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Metrodin HP

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Metrodin HP

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

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Overview of Metrodin HP

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active Ingredient Urofollitropin (Highly purified Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)
Form Sterile, lyophilized powder for injection
Pharmacological Class Gonadotropin, Ovulation Stimulator
General Purpose To stimulate ovarian follicular growth
Origin Urinary-derived (from postmenopausal women)

What is Metrodin HP and What Kind of Hormone is Urofollitropin?

Metrodin HP is a highly purified injectable drug whose active ingredient is Urofollitropin, a form of the Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH). It is formally classified as a gonadotropin and functions as an Ovulation Stimulator in reproductive medicine.

This prescription-only medication is designed to replicate the effect of the natural hormone that regulates the reproductive cycle. The "HP" in the name, signifying High Purity, is a critical differentiating factor because the preparation is meticulously processed to contain an almost singular concentration of FSH, with minimal or negligible traces of Luteinizing Hormone (LH). This high degree of purification allows for the specific administration of the FSH signal. Urofollitropin is the officially recognized nomenclature (INN) for this active compound.

Composition, Origin, and Pharmaceutical Form

The Urofollitropin in Metrodin HP is a urinary-derived hormone, extracted and highly refined from the urine collected from postmenopausal women. This natural, human source means the hormone's structure is biologically identical to the FSH produced by the body, ensuring maximum recognition by FSH receptors.

The drug is supplied as a sterile, lyophilized powder in a vial or ampule, which is reconstituted into an aqueous solution for injection prior to use. It is designated a single-component product because its pharmacological action is focused exclusively on the activity of the Follicle-Stimulating Hormone component. This purification process results in a product with very high specific activity of FSH.

What is the General Purpose of Metrodin HP?

The fundamental purpose of Metrodin HP is to mimic the body's natural FSH signal to stimulate ovarian follicular growth in women. By providing a concentrated and predictable external source of FSH, the medicine directly encourages the ovaries to begin the process of developing mature, egg-containing sacs called follicles. The overall therapeutic goal is to establish the prerequisite conditions necessary to successfully achieve ovulation in the context of female infertility resulting from an absence or deficiency of natural gonadotropins.

Regulatory References

  1. MedlinePlus Drug Information on Urofollitropin
  2. Review on Gonadotropins (NIH/PMC)
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What side effects are possible with Metrodin HP?

Adverse Reactions

The possible side effects of Metrodin HP are officially classified by their frequency of occurrence and the body system they affect.

Very Common (ge 1/10): Multi-fetal pregnancy/birth, abdominal cramps, and headache.

Common (ge 1/100 to < 1/10): Nausea, injection site pain and local reactions (such as swelling, redness, or bruising), hot flashes, ovarian cysts, and Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) of overall incidence.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Considerations

The most clinically significant safety concern documented in regulatory sources is Severe Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). While uncommon, severe OHSS is a potentially life-threatening condition that may lead to symptoms such as significant fluid shifts, severe abdominal pain, sudden weight gain, and enlargement of the ovaries, sometimes involving liver enzyme elevations and jaundice.

Thromboembolic Events (Blood Clots) are another serious adverse reaction, documented to have occurred with gonadotropin treatment and have been fatal. These events can involve vascular complications in the lungs, brain, or limbs.

Safety Monitoring and Limitations

Treatment requires the careful and regular monitoring of ovarian response using serum estradiol measurements and vaginal ultrasound to minimize the risk of OHSS. Should signs of overstimulation occur, a restriction on further administration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is required. Due to the seriousness of these potential risks, the medicine is restricted to use by physicians who are thoroughly familiar with infertility problems and the required monitoring management.

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Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official regulatory documentation addresses the possibility of an overdose with Metrodin HP (highly purified Human Menopausal Gonadotropin) by focusing on the predictable clinical outcome resulting from the drug's activity.

Overdose Component Regulatory Statement
Documented Outcome The effect of an acute overdose is unknown, but the expected outcome is Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS).
Immediate Action You must contact your doctor immediately if an overdose with this medicine is suspected.
Management Focus Management is directed at the symptomatic treatment of OHSS, if it occurs, and includes appropriate supportive therapies.

The drug's official profile states that the most anticipated consequence of over-exposure is the development of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), which is a defined medical condition resulting from excessive ovarian response. Although specific acute systemic toxicity is listed as unknown in official sources, the documented risk of OHSS requires prompt attention. Therefore, seeking immediate medical advice from a doctor or emergency services is the required course of action upon suspicion of an overdose.

