What is this Cetrotide® (Cetrorelix) used for?

• It is used to help people get pregnant. It may be given to you for other reasons.

Important notes before taking Cetrotide® (Cetrorelix):

• If you are allergic to this drug or any part of this drug
• If you are allergic to any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.
• If you have kidney disease.
• If you are pregnant or may be pregnant. Do not take this drug if you are pregnant.
• If you are breastfeeding. Do not breastfeed while you take this drug.
• If you are older than 65 years of age. This drug is not approved for use in people older than 65 years of age.
• This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with this drug.
• Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to ensure that it is safe to take this drug with all of your drugs and health problems.
• Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

Important notes while taking Cetrotide® (Cetrorelix):

• Tell all of your healthcare providers that you take this drug. This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
• Have blood work checked as you have been told by the doctor.
• You will need to have ultrasounds done while using this drug.
• Limit working out while undergoing ovarian stimulation.
• A pregnancy test will be done to show that you are NOT pregnant before starting this drug.

Side effects of Cetrotide® (Cetrorelix):

Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
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• Very bad dizziness or passing out.
• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a severe side effect that may happen in some people who use this drug. Call your doctor right away if you have severe stomach pain or bloating; a very upset stomach, throwing up, or diarrhea; a big weight gain; shortness of breath; or a change in how much urine is passed.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor.

How is this drug best taken?

• Use this drug as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.
• It is given as a shot into the fatty part of the skin in the belly area.
• If you will be giving yourself the shot, your doctor or nurse will teach you how to give the shot.
• Wash your hands before and after use.
• This drug needs to be mixed before use. Follow how to mix as you were told by the doctor.
• Use right away after mixing.
• Do not give into th e skin within 1 inch of the belly button.
• Move the site where you give the shot with each shot.
• Do not use it if the solution changes color, cloudy, or has particles.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

 Call your doctor to find out what to do.

 How do I store and/or throw out this drug?

• Store in a refrigerator. Do not freeze.
• Store in the original container to protect from light.
• Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
• Throw away unused or expired drugs.
• Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. Throw away needles in a safety box. Do not reuse needles or other items.