Each IVF clinic, Fertility Doctor, and Surrogate will have different protocols and require different medications. We have compiled a list of the most commonly used medications. It’s important to us that you understand the medications you are being given and the possible side effects.
Some Surrogate Mothers do not experience any side effects, as every Surrogate responds differently to the medications prescribed. Please talk to your IVF doctor or nurse to learn more about the protocol you are given.
Doxycycline
Doxycycline is a pre-cycle antibiotic that helps to prevent pelvic infection. It comes in tablet form to be taken orally.
You can learn more about Doxycycline on Drugs.com.
Lupron (leuprolide acetate)
Lupron suppresses the pituitary stimulation to the ovaries by preventing the normal hormone exchange that causes follicle production and ovulation. Lupron is given by injection into the fatty tissue (subcutaneously).
The most common side effects of Lupron include headache, fatigue, and hot flashes.
You can learn more about Lupron on Drugs.com.
Low Dose Aspirin (Baby Aspirin)
Aspirin is administered to help with cycle stimulation and embryo implantation. You will take a pill, orally. Usually, a Gestational Surrogate takes aspirin until 12 weeks of pregnancy.
The most common side effects of Low Does Aspirin is upset stomach, heartburn, a tendency to bruise.
You can learn more about Aspirin on Drugs.com.
Vivelle Patches (estradiol)
Vivelle Patches administer estrogen, a hormone that helps grow your uterine lining to maintain early pregnancy. It is given through a patch that is applied to the skin on your abdomen. The estrogen is absorbed through the skin.
Most common side effects include skin redness, irritation or rash, nausea, and fluid retention.
You can learn more about Vivelle Patches on Drugs.com.
Estrace (estradiol)
Estrace is an oral estrogen tablet. Estrogen is a hormone that helps grow your uterine lining to maintain early pregnancy.
Most common side effects include breast tenderness, nausea, and fluid retention.
You can learn more about Estrace at Drugs.com.
Progesterone / Prometrium / Endometrin
The hormone Progesterone prepares the uttering lining for the implantation of the embryo and helps to maintain early pregnancy. It will be given by intramuscular injection or vaginal suppository.
Most common side effects include breast tenderness, injection site tenderness, dizziness, and vaginal discharge.
You can learn more about Progesterone at Drugs.com.
Tetracycline
Tetracycline is an antibiotic given orally before an embryo transfer to prevent infection from occurring. It may cause gastrointestinal upset and sensitivity to the sun.
You can learn more about Tetracycline at Drugs.com.
Medrol (methylprednisolone)
Medrol is a low-dose steroid oral tablet that works to suppress your autoimmune system so that it does not interfere with embryo implantation.
You can learn more about Medrol at Drugs.com.
If you have any concerns about your medications, you should discuss them with your IVF nurse. You should also report and side effects you experience to your IVF clinic.