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Therapeutic Uses of Metrodin HP

Metrodin HP (urofollitropin) is a medicine containing urofollitropin, a type of gonadotropin relevant for easing symptoms linked to organ-specific functional stress. This class of medication is commonly used to help with female infertility and is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, relevant when supportive symptom management is appropriate.

This medication is primarily relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension associated with conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, which are conditions involving episodic or fluctuating manifestations. Its application is relevant in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, and use within Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) procedures involving short-term symptomatic assistance.

In these clinical scenarios, Metrodin HP is applied in addressing symptoms related to systemic imbalance, which may assist with maintaining functional stability during symptomatic periods. The supportive role of the medication assists with easing discomfort during periods of heightened symptoms, offering symptomatic relief that helps patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations.


“This supportive care helps maintain a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable, playing a role in managing conditions where functional stability becomes affected.”


Quick Fact: Relief for Symptoms that interfere with daily functioning

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Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Metrodin HP?

Eligibility for Metrodin HP (Urofollitropin) is strictly defined by regulatory authorities based on specific medical conditions and patient populations. Use is formally allowed for adult women with anovulatory infertility (including PCOS) and women undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) procedures.


Absolute Contraindications

The medicine must not be used by women who are pregnant (Category X) or patients with signs of primary ovarian failure (high FSH levels). Other absolute contraindications include sex hormone-dependent tumors (ovarian, uterine, breast) and tumors of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus. The medicine is also prohibited for those with uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction, abnormal uterine bleeding of undetermined origin, or known hypersensitivity to the drug.


Restricted Use and Limitations

Metrodin HP use requires caution for patients with hepatic or renal impairment, as safety and efficacy have not been established in these groups. Use is not recommended in pediatric or geriatric populations. Patients with a high risk of thromboembolic events or severe obesity must also be monitored with caution. Women with tubal obstruction should only receive the drug if enrolled in an ART program.

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What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official regulatory documents for Metrodin HP (Urofollitropin) establish an interaction profile defined by sequence-dependent pharmacodynamic effects rather than classic drug metabolism. As a protein hormone, Urofollitropin is not metabolized via the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, and regulatory labels contain no documented interactions concerning drug transporters, such as P-gp. This confirms the absence of pharmacokinetic interactions with other medicinal products.

The clinically significant interactions documented by government health authorities involve sequential administration. Prior use of Clomiphene Citrate may result in an exaggerated follicular response to the gonadotropin treatment. A critical timing-based administration restriction is mandated for the sequential use of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG). The hCG dose must be withheld if ovarian monitoring suggests an increased risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). This is classified as a clinically significant interaction risk requiring mandatory intervention. Furthermore, official prescribing information notes a population-specific data gap: the safety and efficacy of Urofollitropin have not been established in patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment. No specific interactions with food, alcohol, or herbal products are detailed in official regulatory documents.

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Mechanism of Action

How Metrodin HP Works: A Pharmacodynamic Mechanism

Metrodin HP acts as an exogenous source of highly purified urofollitropin, structurally identical to Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), concentrating its pharmacologic action on the gonads. The mechanism commences with the drug binding directly to the FSH receptor (FSHR) on granulosa cells in the ovary and Sertoli cells in the testis. This binding initiates the crucial cAMP-PKA intracellular signaling cascade, delivering a selective binding event that results in cellular growth and differentiation.

This activation promotes the function of key enzymes, specifically aromatase, leading to increased local biosynthesis of sex hormones, primarily estrogens. The resulting localized steroidogenesis contributes to the formation of a hormonal environment characterized by elevated estrogen levels. Physiologically, the mechanism influences follicular viability and cell survival by promoting anti-apoptotic signaling and growth factor expression, maintaining the population of growing follicles and supporting the proliferative phase for germ cells.

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Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Metrodin HP (Urofollitropin)

Administration of Metrodin HP is procedural and follows specific guidelines. The drug is supplied as a lyophilized powder that requires reconstitution with the provided diluent immediately prior to use for injection. It is administered once daily by Subcutaneous (SC) or Intramuscular (IM) injection. Up to six vials may be combined into one milliliter of diluent for a single dose, and injection sites must be alternated daily.


