Cetrotide is a prescription medication containing cetrorelix acetate, used primarily in fertility treatments. This medication belongs to a class called Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Antagonists, which play a crucial role in preventing premature ovulation during assisted reproductive procedures.
Cetrorelix helps women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) by allowing eggs to develop properly, increasing the chances of successful egg retrieval and fertilization.
What is Cetrorelix?
Cetrorelix is a synthetic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist used in assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). It works by inhibiting the release of luteinizing hormone (LH), thereby preventing premature ovulation during controlled ovarian stimulation.
Brand Name: Cetrotide (cetrorelix acetate) Route of Administration: Subcutaneous injection
What are the Uses of Cetrorelix?
Cetrorelix offers significant benefits in fertility treatments by providing precise control over the reproductive process. Its primary function is to prevent premature ovulation, allowing eggs to develop fully before retrieval in assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).
This medication is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist, and one of the key cetrorelix injection uses is to block the LH surge that can lead to early ovulation, thereby optimizing the chances of successful egg retrieval.
Conditions Cetrorelix Treats
The main condition treated with Cetrorelix is female infertility, particularly during controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). It helps fertility specialists regulate the timing of ovulation and egg maturation with precision.
In clinical practice, cetrorelix acetate injection 0.25 mg is commonly used in daily IVF protocols to maintain consistent hormonal suppression during critical phases of stimulation.
Secondary Uses of Cetrorelix
While Cetrorelix is primarily used in fertility treatments, it may also be included in hormonal therapy protocols where precise regulation of gonadotropins is required. Its fast-acting and direct antagonistic mechanism makes it valuable in treatment plans that demand strict hormonal control and ovulation timing.
How Does Cetrorelix Work?
Cetrorelix works by competitively binding to GnRH receptors in the pituitary gland, blocking the natural GnRH from activating these receptors. This prevents the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland.
This mechanism effectively stops the LH surge that would normally trigger ovulation, allowing for controlled follicular development during fertility treatments. The medication's antagonist action is immediate and does not cause an initial stimulation effect, unlike GnRH agonists.
Cetrorelix Adverse Event Schedule
Adverse Event
Cetrorelix Schedule A
Cetrorelix Schedule B
Multiple Dose (n = 635)
Single Dose (n = 187)
Multiple Dose (n = 86)
Single Dose (n = 39)
Genitourinary (Ovarian disorder)
28
4
7
3
Neurological (Headache)
8
0
7
1
Gastrointestinal (Nausea)
8
2
1
0
How to Use the Cetrorelix Kit?
Before starting Cetrorelix, read the Patient information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification on any doubts.
Instructions
Shake the vial gently before use.
Inject the medication under the skin (subcutaneously) as directed by your doctor, typically once daily.
Administer the injection into the stomach area, at least one inch away from the belly button.
Rotate injection sites to minimize skin damage.
Follow your doctor's instructions on timing and duration of treatment.
Store and dispose of medical supplies properly.
Cetrorelix Dosage
Cetrorelix is administered as a subcutaneous injection with specific dosing protocols depending on the treatment plan designed by your fertility specialist.
For Adult: Dosage Forms and Strengths
Injectable solution
0.25mg
3mg
Infertility treatment
Single-dose regimen should be 3 mg SC, serum estradiol levels show appropriate stimulation response which is day 7; if hCG not administered within 4 days, continue dose at 0.25 mg/day until hCG administered
Multiple-dose regimen
0.25 mg SC two times a day, morning or evening of stimulation day 5 or morning of stimulation day 6; continue until hCG administered
For Pediatric use, it is not recommended
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Cetrorelix?
If you miss a dose of Cetrorelix, contact your healthcare provider immediately for guidance. The timing of doses is critical for successful fertility treatment, and your doctor will advise you on the appropriate action to take.
What Happens if an Overdose?
