Ovitrelle (Choriogonadotropin Alfa)

Ovitrelle is a gonadotropin hormone used in reproductive medicine to induce ovulation and support early luteal phase function.

• Controlled ovarian stimulation (COS): Facilitates final follicular maturation and triggers ovulation in women undergoing in‑vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycles.
• Luteal phase support (LPS): Enhances corpus luteum function after egg retrieval to improve implantation rates.
• Assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles: Provides a reliable trigger for oocyte release in timed‑intercourse or intra‑uterine insemination protocols.
• Ovulation induction: Used to induce ovulation in women with anovulatory disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

• Choriogonadotropin alfa is a recombinant form of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) that binds to the LH/hCG receptor on ovarian granulosa cells. Activation of this G‑protein‑coupled receptor stimulates adenylate cyclase, raising intracellular cAMP and promoting steroidogenesis, follicular maturation and ovulation, thereby mimicking the natural LH surge that triggers oocyte release.

Adverse reactions to Ovitrelle are generally mild and transient, but monitoring is advised.

Common Side Effects

• Injection site pain: Discomfort or tenderness at the injection site.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headache.
• Nausea: Transient nausea or upset stomach.
• Fatigue: Generalised tiredness.
• Abdominal discomfort: Mild cramping or bloating.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS): Potentially severe fluid shift and abdominal distension.
• Allergic reaction: Rash, itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
• Ectopic pregnancy: Rare occurrence if implantation occurs outside the uterus.
• Thromboembolic events: Unusual clot formation.
• Severe abdominal pain: May indicate ovarian torsion or rupture.

Ovitrelle should be used only under specialist reproductive endocrinology supervision.

• Pregnancy testing: Confirm negative pregnancy test before administration.
• Ovarian reserve assessment: Evaluate baseline ovarian reserve to reduce OHSS risk.
• Hormone levels: Monitor estradiol and LH levels during stimulation.
• Contra‑indications: Avoid in known hypersensitivity to hCG or any excipients.
• Thromboembolic risk: Assess personal or family history of clotting disorders.
• Store at 2‑8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Ovitrelle has a limited interaction profile, but certain agents may modify its effectiveness or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• GnRH antagonists: May blunt the ovulatory response when given concurrently.
• High‑dose estrogen therapy: Can interfere with hCG‑mediated luteal support.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Anticoagulants antico antico
• Thyroid hormone replacement
• Corticosteroids
• Metformin
• Aromatase inhibitors