The official daily dosing depends on the therapeutic context and adheres to a maximum limit.

Treatment Context Official Starting Daily Dose Dose Adjustment Rule
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) 225 IU for the first five days. Adjustments (75–150 IU) should not be made more frequently than once every two days.
Ovulation Induction (OI) 150 IU for the first five days. Adjustments (75–150 IU) should not be made more frequently than once every two days.

The maximum allowable daily dose for urofollitropin is 450 IU, and the total treatment duration in any cycle generally should not exceed 12 days. The course of Metrodin HP administration is concluded by a single, required injection of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG). If a dose is missed, the next dose must not be doubled. Use of this medication is not recommended for pediatric or geriatric populations.

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Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Metrodin HP

This overview explains the types of research studies that have been conducted on Metrodin HP (urofollitropin) and what findings have been reported, focusing only on the medicine's role in addressing female infertility.


Evidence for Anovulatory Infertility and Ovulation Induction

The evidence base involves Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) investigating its use in women who do not regularly ovulate. The populations studied were adult women with functional anovulatory infertility or those with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) who had not responded to clomiphene citrate. Research examined outcomes related to the rate of ovulation, pregnancy rate, and the live birth rate. Evidence relies on comparisons with older treatments, and long-term outcome data beyond the immediate birth is not fully established.


Evidence for Controlled Ovarian Stimulation (COS) in Assisted Reproduction

For its use in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), the evidence includes numerous Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses of RCTs. This research explored the process of developing multiple eggs as part of COS for procedures like IVF. The studies monitored outcomes related to the number of oocytes retrieved, fertilization rate, and the ultimate live birth rate. A key factor noted in the literature is that variability in ovarian response was observed in some studies between individuals.


Long-Term Outcomes and Follow-Up Data in Research

Clinical research has focused primarily on tracking success metrics through the conclusion of the treatment cycle. The typical follow-up periods used in key trials were tracked through the point required to monitor outcomes related to live birth. Information regarding extended durability of the effect or very long-term health outcomes for women years after use is limited.


Studies in Specific Patient Groups and Populations

Metrodin HP was studied for use in adult women generally, with specific research focusing on those with PCOS who failed prior therapy. The results apply only to the populations studied. Data for certain groups remain insufficient, such as research focusing specifically on older adults within the fertility treatment age range, or those with certain pre-existing comorbid medical conditions.


Evidence Gaps and Areas of Scientific Uncertainty

While research contributes to the broader evidence landscape, it also highlights areas where certainty remains low. Researchers explored differences between this urinary-derived FSH product and newer recombinant FSH products, and some subgroup findings are uncertain. Researchers indicate that comparative evidence is lacking for some of the newer clinical protocols now used in ART.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Metrodin HP (FAQ)


Q: Why do official documents mention the possibility of multiple pregnancies with Metrodin HP?

A: Official regulatory documents list multiple pregnancy/birth as a Very Common expected occurrence with the treatment. This outcome is related to the drug's fundamental purpose, which is to stimulate the ovaries to develop multiple follicles (sacs containing eggs), thereby increasing the chance of more than one egg being fertilized.


Q: Can Metrodin HP be used in combination with other fertility drugs?

A: Official regulatory documents describe the use of Metrodin HP in a sequential regimen with other fertility drugs, as mandated by the treatment protocol. Specifically, the course is completed by the administration of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG). Regulatory information also notes that prior use of Clomiphene Citrate may affect the ovarian response during treatment.


Q: Why is Metrodin HP sometimes preferred over other types of FSH treatments?

A: The name Metrodin HP signifies the High Purity of the active ingredient, urofollitropin (FSH). Official regulatory descriptions confirm that this purification process results in a product with a high concentration of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and negligible traces of Luteinizing Hormone (LH). This high purity is a key differentiating factor in the official characterization of the drug's composition.


Q: Does Metrodin HP affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

A: Official regulatory documents generally do not list direct effects on the central nervous system that would interfere with driving or operating machinery. However, headache is listed as a Very Common side effect, and patients experiencing serious symptoms like severe pain from Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) may find that their ability to perform normal activities is affected.


Q: What are the major difference between Metrodin HP and Menopur?

A: Metrodin HP (urofollitropin) is officially classified as a single-component product because its action is focused exclusively on Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) activity. In contrast, products known as human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) are generally defined as containing the activity of both FSH and Luteinizing Hormone (LH).


