Follitropin (Recombinant FSH)
Follitropin is recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) produced in cell culture, used for controlled ovarian stimulation in IVF, ovulation induction, and stimulation of spermatogenesis in hypogonadotropic men. It provides pure FSH activity without the LH content of urinary hMG.
01 Overview
Follitropin alfa and beta are recombinant FSH preparations manufactured to high purity, allowing precise, reproducible dosing compared with urinary gonadotropins. They stimulate follicular growth in women and Sertoli-cell-driven spermatogenesis in men.
Because they contain FSH only, in settings requiring LH activity they are combined with hCG or LH. They are core drugs of assisted reproduction and are sometimes used in male fertility restoration, including after anabolic-steroid-induced suppression.
02 Mechanism
Recombinant FSH binds ovarian granulosa or testicular Sertoli cell FSH receptors, driving follicular maturation or spermatogenesis.
03 Dosing
| Tier | Dose | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Male spermatogenesis | 150 IU | SubQ | ~150 IU three times weekly with hCG |
| Ovarian stimulation (IVF) | 150–300 IU/day | SubQ | Typically 150-300 IU daily, individualised by response |
04 Effects
| Effect | Magnitude | Evidence | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-follicular developmentRecruits and matures multiple follicles for oocyte retrieval in IVF. | Clinical | ||
| Support of spermatogenesisWith hCG, improves sperm production in hypogonadotropic men. | Clinical |
05 Side effects
| Effect | Severity | Frequency | Evidence | Countermeasures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)Exaggerated ovarian response causing ovarian enlargement, ascites, and thrombosis risk. | Severe | Uncommon | Clinical | |
| Injection-site reactionsLocal redness, bruising, or discomfort with daily SC injections. | Mild | Common | Clinical |