Gonalf

Gonal-F is the brand name for follitropin alfa, a recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). It is used in fertility treatment to stimulate growth of ovarian follicles and, in some regimens, to induce ovulation. Follitropin alfa is produced using recombinant DNA technology.

Clinical use includes stimulation of follicular development in women undergoing assisted reproductive technology such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). It is administered by subcutaneous injection and often used together with a GnRH agonist or antagonist to control the timing of ovulation. Dosing is individualized and guided by ultrasound and hormone monitoring.

In men, follitropin alfa can be used as part of therapy for certain forms of infertility due to hypogonadotropic hypogonadism to stimulate spermatogenesis.

Mechanism and safety: FSH binds to receptors in the ovarian follicles or testes to promote follicular growth and estrogen production in women or spermatogenesis in men. Therapy carries risks including ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and, in pregnancy, risks to the fetus. Multiple pregnancies are also more likely.

Forms and availability: Gonal-F is available in various formulations, including prefilled syringes and multi-dose vials, and as ready-to-use flex pens in some markets. It is marketed by Merck Serono (Merck KGaA) and may have biosimilar versions.