See the DrugPatentWatch profile for ovidrel
What side effects can Ovidrel (hCG) cause?
Ovidrel (choriogonadotropin alfa; hCG) is used to trigger ovulation. Common side effects tend to be related to hormone effects and injection-site reactions. Patients may experience:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal bloating or discomfort
- Injection-site reactions (pain, redness, swelling)
- Fatigue
More serious risks are linked to ovarian stimulation, especially if the dose is too high or if a patient has risk factors for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
What is OHSS, and how serious can it be?
OHSS (ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome) is one of the most important side effects to watch for after hCG trigger injections. It can range from mild to life-threatening. Symptoms may include:
- Rapid weight gain
- Swollen or distended abdomen
- Severe pelvic/abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting that do not improve
Call a clinician urgently or seek emergency care if symptoms are severe, worsening, or accompanied by shortness of breath or signs of dehydration.
Are there allergy or injection reactions?
As with many injectable medicines, allergic reactions can occur. Seek urgent care for:
- Hives, rash, itching
- Facial/lip swelling
- Trouble breathing
- Severe dizziness or fainting
What should patients do if they have symptoms?
Patients are usually advised to contact their prescribing fertility clinic promptly if they develop:
- Moderate-to-severe abdominal pain or bloating
- Rapid weight gain
- Persistent vomiting
- Any signs of breathing difficulty or allergic reaction
Is Ovidrel linked to multiple pregnancy or complications?
Ovidrel can increase the chance of multiple pregnancy when used to trigger ovulation, depending on follicle development and how many eggs are released. Multiple pregnancy is a risk because the medication helps stimulate ovulation, not because it directly causes birth defects.
What other risks depend on who takes it?
The likelihood and severity of side effects like OHSS depend on individual factors such as:
- How many follicles/eggs developed before the trigger shot
- Previous history of OHSS
- PCOS or other conditions that increase ovarian response
- Other fertility medications used alongside Ovidrel
If you tell me your age, whether you have PCOS, what fertility meds you’re using, and when you took Ovidrel (and your current symptoms), I can help you judge which side effects are most likely and what level of urgency makes sense.