Urofollitropin
Pronunciation: (yoo-row-foll-ih-TROH-pin).
- Generic name
- urofollitropin
- Brand names
- Bravelle, Menogon, Urofollitropin, Fertogard, Fostimon, Foligraf
- Drug class
- Gonadotropin (Follicle Stimulating Hormone, FSH)
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: India
Australia: · Full directory
What urofollitropin is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how urofollitropin works
Urofollitropin is a purified preparation of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) derived from the urine of postmenopausal women. It binds to FSH receptors on the surface of ovarian granulosa cells, stimulating follicular growth and maturation. This leads to increased estradiol production and development of multiple follicles, which is essential for assisted reproductive technologies. (1)
What urofollitropin is used for
Induction of ovulation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who have failed to ovulate with clomiphene citrate
Induction of ovulation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who have failed to ovulate with clomiphene citrate (1)
Development of multiple follicles in ovulatory women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF)
Development of multiple follicles in ovulatory women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) (1)
Stimulation of spermatogenesis in men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism who have previously received hCG therapy
Stimulation of spermatogenesis in men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism who have previously received hCG therapy (1)
Before taking urofollitropin
Do not take / not appropriate for
- primary ovarian failure, uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction, hormone-dependent tumors, abnormal uterine bleeding of unknown origin, ovarian cysts not due to polycystic ovary syndrome, and hypersensitivity to FSH preparations. (Contraindication) (1)
Tell your clinician about
(1)How to take urofollitropin
- General Instructions: Urofollitropin is administered by injection, usually once daily. Your doctor will determine the exact dose and schedule based on your individual response and treatment protocol.. Adult Dosing: Typical starting dose is 75–150 IU injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly daily. Dose may be adjusted based on ovarian response, monitored by ultrasound and hormone levels.. Pediatric Dosing: Not recommended for use in children or adolescents.. Administration: Inject under the skin (subcutaneous) or into a muscle (intramuscular), as instructed by your healthcare provider. Rotate injection sites to reduce irritation.. When To Seek Review: ask the prescriber about stopping it if excessive ovarian response or OHSS develops, or if pregnancy is confirmed. Your doctor will advise when to discontinue.. Storage: Store vials at 2–8°C (36–46°F). Protect from light. Use immediately after reconstitution. Do not freeze.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (1)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. do not take an extra dose to make up for a missed one.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include severe abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and signs of OHSS. Seek emergency medical attention immediately if overdose is suspected. (1)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Abdominal pain
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Headache
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Injection site reactions
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Nausea
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Breast tenderness
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Ectopic pregnancy
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Multiple births
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Serious warnings
Risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which can be life-threatening — serious
Symptoms: Risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which can be life-threatening. Increased risk of multiple pregnancies (twins or more). Potential for allergic reactions. Monitor for blood clots, especially if you have risk factors. Not for use in women with primary ovarian failure.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (1)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindications include primary ovarian failure, uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction, hormone-dependent tumors, abnormal uterine bleeding of unknown origin, ovarian cysts not due to polycystic ovary syndrome, and hypersensitivity to FSH preparations. Precautions include risk of OHSS, thromboembolic events, and multiple pregnancies. Use with caution in women with risk factors for thrombosis or those with polycystic ovary syndrome.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (1)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Urofollitropin may interact with other fertility drugs, especially human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs. Always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking. There are no significant interactions with most common medications, but careful monitoring is essential. | (1) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
Urofollitropin is a fertility medication used before conception to stimulate follicle development; it is not used during an established pregnancy. Once pregnancy is confirmed, treatment is stopped and further care follows standard prenatal guidance. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and multiple pregnancy are known risks of treatment. (1)
Breastfeeding
Urofollitropin is used prior to conception as part of fertility treatment and is not indicated during breastfeeding. Discuss the timing of any fertility treatment relative to breastfeeding with the treating specialist. (1)
Children
Frequency: Not applicable. Weight Based: Not recommended for pediatric use. Max Daily Dose: Not applicable. Max Single Dose: Not applicable. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children (1)
Renal_impairment
The FDA labels for urofollitropin state that safety and effectiveness in women with renal or hepatic insufficiency have not been established. No dose-adjustment figures are provided for either organ system; these products are also no longer commercially marketed in the US (Bravelle was discontinued), so any current use would be under specialist fertility-clinic supervision with an alternative gonadotropin product where possible. (1)
Hepatic_impairment
The FDA labels for urofollitropin state that safety and effectiveness in women with renal or hepatic insufficiency have not been established. No dose-adjustment figures are provided for either organ system; these products are also no longer commercially marketed in the US (Bravelle was discontinued), so any current use would be under specialist fertility-clinic supervision with an alternative gonadotropin product where possible. (1)
Monitoring
(1)Storage
Historical labeling for Bravelle/Fertinex directed storage at controlled room temperature, 15-30°C (59-86°F), protected from light, with reconstituted solution used promptly. As these products are discontinued in the US, current formulations (if compounded or imported) should follow the dispensing pharmacy's specific storage instructions.