Q: What is the difference between Metrodin HP and recombinant FSH products?

A: Metrodin HP is a urinary-derived product, meaning the hormone (urofollitropin) is highly purified and extracted from the urine of postmenopausal women. In contrast, recombinant FSH products are manufactured synthetically in a laboratory using biotechnology.


Q: Is Metrodin HP the same as other fertility treatments?

A: No. Metrodin HP is formally classified as a gonadotropin and an Ovulation Stimulator. This classification is used in regulatory documents to distinguish it from other types of treatments used for infertility, such as oral medications or other classes of injectable hormones, by its specific hormone type and intended function.


Q: How quickly does Metrodin HP start working after the first use?

A: Official pharmacokinetic studies indicate that after injection, the active hormone, FSH, reaches its peak concentration in the bloodstream within a matter of hours. When administered as prescribed, hormone levels typically reach steady levels within approximately four days, which is necessary to stimulate follicular growth.


Q: Is Metrodin HP safe to use if I have a history of blood clots?

A: Official safety warnings state that Thromboembolic Events (blood clots) have been documented to occur with gonadotropin treatment, sometimes fatally. Regulatory documents specifically note that patients with a known history of these events, or other risk factors for blood clots, are populations for which careful monitoring is indicated during treatment.


Q: Can Metrodin HP affect my next menstrual cycle if I stop using it?

A: Pharmacokinetic data from official sources shows that urofollitropin has an extended elimination half-life (the time it takes for the drug to be reduced in the body). Hormone levels typically return to baseline values after approximately one month in treatment cycles where pregnancy does not occur, indicating that the immediate hormonal effects of the treatment are transitory.


Q: Are there any dietary restrictions mentioned in the official information for Metrodin HP?

A: The official regulatory documents regarding Metrodin HP do not detail any specific interactions concerning food, alcohol, or common herbal products. The clinically significant interactions documented by government health authorities involve sequential administration with other fertility medications.


Q: Can men use Metrodin HP for any conditions?

A: Metrodin HP (urofollitropin) is approved for use in women with anovulatory infertility and those undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) procedures. Official product labeling in major regulatory documents does not include an indication for the use of this specific product in men.


Q: What if I experience mild headaches while using Metrodin HP?

A: Official regulatory documents list headache as a Very Common side effect, meaning it is an anticipated occurrence for many users. This is classified as a Very Common side effect in official documents, and is noted as a common non-serious adverse reaction.


Q: Do official sources discuss Metrodin HP use in people with kidney issues?

A: Yes, official documents address this. They note that the safety and efficacy of urofollitropin have not been established in patients with severe hepatic (liver) or renal (kidney) impairment. Due to this lack of established data, use in these patient groups is a restricted condition that requires caution.


Q: Can Metrodin HP cause skin reactions or rashes?

A: Commonly reported side effects include localized reactions at the injection site, such as swelling, redness, or bruising. Safety information also lists general allergic reactions, which can include generalized skin rash, hives, or itching, as a potential but less common serious risk.


Q: Are there different strengths of Metrodin HP available?

A: Urofollitropin is officially available as a sterile, lyophilized powder for injection. While the typical vial concentration is often 75 IU, regulatory documents confirm its use in regimens that utilize single or multiple vials to achieve the various daily dosage limits necessary for different treatment protocols.


Q: Can using Metrodin HP affect laboratory test results?

A: Yes, the treatment is intended to change hormone levels. Because the drug adds Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and promotes increased local biosynthesis of sex hormones like estrogens, it will affect laboratory tests that measure these specific hormone levels used for clinical monitoring (e.g., serum estradiol).

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How should Metrodin HP be stored and disposed of?

The storage and disposal of Metrodin HP (urofollitropin) must adhere strictly to the conditions defined in the official regulatory labeling.

Item Official Regulatory Requirement
Storage Temperature Store the powder either refrigerated (2 C to 8 C) or at room temperature (up to 25 C). Do not freeze.
Protection Keep the product in the original outer carton to protect it from light.
Stability / Handling The solution, once reconstituted, must be used immediately. Discard any unused portion.
Disposal Place used needles/syringes in an approved sharps disposal container. The medicine must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

The regulatory profile mandates precise temperature and light protection for the powder, and dictates immediate use after mixing due to stability constraints. Unused reconstituted product and used sharps must be discarded following specific governmental and safety guidelines.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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