This medication is used by women having certain
fertility treatments (controlled ovarian stimulation). Cetrorelix is
usually used in combination with other hormones (FSH and hCG). It works by
blocking the release of a certain hormone (luteinizing hormone). Cetrorelix
stops eggs from being released too early and gives the eggs time to grow
properly.
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from
your pharmacist before you start using cetrorelix and each time you get a
refill. Ask your health care professional how to prepare and use this
medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or
pharmacist.
Inject this medication under the skin as directed by
your doctor, usually once a day for several days. The injection is given in
the stomach area, at least one inch away from the belly button. Carefully
follow your doctor's instructions on when to start and stop this
medication.
Follow the instructions for adding the mixing liquid to
the medication. Gently swirl the vial to mix. Once mixed, use the liquid
right away.
Before using, check this product for particles or
discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before
injecting each dose, clean the skin you are going to inject into (the
injection site) with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time
to lessen injury under the skin. To lessen bruising, do not rub the
injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical
supplies safely.
Use this medication exactly as directed by your doctor
to get the most benefit from it. Do not increase your dose or use this drug
more often or for longer than prescribed.
Nausea, headache, or
pain/bruising/redness/swelling/itching at the injection site may occur. If
any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
This medication may cause a condition known as ovarian
hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). This condition may occur during or after
treatment. Rarely, serious OHSS causes fluid to suddenly build up in the
stomach, chest, and heart area. Get medical help right away if you develop
the following side effects: severe pain or swelling in the lower abdominal
(pelvic) area, severe nausea/vomiting, sudden/rapid weight gain, or
decreased urination.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, such as:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice any other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using cetrorelix, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or to other products containing gonadotropin
releasing hormone (GnRH); or if you have any other allergies. This product
may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or
other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- history of severe allergic reactions
- kidney disease
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (such as prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
Stop using this medication when you become pregnant.
This medication must not be used during pregnancy. If you think you may be
pregnant, tell your doctor right away.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk.
Because of the possible risk to the infant, breastfeeding is not
recommended while using this drug. Consult your doctor before
breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (such as prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as vaginal ultrasound,
hormone levels) may be done while you are using this medication. Keep all
medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more
details.
It is important to get each dose of this medication as
scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for
a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Different brands of this medication have different
storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store
your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children
and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.