It’s Time For Fertility Medication
Optimal fertility for men and women depends on the right balance of hormones responsible for producing eggs and sperm. Fertility medication, therefore, is essential for addressing challenges with conceiving. Infertility, or the inability to conceive naturally, impacts millions of couples. Some need support in the form of hormone medication to increase the chances of conception. Fertility medication, for instance, plays an essential role in assisted reproductive technology (ART), a series of techniques that handle egg and sperm outside the body to increase pregnancy rates. These drugs are provided by pharmacists, who can play a crucial role in guiding patients toward effective use. Fertility drugs are mainly used by women, but men can benefit in certain cases. Asking pharmacists critical questions can ensure optimal medication adherence and pave the way for a successful pregnancy.
Reasons to use fertility medication
Hormones govern the effective function of reproductive organs. Specific hormone imbalances can lead to poor fertility or difficulty conceiving. Fertility medication can address these imbalances, restoring optimal function. Ovulation disorders in women and sperm dysfunction in men can benefit from fertility medication. Fertility medication is also helpful for cases of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in women or if the reasons for infertility are unclear or unexplained. Perhaps the most frequent use of fertility medication comes from ART strategies. Women and couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) use fertility drugs to stimulate the production of multiple eggs needed for successful fertilization, embryo production, and implantation. Before the first dose is administered, ask the pharmacist these 3 important questions.
1. How do I administer and store fertility medication?
The patient will receive a prescription from the fertility clinic or reproductive endocrinologist (RE) to take over a set period. The pharmacist will dispense the medication to the patient with specific instructions on use and storage. Most fertility medications are used daily around the same time. Some are oral, while others are taken via subcutaneous injection. If a patient misses a dose, do not double the dosage the following day. Speak to the pharmacist for more advice. Storing fertility medication is equally important, as some require refrigeration to maintain potency and effectiveness. Follow the instructions carefully, especially with injectable drugs, for the best results.
2. Are there potential side effects?
All medications come with side effects, and fertility drugs are no exception. Understanding and managing these side effects ensures patients can use medication comfortably and effectively. Hormone medication can lead to bloating, mood swings, headaches, and hot flashes. Women undergoing IVF should be aware of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), where the drugs can lead to overstimulation and fluid in the ovaries. These symptoms can be managed with rest and lifestyle modifications. Severe pain, discomfort, or sudden weight fluctuations can be signs of more severe complications. Seek medical advice from the fertility team immediately.
3. Are there drug interactions or contradictions?
Fertility drugs, like other prescription medications, run the risk of negatively interacting with other essential drugs or supplements. For instance, transitioning from birth control to hormone medication must be managed. Contraceptives interfere with the effectiveness of fertility medication. Drugs like blood thinners, thyroid medication, and diabetes treatment can interact negatively with fertility medication. Pharmacists advise that patients disclose all prescription drugs and supplements before starting fertility treatment. The pharmacist can work with the fertility team to tailor treatment to meet the individual needs of the patient.
The road to pregnancy starts with fertility medication
Fertility medication plays an important role in addressing infertility challenges. Whether to improve pregnancy rates or as a part of IVF, taking fertility drugs improves success rates or helps with embryo production. The process can be overwhelming, especially for first-time users. Fertility drugs require a short window, so adherence is key. Working with a pharmacist ensures the safe, effective use of oral or injectable hormones.
