Also Known as Puregon in Canada
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A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Follistim AQ (Follicle Stimulating Hormone, recombinant), a synthetic version of the naturally occurring follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), is utilized primarily in fertility treatments. This medication is essential in the processes of ovulation and spermatogenesis. Follistim AQ is specifically designed to help women who struggle with infertility due to an insufficient production of hormones necessary for the maturation of eggs. It is also employed in men for the stimulation of sperm production.
Before you buy Follistim AQ, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and Follistim AQ cost.
Fact Table | |
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Formula | C974H1513N253O288S9 |
License | FDA approved |
Bioavailability | Not applicable (administered via injection) |
Legal status | Prescription Drugs |
Chemical Name | Recombinant Human Follicle Stimulating Hormone (rhFSH) |
Elimination half-life | 32-48 hours (intravenous), approximately 24 hours (subcutaneous) |
Dosage (Strength) | Available in 300 IU, 600 IU, and 900 IU cartridges for injection |
Pregnancy | Category X (Should not be used during pregnancy) |
Brands | Follistim AQ |
Protein binding | Not applicable |
PubChem CID | Not available |
MedlinePlus | Not listed |
ChEBI | Not available |
ATC code | G03GA05 |
DrugBank | DB00066 |
KEGG | Not available |
Routes of administration | Subcutaneous, Intramuscular |
Follistim AQ comes in a pre-filled, ready-to-use injection pen or vial form. The medication is administered via subcutaneous (under the skin) or intramuscular injection, depending on medical advice.
Preparation and Administration:
If using the vial, ensure the liquid is clear and free of particles. If using the pen, follow the provided instructions to attach the needle and prime the pen.
Choose an injection site, typically the abdomen or thigh.
Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it dry.
Administer the prescribed dose as directed by your healthcare provider.
Dispose of needles and syringes in a proper sharps container.
Dosage:
Dosage is highly individualized based on patient response and is determined by the treating physician. Regular monitoring through blood tests and ultrasound is required to adjust dosage and minimize the risk of side effects.
Active Ingredient: Follitropin beta (recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone).
Follistim AQ cartridge should not be used by patients with primary ovarian failure, uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction, tumors of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus, and abnormal uterine bleeding of unknown origin.
Use with caution in patients with a history of ovarian cysts or polycystic ovary syndrome.
Only use under the supervision of a healthcare provider experienced in fertility treatments.
Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking as Follistim AQ can interact with other drugs, particularly those used to stimulate ovulation. The use of Follistim AQ with clomiphene citrate or gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists requires careful monitoring to prevent excessive ovarian stimulation.
Common side effects include:
What is the main use of Follistim AQ?
It is used to treat infertility in women by stimulating the ovaries to produce eggs and in men to stimulate sperm production.
How is Follistim AQ administered?
It is administered through subcutaneous or intramuscular injections using a pre-filled pen or vial.
Can Follistim AQ be used during pregnancy?
Follistim AQ should not be used during pregnancy as its effects during pregnancy are not thoroughly studied and it is intended for use in the treatment of infertility.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Contact your healthcare provider for instructions if you miss a dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.
How should Follistim AQ be stored?
Store in the refrigerator; do not freeze. Keep away from light, and use within the expiration date on the label.
Can men use Follistim AQ?
Yes, it is also used to treat certain conditions of infertility in men, particularly those related to low sperm count.
Are there any dietary restrictions while using Follistim AQ?
There are no specific dietary restrictions while using Follistim AQ, but it's important to maintain a balanced diet and consult your healthcare provider.
What are the possible side effects of Follistim AQ?
Side effects can range from mild, such as headaches and nausea, to severe, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
Can Follistim AQ cause multiple births?
Yes, the use of Follistim AQ may increase the chance of multiple births due to the stimulation of multiple eggs.
Who should not use Follistim AQ?
Individuals with primary ovarian failure, uncontrolled adrenal or thyroid disorders, pituitary or hypothalamic tumors, and abnormal uterine bleeding should not use this medication.