HCG should be used in conjunction with human menopausal gonadotropins only by physicians experienced with infertility problems who are familiar with the criteria for patient selection, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and adverse reactions described in the package insert for menotropins.

Anaphylaxis has been reported with urinary-derived HCG products.

The principal serious adverse reactions during this use are:

(1) Ovarian hyperstimulation, a syndrome of sudden ovarian enlargement, ascites with or without pain, and/or pleural effusion, (2) Rupture of ovarian cysts with resultant hemoperitoneum, (3) Multiple births, and (4) Arterial thromboembolism.

General

Since androgens may cause fluid retention, HCG should be used with caution in patients with cardiac or renal disease, epilepsy, migraine, or asthma.

Pediatric Use

Induction of androgen secretion by HCG may induce precocious puberty in pediatric patients treated for cryptorchidism. Therapy should be discontinued if signs of precocious puberty occur.

Geriatric Use

Clinical studies of PREGNYL® (chorionic gonadotropin for injection, USP) did not include subjects aged 65 and over.

Last reviewed on RxList: 6/13/2011
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.