What Medicines Are Given During IVF Treatment

The IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) treatment process is a carefully orchestrated series of steps designed to help individuals and couples achieve pregnancy when natural conception is not possible or successful. Central to this process are medications, each playing a crucial role in preparing the body for successful egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo development, and ultimately, implantation.

The IVF treatment process involves several medications, each serving a specific purpose to facilitate the procedure. Here are the main types of medications typically used during IVF:

1. Ovarian Stimulation Medications:

• Gonadotropins: Medications such as Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. Examples include Gonal-F, Follistim, and Menopur.
• Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): Trigger shots like Ovidrel or Pregnyl are used to mature the eggs and prepare them for retrieval.

2. Medications to Prevent Premature Ovulation:

• Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Agonists: Drugs like Lupron are used to prevent the premature release of eggs.
• GnRH Antagonists: Medications such as Ganirelix and Cetrotide are alternatives that prevent premature ovulation by blocking the hormones that trigger it.

3. Medications for Luteal Phase Support:

• Progesterone: Administered to support the uterine lining and facilitate implantation. This can be given as injections (e.g., Progesterone in oil), vaginal gels (e.g., Crinone), or suppositories (e.g., Endometrin).

4. Other Supportive Medications:

• Antibiotics: Sometimes prescribed to prevent infection before egg retrieval.
• Steroids: To reduce inflammation and improve implantation chances.
• Estrogen: Used in some protocols to build up the uterine lining.

Each medication is given at specific stages of the IVF cycle, and the exact protocol can vary based on individual patient needs and the specific protocol used by the fertility clinic. It’s essential to follow the instructions provided by your fertility specialist to ensure the best possible outcomes.