Ganirelix (Injection)

Introduction:

Ganirelix (ga-ni-REL-ix)

Keeps a woman from ovulating too soon when undergoing infertility treatment.

Brand Name(s):

Antagon, Ganirelix Acetate

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to ganirelix or gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) or if you are pregnant.

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.
  • Talk with your doctor if you have questions about the schedule for your treatment or how your progress will be checked.
  • A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. It may also be given by a home health caregiver.
  • 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.
  • You will be shown the body areas where this shot can be given. The usual areas are the upper thigh or near the navel. Use a different body area each time you give yourself a shot. Keep track of where you give each shot to make sure you rotate body areas.
  • Use a new needle and syringe each time you inject your medicine.

If a dose is missed:

  • This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature, away from heat and direct light.
  • Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container away from children and pets.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using any other medicines to treat infertility.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Although this medicine is used as a part of a program to achieve pregnancy, receiving Antagon® if you are already pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Carefully follow any instructions your doctor gives you regarding birth control or pregnancy testing during your treatment.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are breastfeeding, or if you are allergic to latex.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

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

  • Rapid weight gain or bloating
  • Severe or ongoing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
  • Severe stomach or pelvic pain

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

  • Headache
  • Mild nausea or stomach pain
  • Redness or swelling at the site of injection
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding
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