Menopur, or menotropins, is a prescription medication that is a gonadotropin and ovulation stimulator. It's used in conjunction with hCG in infertile women to induce ovulation and pregnancy. It is also used for stimulating multiple follicle development as part of an assisted reproductive technology, or ART. Smoking can affect how your body reacts to the drug. Speak with your physician to see if this drug is safe for you.
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Menopur affects the follicle stimulation hormone, or FSH, by stimulating the development and maturation of the ovarian follicle. It also affects lutenizing hormone, or LH, which leads to ovulation and stimulates the development of the corpeus luteum, which is involved in the production of hormones. These functions are necessary to get pregnant. However, the drug cannot be used in women who have primary ovarian failure, according to the "Drug Information Handbook."
Menopur's Effects onf the Lungs
Menopur may have serious effects on the function of the lungs. RxList.com says patients may develop acute respiratory distress syndrome, which is difficulty breathing, and atelectasis, which is lung collapse. Menopur may also worsen asthma. Let your physician know of your entire medical history to ensure you do not develop an adverse reaction.
Thromboembolic Events
Thromboembolic events reported with the use Menopur include thrombosis, which is a blood clot, and embolism, a blockage a blood vessel. These events have also occurred in women who develop ovarian hyperstimulaton syndrome, or OHSS, in which the ovary enlarges and causes pain, nausea and vomiting. Complications of these events include stroke, embolism in the lungs, and swollen or blocked arteries that may lead to a loss of a limb, says RxList.com.
Smoking
Cigarette smoking may increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, sudden death, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, according to "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach." Smoking may significantly increase the risk of developing the effects on the lungs and thromboembolic events. You should not smoke while using this drug.
Quitting Smoking
Different products available for smoking cessation include prescription and non-prescription medications. Nicotine replacement therapy includes the patch, the nicotine gum and the nicotine lozenge. Two prescription medications, Zyban and Chantix, do not contain any nicotine but instead work in the brain to decrease cravings. Consult a physician or pharmacist about which is the best choice for you.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
- RxList.com: Menopur
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysilogic Approach"; Joseph T. DiPiro, Robert L. Talbert,et al.; 2008
