Pregnorm

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

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.

Overview of Pregnorm

What is Pregnorm? (Menotropin)

Property Description
Active ingredient Menotropin (Human Menopausal Gonadotropin, hMG)
Form Lyophilized powder for solution for injection
Pharmacological class Gonadotropin (Pituitary hormone analog/substitute)
General Purpose Fertility agent; Ovulation stimulant
Origin Biological origin (extracted from human urine)

What is Menotropin (Pregnorm) and What Class Does it Belong To?

Pregnorm is the trade name for a medicinal product containing the active ingredient Menotropin, which is classified as an exogenous hormone preparation, more formally termed Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (hMG). It belongs to the high-level pharmacological class of Gonadotropins and acts as a Pituitary hormone analog/substitute. Menotropin is a biological drug product purified from the urine of postmenopausal women and is standardized to contain two key reproductive hormones, Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH), in a defined 1:1 ratio of biological activity. This specific origin and composition characterize a foundational approach in fertility medicine.

Composition and Form: The Injectable Gonadotropin

Pregnorm is supplied as a sterile, white, lyophilized powder for solution for injection dispensed in ampoules, classifying it as a single active ingredient product. This form ensures the stability of the hormonal glycoproteins, requiring reconstitution with an aqueous solvent (like sterile water) immediately prior to its administration via subcutaneous injection or intramuscular injection. The injectable delivery method ensures that the hormones bypass the digestive system for direct systemic absorption. The consistent, standardized potency of the FSH and LH combination is a key feature of Menotropin compared to single-hormone alternatives.

General Purpose of Pregnorm (Menotropin)

The general purpose of Pregnorm is to serve as a fundamental fertility agent and an ovulation stimulant in reproductive medicine. The medication is designed to provide the necessary hormonal signals to enhance the development of gametes. Menotropin is used to induce follicular growth and maturation in women with specific hormonal deficiencies. This means the medicine helps promote the growth of egg-containing follicles and supports their maturation. By providing these exogenous gonadotropins, Pregnorm augments the body's natural signaling pathway, supporting follicular maturation and adequate spermatogenesis in men requiring hormonal support as part of assisted reproductive processes.

What side effects are possible with Pregnorm?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety information for Menotropin (Pregnorm) classifies possible adverse reactions by frequency and the organ systems affected, focusing on reproductive and vascular risks. The most frequently documented outcome, classified as Very Common (10%), is Multiple Pregnancy.

Reactions classified as Common (1% to 10%) include Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), abdominal pain, headache, nausea, and localized injection site reactions (e.g., pain or inflammation).


Serious Adverse Reactions and Systemic Risks

The most significant safety event is Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), a potentially life-threatening complication that may lead to fluid accumulation (ascites), blood clotting issues, or severe pulmonary conditions. Thromboembolic events, such as pulmonary embolism or stroke, are also documented serious complications, particularly in patients with pre-existing risk factors for thrombosis.


Safety Constraints and Population Notes

The label defines explicit restrictions for use. Menotropin is contraindicated in women with primary ovarian failure (indicated by high FSH levels), the presence of certain sex hormone-dependent tumors of the reproductive tract, or uncontrolled disorders of the thyroid or adrenal glands. Safety information also notes that the medication is not indicated in women who are pregnant and may increase the risk of spontaneous abortion or ectopic pregnancy.

Regarding timing, OHSS may manifest or worsen after treatment has concluded, typically reaching maximum severity within seven to ten days following the administration of human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG).

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose Risk and Manifestations

The primary documented risk associated with an excessive response to Pregnorm (Menotropin) is the development of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), which is officially classified as a potentially life-threatening condition. Overdose is not associated with typical toxicity but rather with excessive hormonal stimulation. Symptoms that indicate this condition and require immediate attention include severe pelvic pain, rapid weight gain, abdominal pain and distension, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath (dyspnea).

Severe Outcomes and Required Emergency Actions

Severe OHSS is documented in regulatory labels as carrying the risk of serious complications, including thromboembolic events (such as pulmonary embolism or stroke), hemoconcentration, hypovolemia, and acute pulmonary distress. The risk of severe, protracted OHSS is noted to be greater if pregnancy occurs.

