Follitropin Alfa (Gonal-F)
Overview
Follitropin alfa is a recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone produced in Chinese hamster ovary cells, consisting of a heterodimeric glycoprotein with 92-amino acid alpha and 111-amino acid beta subunits. The peptide binds FSH receptors on ovarian granulosa cells to stimulate follicular development, estradiol synthesis, and oocyte maturation. It is employed in ovulation induction and controlled ovarian stimulation for assisted reproductive technologies.
Key Research Findings
FDA approval was obtained in 1997 following randomized trials demonstrating equivalence to urinary FSH in inducing ovulation and comparable pregnancy rates in IVF cycles. Long-term registry data have confirmed safety and efficacy across diverse patient populations. The recombinant formulation offers greater purity and consistency compared to urinary-derived gonadotropins.
Subcutaneous injection
FDA Approved
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