How is Lupron Administered During IVF Treatments?

Dr. Randy Morris

How is Lupron Administered During IVF Treatments?

Dr. Randy Morris

Lupron is commonly used during IVF to prevent women from ovulating during IVF and other assisted reproduction treatments. It is also used as a treatment for endometriosis. Lupron is given via subcutaneous injection, which patients can perform on themselves at home. Below, we will take a look at how Lupron is administered for IVF.

How Lupron Works in IVF

Lupron is classified as a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist. It reduces the likelihood of ovulation by inhibiting the pituitary gland's control of the ovaries, so that the gonadotropins given during the treatment cycle can stimulate the production of many egg follicles without worrying about premature ovulation.Because Lupron helps regulate hormones involved in ovulation, the medication can also be used to treat the symptoms of endometriosis. Lupron reduces the size of endometriosis growth, and is associated with a reduction in pain.

Administering Lupron

Lupron is injected subcutaneously, which means that is it injected into the fatty tissue underneath the skin. It is best to inject Lupron on the abdomen two inches from the side of the navel, or else on the upper, outer portion of the thigh. You can self-administer Lupron at home, or have your partner give you the injection if you are uncomfortable doing it yourself.The steps for preparing the Lupron injection are as follows:

  • Wash your hands for 15 seconds
  • Set up a clean area to work on
  • Use an alcohol swab to clean the top of the medication vial
  • Taking a clean syringe, pull back the plunger to the volume of medication that will be administered, filling it with air
  • Remove the cap from the needle, then pierce the rubber top of the vial
  • Push the plunger down, injecting the air into the vial
  • Keeping the needle inside the bottle, turn the vial upside down
  • Pull back the plunger until the syringe fills to the correct volume, then remove the needle from the vial
  • Hold the syringe up with the needle pointing toward the ceiling, then flick the syringe to remove any air bubbles
  • Push the plunger until one or two drops of liquid come out, ensuring that there is no air in the vial

To administer the injection:

  • Select a spot on the abdomen at least two inches from the navel, or the outer upper thigh
  • Sterilize the injection area using an alcohol swab, and let it air dry
  • Pinch the skin around the injection site, with about 3-4 inches between your thumb and fingers
  • Hold the needle at a 30 - 45 degree angle about 1 inch above the site, then quickly insert the needle. Depress the plunger completely, then pull the needle straight out
  • Dispose of the used needle in a biohazard or sharps container, or in a hard plastic container such as a used laundry detergent bottle

Dr. Randy Morris would be happy to meet with you about whether Lupron with IVF is right for you. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call IVF1 at (630) 537-6540.