Key takeaways
Ovidrel (choriogonadotropin alfa) and HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) are both used for fertility treatments, but they have some differences. Ovidrel is a lab-made version of hCG and is only available as a brand-name medication, while HCG is derived from the urine of pregnant women and is available in brand forms like Pregnyl and Novarel. Ovidrel is administered as a single subcutaneous injection, whereas HCG is typically injected into the muscles and may require multiple doses per week. Ovidrel comes in a ready-to-use pre-filled syringe, making it more convenient, while HCG needs to be mixed before injection. Both medications can cause ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and increase the risk of multiple pregnancies, but HCG has additional uses in males for conditions like low testosterone and undescended testes. Common side effects for Ovidrel include injection site pain and bruising, while HCG can cause headaches, irritability, and restlessness.
