Indications  

Cetrotide is a prescription medication that helps prevent premature luteinizing hormone (LH) surges in women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation, a fertility treatment aimed at stimulating the ovaries to produce more eggs. 

Classified as a Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone Antagonist, Cetrotide functions by inhibiting the release of LH, thereby preventing premature egg release, and facilitating optimal egg maturation. 

Uses and Dosage 

Cetrotide treatment typically begins on day 5 or 6 of ovarian stimulation and continues until the evening before or the morning of the planned ovulation induction. 

Due to the potential for severe allergic reactions, the initial administration of Cetrotide should be conducted by an experienced fertility doctor with close patient monitoring for 30 minutes. Subsequent injections can be self-administered by the patient, provided they are educated about allergic reaction signs and the appropriate response. 

The usual dose of Cetrotide is 0.25 mg, administered subcutaneously in the lower abdomen once daily, either in the morning or evening. The doctor may adjust the dose based on individual responses. 

When self-administering injections, follow this step-by-step procedure: 

1. Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water. 
2. Remove the plastic cover from the vial and clean the aluminum ring and rubber stopper with an alcohol swab. 
3. Attach the 20-gauge injection needle (marked with yellow) to the pre-filled syringe. 
4. Insert the needle through the vial’s rubber stopper and inject the solvent slowly. 
5. Gently agitate the vial while leaving the syringe attached until the solution is clear and without bubbles. 
6. Draw the entire contents of the vial into the syringe, inverting if necessary to withdraw all contents. 
7. Replace the yellow-marked needle with the grey-marked injection needle (27 gauge). 
8. Flip the syringe and push the plunger until all air bubbles are gone. 
9. Clean the skin at the injection site with the second alcohol swab and gently pinch the surrounding skin. 
10. Insert the needle at a 45-degree angle into the skin until it is fully in place. 
11. Release your grip on the skin once the needle is completely inserted. 
12. To ensure proper needle placement, gently pull back the syringe plunger.  
    1. If no blood appears, slowly inject the solution by pushing the plunger. After injection, press an alcohol swab on the site.  
    2. If blood appears, discard the syringe and vial, and repeat with a new pack.  
13. Dispose of used syringes and needles properly in a medical waste container. Only use each syringe and needle once. 

For the best results, use Cetrotide exactly as directed by your doctor. Refrain from increasing your dosage or using this medication more frequently or longer than prescribed. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects that may arise from using Cetrotide. Notify your doctor if you encounter any persistent or aggravated side effects. 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea 
• Headache 
• Redness, bruising, itching, or swelling at the injection site 

Serious Side Effects 

• Stomach pain 
• Bloating 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Rapid weight gain, particularly in the face and midsection 
• Reduced or absent urine output 
• Painful breathing 
• Elevated heart rate 
• Shortness of breath 

Call your doctor right away if you experience any of the severe side effects listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Occurrence of severe allergic reaction to Cetrotide is uncommon; however, seek immediate medical assistance if any signs of severe allergic reaction are observed, such as: 

• Rash 
• Itching or swelling (face, tongue, throat) 
• Severe dizziness 
• Difficulty breathing 

This is not an exhaustive list of Cetrotide‘s side effects. If you experience any unlisted effects, tell your physician immediately. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Cetrotide, inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies you have, including to cetrorelix or other products containing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). 

Inactive ingredients in the product may also cause allergic reactions or other issues. Consult with your pharmacist for further information. 

To ensure Cetrotide is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical background, specifically if you have a history of severe allergies or kidney disease. 

Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, other dietary supplements, and herbal products, to minimize the possibility of drug interactions that could impact the efficacy of Cetrotide or elevate the likelihood of adverse effects. 

Discontinue the use of Cetrotide once pregnancy is confirmed, as this medication should not be used during pregnancy. If you suspect you might be pregnant, promptly inform your doctor. 

Breastfeeding while using Cetrotide is not advised due to the unknown possibility of cetrorelix passing into breast milk and potential harm to the infant. Consult with your doctor for appropriate guidance.