Meriofert (Luteinising Hormone (Human), Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)

Meriofert, a gonadotropin used in reproductive endocrinology, is indicated for:

• Infertility due to anovulation: supports follicular growth and ovulation in women who do not ovulate spontaneously.
• Assisted reproductive technology (e.g., IVF): provides controlled ovarian stimulation to obtain multiple oocytes for retrieval.
• Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: replaces deficient gonadotropins to initiate and maintain normal menstrual cycles.

• Meriofert contains human luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle‑stimulating hormone (FSH). Both hormones bind to specific gonadotropin receptors on ovarian granulosa and theca cells, activating intracellular cAMP pathways. FSH promotes follicular recruitment and estrogen production, while LH triggers final follicular maturation, ovulation, and luteinisation of the post‑ovulatory follicle.

Adverse reactions may occur with any injectable gonadotropin therapy.

Common Side Effects

• Injection site pain or erythema: mild discomfort at the injection site.
• Headache: transient, often resolves without intervention.
• Nausea: mild gastrointestinal upset.
• Abdominal bloating: sensation of fullness or distension.
• Mild ovarian hyperstimulation: enlarged ovaries with mild discomfort.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS): severe abdominal pain, rapid weight gain, shortness of breath.
• Thromboembolic events: rare clot formation in veins.
• Allergic reaction: rash, itching, or anaphylaxis.
• Ectopic pregnancy: implantation outside the uterus.
• Multiple pregnancy: twins or higher-order gestations.

When using Meriofert, clinicians should consider the following precautions:

• Patient selection: assess baseline ovarian reserve and risk factors for OHSS.
• Monitoring: perform serial ultrasound and estradiol measurements during stimulation.
• Contraindications: avoid in active ovarian cysts, uncontrolled thyroid disease, or estrogen‑dependent tumors.
• Pregnancy testing: confirm negative pregnancy before initiating therapy.
• Drug interactions: review concomitant medications that may affect ovarian response.
• Storage: Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Meriofert may interact with other agents that influence ovarian response or coagulation.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• GnRH agonists/antagonists used for pituitary suppression: may alter timing of ovulation trigger.
• High‑dose estrogen therapy: can blunt gonadotropin effectiveness.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, heparin): increased risk of thromboembolic complications in OHSS.
• Aromatase inhibitors: may affect estradiol levels during stimulation.
• Corticosteroids: may modify ovarian response and fluid balance.