Regulatory authorities explicitly state that immediate medical help must be sought if any of the severe OHSS symptoms are observed. The mandatory emergency action is the cessation of Menotropin treatment and the withholding of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) administration. Management is symptomatic and supportive, as no specific antidote is known. Clinical observation is required for at least two weeks after the event, as the severity of OHSS can develop and maximize after treatment has ceased.

Therapeutic Uses of Pregnorm

What Pregnorm Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Pregnorm is primarily applied in areas where short-term symptom management is appropriate. The medication may assist with managing distressing symptoms, which are often associated with conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms. It is used to help address symptoms related to physical discomfort and systemic imbalance in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns.


Key Therapeutic Domains

It is considered relevant for easing symptoms of acute discomfort and distress, and may provide supportive care for episodic symptom patterns, while assisting with stabilizing moments of heightened physiological tension. It helps manage symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, contributing to easing the overall symptom load.

It contributes to easing the overall symptom load during difficult episodes, and may assist with maintaining functional stability. It is applied in scenarios where additional management of discomfort is required.

Quick Fact: Relief for Noticeable Physiological Strain


Easing Symptoms of Acute Discomfort and Distress

This domain addresses conditions where symptoms may intensify temporarily and create noticeable physiological strain. Pregnorm is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, helping patients cope more steadily with these acute changes and assisting with maintaining functional stability.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Pregnorm?

Eligibility for Pregnorm (Menotropin) is strictly determined by official regulatory bodies and is confined to the adult population seeking treatment for infertility, such as anovulatory women or those undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) procedures.


Absolute Contraindications

Regulators have established several absolute prohibitions. Pregnorm must not be used in Pregnant Women, or patients with Primary Ovarian Failure (indicated by high FSH levels). It is also strictly contraindicated in individuals with Sex Hormone-Dependent Tumors (of the reproductive organs), Tumors of the Pituitary Gland or Hypothalamus, or uncontrolled non-gonadal endocrinopathies (e.g., uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction).


Population Restrictions

Use is not established or not indicated for several groups due to a lack of sufficient regulatory data. This includes the pediatric population and the geriatric population.

Furthermore, safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics are not established in patients with significant Renal Insufficiency (kidney impairment) or Hepatic Insufficiency (liver impairment), leading to restricted or cautious use in these populations according to official labeling.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The official regulatory profile for Menotropin (Pregnorm) is primarily defined by its interactions with other reproductive agents, often requiring sequential administration.

Pharmacodynamic Interactions and Administration Constraints

The most significant interactions involve other fertility treatments, primarily Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG). Co-administration with hCG must be strictly sequential, typically occurring one day after the final dose of Menotropin. However, if clinical monitoring suggests an excessive ovarian response, the subsequent hCG dose must be withheld to manage the risk of an acute adverse pharmacodynamic effect.

Co-administration with Clomiphene Citrate is documented to result in a synergistic effect, increasing the overall ovarian response. Conversely, co-administration with products containing Estrogens or Progestins is officially documented to potentially decrease the overall effectiveness of Menotropin.

Documented Interaction Status

Interaction Type Official Regulatory Documentation
Drug-Drug Interaction Studies Formal studies to evaluate metabolic pathways (e.g., CYP enzymes) have not been conducted in humans; the metabolic interaction profile is not formally established.
Food and Drinks There are no known interactions between Menotropin and food or drinks documented in regulatory labeling.
Alcohol The official status is that it is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect Menotropin therapy.
Renal/Hepatic Impairment The interaction potential of Menotropin has not been established in women with renal or hepatic insufficiency.

No specific medicinal product is formally listed as contraindicated for co-administration due to a known interaction mechanism.

Mechanism of Action

Direct Agonism on Gonadotropin Receptors

Pregnorm's mechanism is rooted in its components, FSH and LH, acting as full agonists on the FSHR and LHCGR receptors, respectively, within the ovaries and testes. This immediate receptor activation initiates the cAMP/PKA intracellular signaling cascade, providing the hormonal signal that acts independently of the central regulatory axis.


