Omnitrope® is an injectable medication containing human growth hormone (HGH), a naturally occurring hormone that begins to decline after the age of 30. Although Omnitrope® has not been approved by the FDA for fertility treatment, studies have shown that it may improve egg quality in women with low levels of natural HGH. It is usually prescribed to women classified as “poor responders”, such as those over the age of 40, those with diminished ovarian reserve (low egg count), or those who responded poorly to prior treatment with stimulation medications. Omnitrope® is typically taken as a daily subcutaneous (under the skin) injection for approximately 8-12 days as a supplement to your stimulation medications (Follistim AQ®, Gonal-f®, or Menopur®).
Omnitrope® comes in a 5.8mg multiple dose vial of powdered medication that must be mixed with bacteriostatic water before injecting.
- Omnitrope 5.8mg Vial
Common side effects of Omnitrope® include:
- Injection site reactions (pain, numbness, redness, and swelling)
- Headaches
- Swelling associated with fluid retention (edema)
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tingling and numbness
- High blood sugar (hyperglycemia/diabetes) and sugar in your urine (glucosuria)
- Unusual skin sensations
- Low levels of thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism)
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following rare but serious side effects, including:
- Severe allergic reaction: Rash, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- High blood pressure in the brain: Changes in vision, headache, nausea, vomiting
- Swelling of the pancreas: Nausea, vomiting, severe abdominal pain that spreads to your back
This is not a complete list of side effects that may occur. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Omnitrope® should be stored refrigerated (36℉ to 46℉). Do not freeze. Store in the original packaging to protect from light. Once mixed, the solution should be used within 3 weeks.