Follitropin Alfa

What it is and how it works

Mechanism of Action GONAL-f stimulates ovarian follicular growth in women who do not have primary ovarian failure. In order to bring about final maturation of the follicle and ovulation in the absence of an endogenous LH surge, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) must be given, following the administration of GONAL-f, when monitoring of the patient indicates that sufficient follicular development is achieved. GONAL-f stimulates spermatogenesis in men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism when administered with hCG.

Indications

GONAL-f is indicated for: GONAL-f is a gonadotropin indicated for: Women: Induction of ovulation and pregnancy in oligo-anovulatory infertile women for whom the cause of infertility is functional and not due to primary ovarian failure. Development of multiple follicles in ovulatory infertile women as part of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) cycles. Men: Induction of spermatogenesis in infertile men with primary and secondary hypogonadotropic hypogonadism for whom the cause of infertility is not due to primary testicular failure. Induction of ovulation and pregnancy in oligo-anovulatory infertile women for whom the cause of infertility is functional and not due to primary ovarian failure. Development of multiple follicles in ovulatory infertile women as part of an assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycle. Induction of spermatogenesis in infertile men with primary and secondary hypogonadotropic hypogonadism for whom the cause of infertility is not due to primary testicular failure.

Dosage and administration (summary)

Induction of Ovulation Initial starting dose of the first cycle - 75 International Units of GONAL-f per day for 14 days, administered subcutaneously Individualize doses after 14 days Do not administer doses greater than 300 International Units per day Development of Multiple Follicles in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Initial starting dose of the first cycle - 150 International Units per day, administered subcutaneously Dosage adjustments after 3 to 5 days and by 75 to 150 International Units at each adjustment Do not administer doses greater than 450 International Units per day Males with Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism and Azoospermia Use in conjunction with hCG.

Contraindications

GONAL-f is contraindicated in women and men who exhibit: Prior hypersensitivity to recombinant FSH products or one of their excipients. Reactions have included anaphylaxis High levels of FSH indicating primary gonadal failure The presence of uncontrolled non-gonadal endocrinopathies (for example, thyroid, adrenal, or pituitary disorders) Sex hormone dependent tumors of the reproductive tract and accessory organs Tumors of pituitary gland or hypothalamus GONAL-f is also contraindicated in women w…

Warnings and precautions

Hypersensitivity Reactions and Anaphylaxis: If occurs, initiate appropriate therapy including supportive measures, and discontinue GONAL-f Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome: If serious, stop gonadotropins, including hCG, and determine if the woman needs to be hospitalized. Treatment is primarily symptomatic and consists of bed rest, fluid and electrolyte management, and analgesics Pulmonary and Vascular Complications: In women with recognized risk factors, the benefits of induction of ovulation and ART need to be weighed against the risks.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Risk Summary GONAL-f is not indicated in pregnant women. The incidence of congenital malformations after some Assisted Reproductive Technology, specifically in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), may be slightly higher than that after spontaneous conception.

Storage and supply

Storage and Handling Store vials refrigerated between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) or at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Store reconstituted solution refrigerated between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) or at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and discard unused portion after 28 days. Protect from light .

Source: Follitropin Alfa (Gonal-F) — US FDA prescribing information, 2025-09-02, DailyMed. Summarised and shortened; the full label governs. Iranian registration, indications and labelling may differ.