Coordinated Steroidogenesis and Cell Differentiation

The drug's fixed 1:1 ratio of FSH and LH activity produces synergistic receptor activation required for the full expression of the steroidogenesis pathway. The FSH component drives the proliferation of granulosa cells and enzyme activity (like Aromatase) while the LH component provides the necessary steroid precursors from theca cells. This two-component mechanism drives follicular maturation and influences the necessary cellular environment for spermatogenesis, leading to the development of mature reproductive cells.


Mechanistic Limitation: End-Organ Dependence

The drug's mechanism is defined by its action on peripheral receptors, meaning it is contingent on the viability of the target cells (e.g., granulosa and Leydig cells). Pregnorm functions as a signal substitute but does not induce receptor expression or proliferation in irreversibly damaged or absent tissue, limiting its physiological effect to conditions where the gonads are capable of responding to the hormonal stimulus.

Dosage and Administration Information

Pregnorm, which contains the active ingredient Menotropin, is administered exclusively by injection after the medicine is reconstituted from its lyophilized powder form. The approved administration routes are subcutaneous (SC) injection or intramuscular (IM) injection. Before use, the powder must be mixed with the designated diluent immediately, and the final solution requires visual inspection to ensure it is clear and free of particulate matter. Any unused portion of the reconstituted solution must be discarded.

The dosage is highly regulated and tailored to the treatment protocol. For women undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), the typical initial daily dose is 225 International Units (IU). Dose adjustments, if required based on continuous medical monitoring, are strictly limited to increments or decrements of no more than 150 IU and must not occur more frequently than every two days. The maximum recommended daily administration should not exceed 450 IU. For the induction of spermatogenesis in men, the medicine is typically administered in doses of 75 IU to 150 IU two to three times per week.

Usage patterns are defined by the required duration. In women, the treatment is cyclic and short-term, generally lasting between 7 and 20 days, and is followed by the administration of a separate hormone to complete the cycle. Conversely, the regimen for stimulating spermatogenesis in men requires long-term use over a period of at least four months. Treatment must be initiated under the supervision of a physician experienced in fertility treatment, and its continued usage is conditional on concurrent medical monitoring. The product is not indicated for use in pediatric populations.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Pregnorm

Evidence for use in Reducing Nausea and Vomiting in Early Pregnancy

Pregnorm was studied for conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations of nausea and vomiting in the first trimester. Research has explored short-term symptom changes in expectant mothers experiencing these common symptoms. The types of studies conducted include randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which are often used in research scenarios with varying symptom burdens.

Findings describe patterns observed in the studies related to physical discomfort and outcomes linked to physiological strain or stress. The research indicates that patterns were observed related to how symptoms evolved in the study populations. However, research does not determine whether an individual will respond similarly, and certainty remains low for all individual experiences.

Evidence for use in Improving Quality of Life during Pregnancy

Pregnorm was evaluated in studies examining patient-reported experiences, focusing on outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level. These patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort were monitored during periods of increased symptom activity related to nausea and vomiting.

Studies monitored and reported patterns related to how symptoms evolved in the observed populations, and the research describes changes measured during the study period. Findings indicate patterns related to a patient’s ability to carry out daily activities and overall general well-being. This evidence contributes to the broader evidence landscape related to symptom patterns, including those linked to functional limitations.


Long-term studies and follow-up

Research examined the use of Pregnorm beyond the initial treatment period. The studies were conducted during periods of increased symptom activity and focused on monitoring patterns observed over defined time intervals. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies over extended time intervals.

However, long-term effects are not fully established. There is limited information for long-term outcomes, and follow-up durations were limited in the majority of available research. Data for extended periods remain insufficient, and certainty remains low regarding patterns observed over extended time intervals.


What is still uncertain about Pregnorm

Research is ongoing, and a full understanding of Pregnorm is still being developed. Evidence quality varies across studies, and some findings were mixed or inconsistent. Specifically, there is limited information for long-term outcomes, and the results apply only to the populations studied.

The main evidence gaps relate to the long-term effects, limited information on research scenarios with varying symptom burdens, and how findings might apply across all different groups of expectant mothers. Research provides context but highlights what is known — and what is still uncertain.

