Medications should always be taken as directed by your physician. However, I understand that this is not always so simple and that side effects can sometimes interfere with adherence. The following chart was designed to provide some helpful suggestions to overcome some common side effects that may be encountered during fertility drugs. Not all of the possible reactions from these medications are included in this chart. Please contact you health care provider if you have any questions.
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Symptoms/Side Effects |
Comments/Suggestions |
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Pelvic pain, nausea and vomiting |
These may be early warning signs of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). OHSS occurs when too many follicles are stimulated, causing the ovary to become enlarged. When any of these symptoms occur, it is important that your fertility doctor is contacted immediately. If left untreated, OHSS can quickly worsen and develop into a serious medical condition. It is important to know that this condition can occur even days after drug therapy has been stopped. |
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Hot flashes, bloating, abdominal cramping, mood changes, and breast tenderness |
These symptoms occur with many of the fertility medications because of the hormone changes that they produce. The symptoms are similar to those experienced by premenopausal women. If these symptoms develop, please contact your fertility specialist who may be able to adjust your medication dose or particular medications in order to help eliminate or decrease these effects. Also note that abdominal cramping and bloating may be early warning signs for OHSS. |
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Blurring of vision, spots and flashes in the visual field |
Contact your physician for further evaluation if you experience any of these symptoms. These symptoms usually disappear after the drug has been discontinued. Remember that caution should be taken when operating a vehicle if you have developed any visual changes. |
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Pain, redness, or bruising at the injection site |
If these symptoms develop it is recommended that your physician, nurse, or pharmacist review your injection technique. Some techniques to minimize injection pain are:
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Irritation of the skin at the injection site |
Varying the injection site and the application of moisturizing lotion can reduce injection site irritation. If these symptoms occur you should contact your physician, nurse, or pharmacist for review of your injection technique. |
| Dry cervical mucus |
Clomiphene may interfere with the cervical mucus glands causing a decrease in the amount of the body’s mucus production. See your physician for evaluation if you develop this condition. It may be treated with the addition of estrogen to your therapy. |
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Rash, hives, swelling, rapid heart rate, and shortness of breath |
It is recommended that you seek medical attention immediately since these symptoms may indicate that you are having an allergic reaction. |
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