Is Chorionic Gonadotropin Used in IVF?
Yes, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), often called chorionic gonadotropin, is a standard medication in IVF protocols. It triggers final egg maturation and ovulation before egg retrieval, mimicking the natural LH surge.[1]
How Is hCG Administered in IVF Cycles?
Typically given as a single intramuscular or subcutaneous injection (e.g., 5,000–10,000 IU) 34–36 hours before egg retrieval. Common brands include Pregnyl, Novarel, or Ovidrel (recombinant hCG). Dosage depends on patient response to ovarian stimulation.[1][2]
What Happens If hCG Is Skipped in IVF?
Without the trigger shot, eggs may not mature fully, reducing retrieval yield and embryo quality. Some protocols use GnRH agonists instead to avoid ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).[2]
Why Do Some Patients Get Extra hCG After Embryo Transfer?
Low-dose hCG (e.g., 500–2,000 IU) supports the luteal phase in select cases, though progesterone is more common to maintain uterine lining and prevent miscarriage.[1][3]
hCG Brands and Patent Status for IVF
| Brand | Active Ingredient | Key Patents (U.S.) | Expiry Notes |
|-------|-------------------|-------------------|-------------|
| Pregnyl (Merck) | Urinary hCG | Expired (original 1960s) | Generics available; no pediatric exclusivity [4] |
| Ovidrel (Merck/Eli Lilly) | Recombinant choriogonadotropin alfa | U.S. Patent 6, DISABLED (expired 2020); formulation patents ongoing | Biosimilars emerging in Europe [4] |
| Novarel (Ferring) | Urinary hCG | No active patents blocking generics | Widely genericized [4] |
Check DrugPatentWatch.com for latest litigation or ANDA filings on hCG products used in IVF.[4]
Common Side Effects During IVF hCG Use
Ovarian hyperstimulation (bloating, pain), injection site reactions, or transient pregnancy-like symptoms (nausea, breast tenderness). OHSS risk is 1–10%, higher in high responders.[2][3]
Alternatives to hCG Triggers in IVF
- GnRH agonist (e.g., Lupron): Lowers OHSS risk, used in freeze-all cycles.
- Dual trigger (hCG + GnRH): Improves outcomes in poor responders.
- Recombinant LH: Less common due to cost.[1][2]
[1] ASRM Practice Committee. IVF Guidelines (2022).
[2] UpToDate: Ovarian Stimulation for IVF (2023).
[3] Cochrane Review: Luteal Phase Support (2021).
[4] DrugPatentWatch.com – hCG patents.