In fact, nearly 10 percent of patients reported experiencing vaginal bleeding in between their menstrual cycles during Gonal-F treatment, according to the FDA. Certain women may also experience breast pain or tenderness in conjunction with menstrual cycle abnormalities.
Skin Rash or Hair Loss
Skin irritation or dryness may occur in patients treated with Gonal-F. The affected skin may become flaky and can begin to itch. Certain patients may also develop temporary hair loss, which fully resolves once treatment with Gonal-F ends.
Injection Site Reaction
A mild skin reaction may occur at the injection site following treatment with Gonal-F. The treated skin may appear irritated, red or swollen and can be tender to the touch. These side effects typically subside within a few days of treatment.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome
An estimated 5 percent of patients treated with Gonal-F develop a potentially life-threatening condition called ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, Drugs.com reports. Affected patients may develop symptoms of limb swelling, abdominal or pelvic pain, weight gain, decreased urine output, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea or difficulty breathing. If these symptoms emerge, affected patients should seek emergency medical care.
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