Infertility in women: an update.
OBJECTIVE
To review pharmacologic therapy of infertility disorders in women.


METHODS
Current clinical literature.


METHODS
Not applicable.


METHODS
Not applicable.


RESULTS
The complex interplay of hormones and cells is the focus of most pharmacotherapeutic interventions in women with infertility problems. Treatment remains more of an art than a science at this time. Since the cause of infertility cannot be identified in many cases, practitioners use medications to overcome potential problems with anovulation, secondary ovarian failures, hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction, and hyperprolactinemia. This article reviews the use of clomiphene, human chorionic gonadotropin, menotropins such as human menopausal gonadotropin and urofollitropin, gonadotropin-releasing hormone, and dopamine agonists.


CONCLUSIONS
Although few pharmacists are closely involved in the treatment of women with infertility, they can be sources of information, monitor families for signs and symptoms of psychologic stress associated with treatments, and help patients with practical instructions.
College of Pharmacy, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston 29425, USA. carsonds@smtpgw2.musc.edu
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D000858:Anovulation / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D005300:Fertility Agents, Female / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D006966:Hyperprolactinemia / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D007027:Hypothalamic Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D007247:Infertility, Female / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D016649:Primary Ovarian Insufficiency / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy
D005300:Fertility Agents, Female