Drug Notes

Cetrorelix (By injection)

Cetrorelix (se-troe-REL-ix)

Prevents premature ovulation in women who are undergoing fertility treatments with controlled ovulation.

Brand Name(s):

Cetrotide

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot under your skin.
• A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• This medicine is usually injected into the lower abdomen, near the navel.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose: The timing of when you use this medicine is very important in how well it will work. Use the medicine on the exact day and at the exact time your doctor has ordered. If you miss a dose, call your doctor for instructions.
• Do not open the medicine package or mix the medicine until you are ready to use an injection.
• If you are using the Cetrotide? 3 mg dose, store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light.
• If you are using the Cetrotide? 0.25 mg dose, store the medicine in the refrigerator.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Discuss the risk of birth defects from this medicine with your doctor. A few women who have used this medicine had babies with birth defects, but it is not possible to know for sure if the medicine was the cause.
• Along with using this medicine, you will need to visit your doctor for regular tests and procedures. It may take several months for you to become pregnant.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Increase in how often or how much you urinate
• Nausea with vomiting, stomach pain, or diarrhea
• Pain or swelling in your lower abdomen
• Trouble breathing, chest pain, fast heartbeat

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Redness, swelling, itching, or bruising where the shot is given

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017