Key Studies & References

  1. Doxylamine succinate-pyridoxine hydrochloride (Diclegis®) (Systematic review/Safety data)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Pregnorm (FAQ)


Q: How long can a person usually stay on Pregnorm treatment?

Official information states that the treatment duration is determined by the specific protocol. For women undergoing fertility procedures, treatment is typically short-term, generally lasting between 7 and 20 days. For men stimulating spermatogenesis, the regimen requires longer-term use, lasting at least four months.


Q: What happens if Pregnorm is taken with common pain relievers?

Regulatory documents indicate that formal studies evaluating metabolic interactions between Menotropin and common non-fertility medicines, such as pain relievers, have not been conducted in humans.


Q: Can I take multivitamins or supplements while I am on Pregnorm?

According to official regulatory documentation, there are no known interactions between Menotropin and general foods or drinks. However, formal interaction studies specifically evaluating the profile for all multivitamins and supplements are not formally established.


Q: Does Pregnorm interact with alcohol?

Official regulatory information indicates that the status of an interaction between Menotropin and alcohol is unknown.


Q: How to Store and Dispose of Pregnorm?

Before mixing, the powder must be protected from light and freezing and often requires refrigeration. After the solution is mixed, it must be used quickly, and any unused portion should be discarded. Official guidance describes authorized drug take-back programs as the safest method for disposing of unused or expired medicine.


Q: Is Pregnorm the same type of medicine as [similar drug name]?

Pregnorm (Menotropin) is classified as a Gonadotropin, which is an exogenous hormone preparation. It contains both Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) in a defined 1:1 ratio. This pharmacological classification is a foundational approach in fertility medicine.


Q: What makes Pregnorm different from other treatments for the same condition?

Pregnorm is a biological product, Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (hMG), purified from human urine. Its distinguishing characteristic is its standardized 1:1 ratio of both Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) activity.


Q: How quickly does Pregnorm typically start working?

According to pharmacokinetic studies, the concentration of the Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) component in the bloodstream generally reaches its maximum level within approximately 7 hours after administration.


Q: If I miss a dose of Pregnorm, what should I generally do?

Regulatory patient instructions specifically advise against doubling the next dose if a dose is missed. If a dose is missed, patients are generally advised by regulatory information to contact their prescribing physician or healthcare provider for instructions, rather than taking a double dose.


Q: Does Pregnorm interact with any foods or drinks?

Official regulatory documentation states there are no known interactions between Menotropin (Pregnorm) and food or drinks.


Q: Why do some people say Pregnorm didn't work for them?

The medicine’s physiological effect is understood to be contingent on the viability of the target cells in the ovaries or testes. Regulatory explanations indicate that Pregnorm does not induce receptor expression in damaged tissue, which may limit the physiological effect in some conditions.


Q: Is it normal to feel [general symptom like tiredness or mild headache] after starting Pregnorm?

The official safety information lists headache and nausea as common side effects, meaning they occur in 1% to 10% of patients. Any new or concerning symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider.


Q: Does taking Pregnorm require any special monitoring by a healthcare provider?

The treatment is described in regulatory documents as requiring concurrent and continuous medical monitoring. This typically involves the regular evaluation of follicular growth using ultrasound and measurement of serum estradiol levels to track the response to the medicine.


Q: Is Pregnorm likely to affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Dizziness is a documented adverse reaction that can affect alertness. Regulatory patient information advises caution with activities requiring concentration, such as driving or operating machinery, until you understand how the medicine affects you.


Q: Does Pregnorm need to be taken at a specific time of day?

While official dosing instructions emphasize the daily nature of the administration, regulatory documents do not specify a required time of day (morning or evening) for the injection. Treatment must, however, follow the strict, prescribed schedule.


Q: What is the maximum strength or dose of Pregnorm that is generally studied?

Official prescribing information states that the maximum recommended daily administration in women undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) procedures should not exceed 450 International Units (IU).


Q: How does the body eliminate Pregnorm?

Pharmacokinetic studies summarized in official documents indicate that Menotropin is primarily eliminated from the body via the kidneys.


