Fertility Drugs

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Fertility Drugs

Be in the Know. Fertility Medication at a Glance.

At Fertility Specialist Medical Group (FSMG), we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all treatment plan for infertility. That’s particularly true of fertility drugs and medications, which are highly individualized.

We pride ourselves on providing flexible, attentive care while getting to know each of our patients. By doing so, we can understand and address any issues a patient may have while administering fertility medications during fertility treatment.

Whether by injection or orally, taking fertility medications exactly as prescribed is crucial for treatment success. It can appear daunting, as a patient may need numerous injections yet have no experience in self-administering medications in this manner.

We’ve designed our fertility medication training system so our staff members are actively involved in medication teaching, management and ordering for each patient. Providing personalized instruction eases patients’ concerns, making it more likely that medications will be consistently and properly self-administered.

We are invested in our patients’ treatment and journey through reproductive care. This includes investing the time and care necessary for our patients to fully understand their fertility medication.

Common Fertility Medications

Many medications are used during in vitro fertilization (IVF), some injected, some taken orally and others administered vaginally. The medication and dosage prescribed depend on many factors including test results, cycle goals, and the patient’s age.

Some of the most common fertility medications include the following.

  • Gonadotropins are injectable hormones used to increase the number of follicles (which contain eggs) prior to ovulation or egg retrieval for IVF.
  • Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists and agonists are medications that prevent premature ovulation prior to egg retrieval or intrauterine insemination (IUI). GnRH agonists, like Lupron, can also be used to signal the body to release mature eggs after the follicles have developed.
  • Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) drives the development and maturation of follicles (which contain eggs) in the ovaries.
  • Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is an injectable fertility medication that signals the body to release mature eggs after the follicles have developed.

Learn more about common fertility drugs

Fertility Treatment Injections

Patients visiting FSMG for IVF, IUI, ovulation induction and other fertility treatments may require medication via injections. These injections are most often done in the patient’s home, not in our office, due to the number of injections and timing necessary for treatment.

As some patients may require up to 90 injections per IVF cycle, it is important to understand how to properly administer the different medications.

Injection Tips

We know injections may seem an imposing task, but all of our physicians and staff members are here to help every step of the way. We encourage patients to call us whenever they have a question, and we provide fertility medication training prior to the start of your cycle. You can also always ask for a refresher!

Most injections are subcutaneous (into the fat under the skin of the belly), but a few are intramuscular (into the muscle of the buttocks). You can give them to yourself or have your partner, a family member or a friend do it. Bruising or redness at the injection area is a common occurrence and not a cause for concern.

Follow the instructions carefully to receive the full benefit of the medication.

Try to work the injections into your life as a normal routine or consider setting a regular reminder on your phone. This will help you keep on track with administration timing.

Some find that self-injecting gives them control of the process, but others want help, both with the task and just having someone there for support. Find what works best for you!

Choose a clean, sanitized place to administer the injections. Wash your hands. Properly dispose of needles and store medications as directed.

 Find a secure biohazard disposal site in San Diego

Video Instructions for Fertility Drug Injections

The more familiar you are with the injections, the less anxiety you will likely experience. Below you will find links to informational videos, in both English and Spanish, on injection training, preparation, and administration for commonly used medications during fertility treatment.

For English  |  For Español

Using Specialty Pharmacies for Medications

Most fertility drugs are obtained at a specialty pharmacy rather than a typical drugstore. Often, insurance companies will specify a preferred specialty pharmacy that offers the best coverage and rates for their subscribers.

Our financial and clinical team members are here to help you find the best option for your fertility medication. Additionally, we will work closely with you and your chosen pharmacy to ensure you have all the information you need for your medication.

Learn more about insurance support

Fertility Pharmacies

Below, we have gathered contact information on a few pharmacies in the San Diego area as well as online pharmacies that specialize in fertility medications. If you are traveling to Fertility Specialist Medical Group for fertility services, we will work with you to find a pharmacy in your area.

You’re unique.
Your fertility plan should be too.