There have been no reports of overdosage with cetrorelix acetate in humans. Single doses up to 120 mg have been well tolerated in patients treated for other indications without signs of overdosage. However, if you suspect an overdose, contact medical services immediately.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
What are the Side Effects of Cetrorelix(Cetrotide)?
Most patients tolerate Cetrotide well, with side effects typically being mild and transient. However, understanding potential adverse reactions is important.
Severe allergic reactions: rash, itching, swelling (especially of face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing
If you experience any severe or persistent symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Precautions and Warnings
Who Should Avoid Cetrotide
Cetrorelix should not be used by:
Pregnant women or women who suspect they might be pregnant
Women with known hypersensitivity to cetrorelix acetate, mannitol, or similar peptide hormones
Women with severe kidney disease
Conditions Where Caution is Needed
Exercise caution when using Cetrorelix if you have:
A history of allergic reactions
Kidney disease
Liver disease
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Cetrotide?
Cetrotide is approved for adult women of reproductive age undergoing fertility treatments. It is not indicated for use in pediatric patients.
Alcohol or Food Interactions
There are no specific food or alcohol restrictions when taking Cetrotide. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is recommended during fertility treatments.
Possible Interactions with Other Medications
Cetrorelix may alter the effectiveness of other hormone therapies or interact with supplements that affect pituitary function.
Drug interactions: Always inform your doctor of all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.
Supplements/herbals: Products containing phytoestrogens or other hormone-modulating agents may require dose adjustments.
How Should Cetrorelix Be Stored?
Proper storage helps preserve the effectiveness and safety of Cetrorelix throughout its shelf life. Keep it in recommended conditions to prevent loss of potency or degradation.
Recommended Storage Temperature
Store Cetrotide in the refrigerator between 2-8°C (36-46°F). Keep the packaged tray in the outer carton to protect from light.
What Happens If Cetrotide Is Not Stored Properly?
Improper storage can reduce the effectiveness of the medication. If Cetrorelix is not stored correctly, it may degrade and become less potent or ineffective. If you suspect the medication has not been stored properly, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider before using it.
Keep Cetrorelix away from children, direct sunlight, and moisture. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the package. Follow local regulations for proper disposal of
Possible side effects include pelvic pain or swelling, nausea, vomiting, weight gain, less frequent urination, rashes, itching, trouble breathing, dizziness, headache, and skin redness at the injection site.
In IVF treatments, Cetrorelix is used to prevent a premature surge of the LH hormone. This helps control the timing of ovulation, which is crucial for a successful IVF cycle.
Cetrotide should be taken every 24 hours. If you miss the exact time, taking it later the same day usually doesn’t cause serious issues. Just avoid missing a full day.
Follow your doctor’s advice about any restrictions related to food, drinks, or activities during treatment.
Cetrorelix may interact with other medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products. Always tell your healthcare provider about everything you’re taking.
Cetrotide works by delaying ovulation, and its effect can last at least four days after a single 3 mg dose. It specifically blocks the LH hormone without affecting FSH levels at the usual treatment doses.
Cetrorelix Acetate Injection 0.25 mg is used in assisted reproductive treatments (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), to prevent premature ovulation. It works by blocking the release of luteinizing hormone (LH), which helps control the timing of ovulation. This ensures that eggs are retrieved at the optimal time during fertility procedures, increasing the chances of successful fertilization. The injection is usually administered once daily under medical supervision during specific days of the IVF cycle.
there is no difference in the active ingredient—Cetrotide is the brand name, and Cetrorelix is the generic name of the same drug. Both contain Cetrorelix acetate, a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist used in fertility treatments to prevent premature ovulation during controlled ovarian stimulation in IVF cycles. Cetrotide is simply the commercial brand marketed by Merck Serono, while Cetrorelix may be available under various generic or branded versions, depending on the manufacturer. Both work the same way and are typically used in identical dosages (e.g., 0.25 mg daily) under a fertility specialist’s guidance.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.
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