Follistim (FSH)

Follistim is a brand name for follitropin beta, a recombinant form of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) used in fertility treatments. It is commonly prescribed to stimulate egg production in women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF) and to treat certain cases of male infertility.

Uses of Follistim in Infertility Treatment

For Women:

• Ovulation Induction: Helps women who have irregular or absent ovulation, such as those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

• Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation (COH): Used in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like in vitro fertilization (IVF) to produce multiple mature eggs for retrieval.

For Men:

• Male Infertility Treatment: Used in combination with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to stimulate sperm production in men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (a condition where the body doesn’t produce enough hormones to support sperm production).

Dosage & Administration

• Women (Ovarian Stimulation):

  • Initial dose is typically 50–150 IU daily, adjusted based on response.

  • Administered via subcutaneous injection (usually in the abdomen or thigh).

  • Treatment duration varies but often lasts 7–14 days before a trigger shot (hCG) is given for ovulation.

  • Regular monitoring through ultrasound and blood tests is necessary to adjust dosage and prevent complications like OHSS.

• Men (Spermatogenesis Induction):

  • Usually combined with hCG injections.

  • Typical dose: 150 IU three times per week for several months.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, bruising)

• Headache

• Bloating

• Mild abdominal discomfort

Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Help if Noticed):

• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) – Symptoms include severe bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, and rapid weight gain.

• Blood clots (rare but serious)

• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

Comparison to Other Fertility Medications

• Follistim vs. Gonal-F – Both contain recombinant FSH and work similarly, but they have different injection devices and minor formulation differences.

• Follistim vs. Menopur – Menopur contains both FSH and LH, whereas Follistim is purely FSH. Menopur is sometimes preferred for patients with lower LH levels.