Cetrotide is administered as a subcutaneous injection. Below are general instructions for proper administration:

1. Preparation:
   • Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the medication.
   • Clean the injection site on your abdomen with an alcohol swab to reduce the risk of infection.
   • Remove the syringe or vial from the refrigerator and allow it to warm to room temperature for a few minutes before injecting.
2. Injection:
   • If using a pre-filled syringe, ensure that the needle is securely attached and the medication is clear and free of particles.
   • Pinch a fold of skin on your abdomen, about 2 inches away from your belly button.
   • Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle and slowly inject the medication.
   • After the injection, remove the needle and dispose of it in a sharps container.
   • Gently massage the injection site if needed to prevent bruising.
3. Disposal:
   • Safely dispose of the syringe and needle in a sharps container to prevent injury.
4. Consistency:
   • It is important to administer the injections at the same time each day to maintain the effectiveness of the medication.

If you miss a dose, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed injection.

Cetrotide works by acting as an antagonist to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which is produced by the hypothalamus and stimulates the pituitary gland to release LH and FSH. LH plays a crucial role in triggering ovulation, and a sudden surge of LH can cause premature ovulation, which is detrimental in the timing of egg retrieval during IVF.

When cetrorelix acetate is injected, it blocks GnRH receptors in the pituitary gland, preventing the release of LH and FSH. By inhibiting the release of LH, Cetrotide ensures that the ovaries do not ovulate prematurely, which is crucial for the timing of egg retrieval during IVF cycles. This precise control over ovulation timing is necessary for successful fertilization and embryo development in ART procedures.

Cetrotide is typically administered during the later part of an ovarian stimulation cycle to prevent ovulation once the ovaries are stimulated by other medications.

While Cetrotide is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects. Common side effects include:

• Injection site reactions: Pain, redness, swelling, or irritation at the injection site.
• Headache or dizziness: Hormonal changes during fertility treatment can cause headaches or dizziness in some patients.
• Abdominal discomfort or bloating: Some women may experience mild cramping or bloating during treatment.
• Mood swings or irritability: Hormonal treatments can sometimes affect mood.
• Nausea: Some patients may experience mild nausea during treatment.
• Allergic reactions: Though rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions, including hives, rash, itching, or more severe symptoms like difficulty breathing. Seek medical help immediately if any severe allergic reactions occur.

Before using Cetrotide, consider the following:

• Pregnancy: Cetrotide is contraindicated during pregnancy and should only be used in women who are not pregnant.
• Breastfeeding: Cetrotide is not recommended for breastfeeding women, as it may affect milk production.
• Allergic reactions: Inform your healthcare provider of any allergies to cetrorelix acetate or other components in the medication.
• Ovarian conditions: Cetrotide should be used cautiously in women with certain ovarian conditions, such as ovarian cysts or abnormalities.

Cetrotide may have potential interactions with other medications, particularly those used in fertility treatments, so it is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications being taken, including:

• Other fertility medications: Cetrotide is often used in conjunction with gonadotropins (such as FSH and LH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which stimulate the ovaries to produce eggs. Cetrotide helps to prevent premature ovulation caused by these medications.
• Hormonal treatments: If you are taking other hormone treatments for any other medical conditions, discuss these with your healthcare provider to ensure there are no contraindications.

Cetrotide is administered via a subcutaneous injection, typically into the abdomen, and the dosage can vary depending on the patient’s specific fertility treatment protocol. The general recommended dosages are as follows:

• Loading dose: A typical starting dose is 3 mg on the day of starting treatment or around day 5 of ovarian stimulation.
• Maintenance dose: After the initial dose, the maintenance dose is generally 0.25 mg per day, which continues until the time of egg retrieval. The maintenance dose can be adjusted based on individual needs and response to ovarian stimulation.

Administration Schedule: Cetrotide is usually administered daily for several days during the ovarian stimulation phase of IVF. It is important to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and administer the injections consistently at the same time each day.

Cetrotide is a prescription-only medication and must be prescribed by a healthcare provider experienced in fertility treatments. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage and treatment schedule based on your specific needs and fertility goals.

1. What is Cetrotide?

Cetrotide is an injectable medication used to prevent premature ovulation during fertility treatments such as IVF.

2. How does Cetrotide work?

It blocks gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptors, preventing luteinizing hormone (LH) surge and premature ovulation.

3. When is Cetrotide given during fertility treatment?

It’s typically started mid-cycle during ovarian stimulation and continued until ovulation trigger.

4. How is Cetrotide administered?

By subcutaneous injection, usually in the abdomen or thigh.

5. Can I self-administer Cetrotide?

Yes, after proper training by a healthcare professional.

6. How long is Cetrotide treatment usually continued?

For several days during ovarian stimulation until the final ovulation trigger.

7. What are the common side effects of Cetrotide?

Injection site reactions, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and fatigue.

8. Can Cetrotide cause allergic reactions?

Yes, though rare, severe allergic reactions can occur.

9. Is Cetrotide safe during pregnancy?

Cetrotide is used before pregnancy to control ovulation; its use during pregnancy is not recommended.

10. Can men use Cetrotide?

It’s intended for women undergoing fertility treatments; use in men is uncommon.

11. How should Cetrotide be stored?

Store refrigerated at 2–8°C (36–46°F), do not freeze, and protect from light.

12. What should I do if I miss a dose?

Contact your healthcare provider for guidance; do not double the next dose.

13. Can Cetrotide be used to prevent ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)?

Yes, it helps reduce the risk by controlling ovulation timing.

14. Are there any drug interactions with Cetrotide?

No major interactions reported, but inform your doctor of all medications.

15. How quickly does Cetrotide work?

Cetrotide acts within hours to suppress LH surge.

16. Is blood monitoring needed during Cetrotide treatment?

Yes, hormone levels and follicle development are monitored regularly.

17. Can Cetrotide be used along with other fertility drugs?

Yes, it is used alongside ovarian stimulants like FSH.

18. What should I do if I have an injection site reaction?

Mild redness and swelling are normal; consult your doctor if severe.

19. Who should not use Cetrotide?

Anyone allergic to Cetrotide or similar peptide drugs should avoid it.

20. How does Cetrotide differ from GnRH agonists?

Cetrotide provides immediate suppression without an initial hormone surge seen with agonists.