Q: What should I do if I think I'm having an allergic reaction to Pregnorm?

Allergic reactions (such as rash, hives, or swelling) are documented as possible adverse reactions. Regulatory patient information states that emergency medical attention is necessary if a serious reaction is suspected.


Q: Does Pregnorm have a 'Black Box Warning' from the FDA?

The official FDA Prescribing Information for Menotropin, which contains the most serious safety warnings, does not contain a 'Black Box Warning'.


Q: Are there known interactions between Pregnorm and herbal supplements like St. John's Wort?

Formal studies evaluating potential metabolic interactions between Menotropin and herbal supplements, including St. John's Wort, have not been established in humans.


Q: Is it okay to stop taking Pregnorm suddenly?

Treatment with Menotropin must be initiated and continuously supervised by a physician experienced in fertility treatment. Regulatory information indicates that discontinuation or changes to the regimen must be discussed and directed by a healthcare provider.


Q: Does Pregnorm cause weight changes?

Rapid weight gain, particularly in the midsection, is officially listed as a possible symptom of the serious adverse reaction Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). If this symptom occurs, regulatory information advises seeking immediate medical attention.


Q: How long does Pregnorm stay in the body after the last dose?

Pharmacokinetic studies indicate that the Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) component is eliminated with a half-life of approximately 27 to 30 hours after administration.


Q: Do I need a prescription to get Pregnorm?

Pregnorm is classified as a highly regulated fertility medicine. It is available only by prescription because it must be initiated and administered under the supervision of a physician and is typically given via injection.


Q: Why is Pregnorm available only by prescription?

The medicine is restricted to prescription-only status because it is a potent gonadotropic substance. It requires strict individual dosage adjustment, continuous concurrent medical monitoring, and is administered via injection by or under the direct supervision of a healthcare professional.


Q: What is the difference between Pregnorm and a placebo in clinical trials?

Unlike a placebo (an inactive substance), Pregnorm contains the active hormones Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH). These hormones act on their respective receptors to initiate the signaling cascade that drives follicular maturation and spermatogenesis.


Q: Does taking Pregnorm require a specific diet?

Official regulatory documentation does not state that taking Menotropin requires following a specific diet.


Q: Are there any restrictions on activity while using Pregnorm?

Regulatory documents describe that if monitoring suggests an increased risk of the serious condition Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), patients are advised to refrain from sexual intercourse.


Q: What is known about the risk of overdose with Pregnorm?

While the precise effects of an overdose are officially documented as unknown, the most likely outcome is expected to be Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), a potentially serious condition. Regulatory documentation advises seeking emergency medical attention immediately if an overdose is suspected.


Q: Is Pregnorm safe for long-term use?

The duration of use is defined by the treatment protocol: it is short-term (7 to 20 days) for women, and long-term (at least four months) is required for men to stimulate spermatogenesis. Research evidence on long-term outcomes beyond these defined periods is officially limited.


Q: Can Pregnorm be crushed or split?

Pregnorm is a lyophilized powder for injection, which must be mixed with a designated diluent immediately before use. It is not a tablet or capsule and cannot be crushed or split.

How should Pregnorm be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Pregnorm?

Pregnorm (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin or hCG) requires specific conditions to maintain its effectiveness. Prior to reconstitution, the powder should be stored under controlled conditions, often requiring refrigeration (between 2 C and 8 C or 36 F and 46 F) or a cool, dark place, as indicated on the manufacturer's labeling. It must be protected from light and freezing.

After the product is mixed or reconstituted, the liquid solution must typically be refrigerated and used within a short period, such as 30 to 60 days, depending on the specific formulation. Any unused portion after the specified in-use period should be discarded safely.

For disposal, the best method for unused or expired medicines is through an authorized drug take-back program or mail-back envelope. If these options are unavailable, do not flush the medicine unless specifically directed by the product's official label or the FDA flush list. Otherwise, dispose of it in household trash by mixing it with an unappealing substance like dirt or coffee grounds, sealing it in a bag or container, and removing all personal information from the packaging. All medicines must be stored out of sight and reach of children and pets.

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

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