Cetrotide
Storage Instructions
Cetrotide 0.25mg must be refrigerated (36-46°F).
Protect from light.
Store in original box.
Use immediately after reconstitution/mixing.
Description
Cetrotide (cetrorelix) is an injection given along with other fertility medications during in vitro fertilization (IVF). While it has very few side effects, it can be more difficult to use than other alternatives.
How to Use Cetrotide
Here are step-by-step instructions for taking Cetrotide™ (cetrorelix) injections:
- Cetrotide™ is injected subcutaneously—or into the fatty tissue under your skin. The primary sites for injection are your abdomen—2 inches on either side of the navel, and your upper, outer-thigh where the skin is loose. Wash your hands thoroughly and make sure that the surface you work on is clean.
2 Flip off the plastic cover of the vial and wipe the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab. - Put the injection needle with the yellow mark (20 gauge) on the pre-filled syringe.
- Push the needle through the rubber stopper of the vial and slowly inject the solvent into the vial. Leaving the syringe in the vial, gently swirl the vial until the solution is clear. Avoid making bubbles. Do not shake.
- Invert the vial and pull back the needle as far as needed to withdraw all of the liquid in the vial. You might not be able to withdraw every drop.
- Replace the yellow marked needle with the (27 gauge) ½ inch syringe.
- With the needle pointing toward the ceiling, flick the side of the syringe to disperse any air bubbles and the air pocket at the top of the syringe, then gently push the plunger until one or two drops of liquid are expressed to make sure you have eliminated any air.
- Gently push on plunger until air pocket is gone and expel a drop of liquid
How to Give Subcutaneous Injection
There are three places that a subcutaneous injection may be given: the abdomen, the thigh, or the back of your arm as shown here
- Select your injection site (the abdomen is preferred)
- Cleanse the area with alcohol and let dry. Do not blow on it.
- Take a pinch of the fatty tissue you have cleansed. The injection is given here.
- Hold the syringe like a pencil or a dart approximately 1 inch away from the skin.
- Insert the needle quickly (not hard), with one fluid motion, into the skin.
- Let go of the pinch of skin. Depress the plunger and inject all of the medication. Pull the needle straight out.
- Apply pressure to the injection site with a sterile gauze pad.
- Never reuse needles or syringes.
- Dispose of the syringe in a biohazard container such as a Sharps container – or in a sealable, unbreakable plastic container such as a laundry detergent bottle.
Please be aware that some of these instructions may vary based on your particular situation or preference.
Instructional Video
