In some types of fertility treatment procedures, the injection of a drug called Lupron will enhance the chances of a pregnancy being induced. As with most artificial methods of fertility, couples should keep in mind that there are no guarantees. Lupron, or leuprolide acetate, is used for its ability to suppress the pituitary gland in a way that it prevents ovulation, especially in women who have shown a poor response to fertility treatments that have been used without this additional stimulation. Lupron sets the stage for the treatment with infertility drugs, as it is injected prior to the application of the fertility inducing drugs.
Where Lupron Works Best
Lupron is most effective when used in conjunction with other fertility treatments such as frozen embryo transfer and the application of egg donations. The reason for this is that Lupron stimulates the maturation of the eggs, leading to an enhanced likelihood of pregnancy. During in vitro fertilization, Lupron seems to also stimulate egg production. During the egg stimulation process there is the possibility of multiple births, although the success rate of becoming pregnant is significantly increased.
When Lupron Is Used
Normally Lupron is the initial drug given before the application of other fertility injections such as follistim. Since Lupron suppresses the naturally occurring follicle stimulating hormone production, the following injection of fertility treatment is much more able to be controlled, giving an increased chance of pregnancy. It will be given over a number of days prior to fertility treatments and will be injected into either the thigh or the abdominal region.
