Fertility drugs are a first-line treatment for women who are struggling with infertility due to problems with ovulation. These drugs can be used on their own or in conjunction with other fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). Most women who are struggling to conceive due to ovulation disorders are suitable candidates for fertility drugs.

Probably the best-known fertility drug is clomiphene citrate, which is available under the brand names of Clomid and Serophene. For more than a quarter of a century, Clomid has been prescribed to women with abnormal ovulation. The purpose of the drug is to trigger the brain to release the hormones responsible for ovulation. Once triggered, these hormones signal to the ovaries that they need to produce eggs. The drug has proven remarkably effective in stimulating ovulation, with ovulation occurring in approximately two-thirds of the cases. The risks of Clomid are relatively mild. The drug does increase the chances of multiples pregnancy.

A Clomid protocol is usually the first line of action to promote ovulation. While Clomid and Serophene are taken orally, if it is unsuccessful, the next potential solution would be injectable hormones. Hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) are effective in signaling egg production in the ovaries. Again, hormone therapy is usually used in addition to other fertility treatments. The chances of multiples pregnancy are higher with injectable hormones than with Clomid.

While Clomid and injectable hormones are the two most widely prescribed therapies, Antagon, Parlodel, and Dostinex are used in certain cases, as well. Antagon is used to regulate ovulation in women prone to premature ovulation, while Parlodel and Dostinex are used in women with pituitary tumors that can affect ovulation. For patients who have a history of miscarriage, an anti-miscarriage drug called Heparin may be prescribed.

If you are in the New Jersey area and suffer from infertility, talk to a New Jersey infertility doctor about treatment options available to you, including in vitro fertilization New Jersey. He or she can provide more information and help you make an informed decision about the procedure.