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Induction of ovulation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who have failed to ovulate with clomiphene citrate
Dose summary: The recommended starting dose of urofollitropin for women undergoing assisted reproductive technology is 150 to 300 units administered subcutaneously once daily.
Renal context: The FDA labels for urofollitropin products (Bravelle, Fertinex) state that safety and effectiveness in women with renal insufficiency have not been established. No dose-adjustment table exists; treatment in a woman with significant renal impairment should be individualised and supervised by a fertility specialist. (1)
Frequently asked questions
What is urofollitropin used for?
Urofollitropin is used to stimulate the ovaries in women undergoing fertility treatments such as IVF or ovulation induction. It helps promote the growth of eggs in the ovaries.
How is urofollitropin administered?
It is given as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous) or into a muscle (intramuscular), usually once daily, as directed by your fertility specialist.
What are the main risks of urofollitropin?
The main risks include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), multiple pregnancies, and allergic reactions. Close monitoring by your doctor is essential.
Can men use urofollitropin for infertility?
Urofollitropin is not typically used for male infertility. Other gonadotropins or hormonal therapies may be considered for men.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Contact your healthcare provider for instructions. do not take an extra dose.
How will my doctor monitor my response to urofollitropin?
Your doctor will use blood tests and ultrasound scans to monitor your ovarian response and adjust your dose as needed.
Is urofollitropin safe during pregnancy?
Urofollitropin should not be used once pregnancy is confirmed. It is only used to help achieve pregnancy.
What happens if I take too much Urofollitropin?
Taking too much Urofollitropin can lead to severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), characterized by enlarged ovaries, abdominal pain, and fluid accumulation. In extreme cases, OHSS can be life-threatening. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate emergency medical attention. Do not attempt to self-treat or delay seeking professional help.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Urofollitropin?
While there are no direct contraindications between Urofollitropin and moderate alcohol consumption, it is generally advisable to limit or avoid alcohol during fertility treatments. Alcohol can potentially interfere with hormone levels and overall reproductive health, which may impact the effectiveness of Urofollitropin therapy. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding alcohol intake.
What is the mechanism of action of urofollitropin?
Urofollitropin is a purified preparation of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) derived from the urine of postmenopausal women. It binds to FSH receptors on the surface of ovarian granulosa cells, stimulating follicular growth and maturation. This leads to increased estradiol production and development of multiple follicles, which is essential for assisted reproductive technologies. (1)
What is the generic name of Urofollitropin?
The generic name is urofollitropin. It is sold under brand names including Bravelle, Menogon, Urofollitropin, Fertogard, Fostimon, Foligraf.
What class of drug is urofollitropin?
Urofollitropin is classed as: Gonadotropin (Follicle Stimulating Hormone, FSH).
References
- Urofollitropin — Prescribing InformationMedGuideGlobal · Global · accessed 2026-08-03 · source 1
- BRAVELLE (urofollitropin) FDA-approved prescribing informationU.S. Food and Drug Administration · United States · dated 2002 · accessed 2026-08-07 · source 2
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient urofollitropin names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
India
- Lupi FSH75 IU, 150 IU · Lupin