HCG - Pregnyl 1500 (human chorionic gonadotropin)
What is HCG?
Human Chrionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone used for treating infertility in men and women. The drug works by supporting the development of eggs in the ovaryof a owmen as well as increasing the sperm count in men. In some cases, the drug is also used in adolescents where their testicles have not developed normally.
Precautions/side effects of HCG Pregnyl-1500
Patients allergic to HCG should refrain from using this drug. Other than that, patients with prostate cancer or precocious puberty should also refrain from using this drug. Patients with heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, thyroid disorder, epilepsy or breast cancer should take this drug only after consultation with a doctor.
The drug is also known to react with certain medications which include over the counter medicines, herbal products, vitamin supplements as well as certain prescription medicines. Patients on any other prescription medicines or taking herbal products or vitamin supplements should inform their doctor accordingly before taking HCG.
HCG Pregnyl 1500 is a Category C pregnancy drug. Thus, it is known to have adverse effects on the newborn as well as the fetus. Hence, pregnant women as well as women who are breastfeeding should refrain from taking HCG Pregnyl-1500.
The drug is also known to have certain side effects such as irritability, headache, pain at the site of the injection, depression, unusual weight gain etc. However, in certain cases, some serious side effects may show up to the drug such as pain in the pelvis, pain the abdomen, breathlessness, diarrhea, inflammation of the hands or legs, confusion, blood clotting etc. Many of these symptoms are associated with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome which is a potentially fatal condition. Thus, if you notice any of these symptoms after taking HCG, a doctor should be consulted immediately.
Important safety information
- The drug increases the chances of multiple pregnancies which can be a life threatening condition. A doctor's advice should be paid full heed to in case the mother gets pregnant after the use of the drug.
Dosage of HCG Pregnyl 1500
HCG is available as 10 ml vials. The drug is to be administered under the skin or muscle. It should never be administered intravenously. It can be self administered once the physician explains the correct method of administration. The usual dosage of the drug is 5000 USP thrice every week on every alternate day. However, the actual dosage may vary depending on the diagnosis.
A new syringe should be used every time the drug is administered. The drug should not be administered in the same area of the body consecutively. Some good areas for administration of the drug are arms and thighs.
Overdose of the drug should be avoided at all costs. If a dose is missed, it should be had as soon as possible. However, it should not be clubbed with the next dose. Overdose of the drug can lead to severe symptoms such as diarrhea, confusion, blood clotting etc. which require immediate medical attention.
Storage of HCG (Pregnyl)
HCG should be stored at room temperature in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight. It should be stored out of reach of children and pets at all times.
