Fertility drugs: what they do and how to use them safely

Trying to get pregnant and hearing about fertility drugs everywhere? These medicines can help kick-start ovulation, improve egg quality, or support an IVF cycle. They aren’t one-size-fits-all, so knowing what each drug does and what to watch for will save time, stress, and health risks.

Common types and how they work

Clomiphene (Clomid) and letrozole are oral pills that tell your brain to make more follicle-stimulating hormones. Doctors often start here for women with irregular ovulation. Gonadotropins (FSH, sometimes combined with LH or hMG) are injectable hormones used when pills don’t work or for IVF—these directly stimulate the ovaries to grow multiple follicles.

GnRH agonists and antagonists control the timing of ovulation during an IVF cycle. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) triggers final egg maturation and ovulation when follicles are ready. After ovulation or egg retrieval, many clinics use progesterone to support the uterine lining and improve chances of implantation.

Safety, side effects, and what to expect

Side effects are usually predictable: mood swings, bloating, breast tenderness, and headaches with pills; injection site soreness or flushing with shots. The main risks are ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)—which causes swollen, painful ovaries—and multiple pregnancy. OHSS needs medical attention if you get severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or shortness of breath.

Monitoring matters. Expect blood tests and ultrasounds during treatment so your doctor can adjust doses and reduce risks. If you see fast weight gain, severe pain, or shortness of breath, contact your clinic right away.

Who should use them? Fertility drugs help people with ovulation problems, unexplained infertility, or those doing assisted reproductive techniques like IUI or IVF. A fertility specialist will pick a plan based on age, hormone tests, ultrasound results, and previous responses to treatment. Never self-prescribe—these drugs need medical oversight.

Practical tips for buying and storing medication: always get fertility meds from licensed pharmacies and never from unverified online sellers. Keep injectable drugs refrigerated if the label says so, and follow storage instructions exactly. Ask your clinic about brand options—some medications have more predictable dosing or different injection devices that might be easier to use.

Questions to ask your doctor: What are the expected success rates with this drug for my situation? How will you monitor me? What signs mean I should call you? How many embryos or fetuses are likely if we stimulate multiple follicles? Clear answers help you weigh benefits and risks.

Fertility treatment can feel overwhelming, but the right information makes it manageable. Use this guide to talk with your care team so you understand why a drug is chosen, what to expect, and how to stay safe during treatment.