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What are the side effects of Follitropin (Follistim, Gonal-F)?

Follitropin alfa or follitropin beta (brand names Gonal-F or Follistim) are drugs that can be used to treat infertility. Infertility is described as the inability to conceive a baby within one year of trying.

Follitropin is a hormone that is identical to follicle-stimulating hormone or FSH. FSH helps with the development of eggs in the ovaries. Follitropin helps women who are unable to become pregnant due to problems with ovulation. Other uses include increasing sperm count in men dealing with fertility issues.

Side effects of follitropin can include itching at injection site, bloating, diarrhea, gas, aches, runny nose, cough, fever, weakness, acne, spotting, breast tenderness, mood swings, and tiredness. Talk to your doctor if side effects worsen or become severe. Be sure to notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects: confusion, swelling, increased heartbeat, nasal discharge, or difficulty breathing.

Tell your doctor right away if you notice severe abdominal pain, nausea, rapid weight gain, and vomiting as this could indicate a syndrome called ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). This occurs when the ovaries become overstimulated by the medication.

If you are having difficulty becoming pregnant, be sure to talk to your doctor about what the best treatment is for you.

Sources:
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2007.Drugs and Supplements, "Follitropin Alfa (Systemic)." http://www.mayoclinic.com. Mayo Clinic Health. Last accessed 2/14/2007.
Drugs and Supplements, "Follitropin Beta (Systemic)." http://www.mayoclinic.com. Mayo Clinic Health. Last accessed 2/14/2007.
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2007.

This answer prepared 2/14/2007.

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