The use of recombinant FSH for ovulation induction

Recombinant human FSH (recFSH) was tested in a phase II study in 50 couples superovulated for IVF. Rec FSH alone was used in 10 women (Group 1). Intranasal buserelin spray (150 micrograms x 4 daily) was used in a flare-up protocol (10 women; Group 2) or in a desensitization protocol (10 women; Group 3) in combination with rec FSH. Desensitization using Triptorelin depot (3.75 mgIM) followed by rec FSH was given to 10 women (Group 4), while the same agonist was used subcutaneously (200 micrograms/daily) in Group 5 (10 women). In the five groups rec FSH induced multiple follicular growth. Significantly more ampoules rec FSH were required when a GnRH agonist was used. I all groups 9 to 11 mature oocytes were retrieved per cycle. In 6 couples there was an absence of fertilization due to severe sperm anomalies (5 couples); one couple suffered from idiopathic infertility. Fertilization and cleavage was normal in 44 couples. Forty-three transfers of 2.3 to 2.8 embryos yielded 10 pregnancies. Nine healthy babies were born. Superovulation for IVF was successful and safe by using rec FSH alone or in combination with various GnRHa dosages and protocols.