Head-to-head clinical analysis & difference comparison: details on mechanism of action, dosing, half-life, interactions, and maternal-fetal safety.
PERGONAL vs BRAVELLE
Clinician-reviewed, head-to-head comparison of mechanism, dosing, pharmacokinetics, and safety profiles.
Last clinically reviewed: July 2026 · OpiCalc Medical Review Team
Pergonal (menotropins) is a purified preparation of gonadotropins (follicle-stimulating hormone, FSH, and luteinizing hormone, LH) extracted from postmenopausal urine. It stimulates ovarian follicular growth and maturation in women and spermatogenesis in men by acting on specific gonadal receptors.
Bravelle (urofollitropin) is a purified preparation of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) that stimulates ovarian follicular growth and maturation by binding to FSH receptors on granulosa cells, increasing c AMP production and promoting follicular development.
Induction of ovulation in patients with polycystic ovary disease or anovulatory infertility not due to primary ovarian failure,Stimulation of multiple follicular development in ovulatory patients undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ART),Induction of spermatogenesis in men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (in combination with h CG)
Ovulation induction in anovulatory women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS),Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF)
Intramuscular administration: 75 IU daily for 7-12 days, then 5,000-10,000 IU h CG 24 hours after last dose.
For ovulation induction: 150 IU subcutaneously or intramuscularly once daily for 5 days, starting on day 3 or 5 of menstrual cycle. For controlled ovarian hyperstimulation: 150-225 IU subcutaneously or intramuscularly once daily for 5-7 days, then adjust based on response.
Terminal elimination half-life approximately 24-36 hours; clinical context: supports daily dosing in ovulation induction protocols.
Terminal elimination half-life approximately 5-6 hours in healthy adults. Extended in renal impairment (up to 24 hours with Cr Cl <30 m L/min).
Menotropins are metabolized via proteolytic degradation in the liver and kidneys. The metabolic pathways involve hydrolysis into amino acids and smaller peptides.
Primarily metabolized in the liver via renal excretion; metabolic pathways not fully characterized.
Primarily renal: 70-80% as unchanged drug and metabolites within 24 hours; biliary/fecal excretion accounts for <5%.
Primarily renal: 95% of administered dose excreted unchanged in urine within 24 hours. Biliary/fecal: 5% eliminated via feces.
Approximately 10-15% bound to serum albumin.
Approximately 10-20% bound to plasma proteins (albumin and α-1 acid glycoprotein).
Vd approximately 0.5-0.6 L/kg, indicating distribution limited to extracellular fluid.
Approximately 0.3-0.5 L/kg. Distributing primarily in extracellular fluid; does not extensively penetrate tissues.
Intramuscular: approximately 100% bioavailability; subcutaneous: approximately 80-90% relative to IM.
Subcutaneous: 90-95% bioavailable relative to intramuscular route. Oral: not clinically used due to enzymatic degradation.
No specific guidelines; use with caution in renal impairment as drug excretion may be reduced.
No specific guidelines exist for GFR-based dose modifications; use with caution in severe renal impairment (Cr Cl <30 m L/min) and monitor for adverse effects.
No specific Child-Pugh based modifications; use with caution in severe hepatic impairment.
No specific guidelines exist for Child-Pugh based modifications; use with caution in severe hepatic impairment and monitor for adverse effects.
Not indicated for pediatric use; no weight-based guidelines established.
Not indicated for use in pediatric patients; safety and efficacy not established.
Not typically used in elderly; consider age-related decline in ovarian response and increased risk of adverse events.
Not indicated for use in geriatric patients; safety and efficacy not established.
Pergonal should only be used by physicians who are experienced in fertility disorders and in settings where monitoring of estradiol levels and follicular development through ultrasound is possible. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) may occur, which can be severe and is characterized by sudden ovarian enlargement, ascites, pleural effusion, oliguria, and thromboembolic events. Multiple births are increased.
Bravelle should only be used by physicians who are experienced in infertility treatment and can manage potential serious adverse events, including ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and multiple gestations.
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS),Thromboembolic events,Ovarian torsion,Ovarian enlargement,Multiple gestation,Ectopic pregnancy,Spontaneous abortion,Ovarian neoplasms (long-term use),Pulmonary complications (atelectasis, acute respiratory distress syndrome)
Ovarian enlargement and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) – can lead to serious complications; discontinue treatment if OHSS is suspected.,Multiple gestations – increased risk of multiple births.,Ovarian torsion – report sudden abdominal pain.,Pulmonary and vascular complications – thromboembolic events; discontinue if suspected.,Ectopic pregnancy and spontaneous abortion – higher rates in ART patients.,Neoplasms – risk of ovarian neoplasms with repeated use.
High levels of FSH indicating primary ovarian failure,Uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction,Pituitary tumor,Ovarian cyst or enlargement of unknown origin,Abnormal vaginal bleeding of undetermined cause,Pregnancy,Sex hormone-dependent tumors (e.g., breast, uterus)
Hypersensitivity to urofollitropin or any component,High levels of FSH indicating primary ovarian failure,Uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal dysfunction,Known or suspected pregnancy,Ovarian cyst or enlargement of undetermined origin,Abnormal uterine bleeding of undetermined origin,Sex hormone-dependent tumors (e.g., breast, uterus, ovary)
No known food interactions. Maintain adequate hydration to help reduce the risk of OHSS; avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine as they may contribute to dehydration.
No known food interactions. Maintain normal diet and hydration. Avoid alcohol as it may exacerbate side effects like nausea.
Pergonal (menotropins) is a gonadotropin used for ovulation induction. In vitro studies show no evidence of teratogenicity; however, there is a risk of multiple gestation (20% twinning rate, higher order multiples less common). No specific fetal malformations are attributed to the drug. First trimester exposure is not associated with major congenital anomalies. Second and third trimester risks are minimal as the drug is not continued after pregnancy is achieved.
Pregnancy Category X. Urofollitropin is contraindicated in pregnant women due to risk of fetal harm. First trimester: Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and multiple gestations. Second and third trimesters: No direct fetal effects reported, but risks associated with multiple gestation (preterm birth, low birth weight). Maternal OHSS may lead to thromboembolism.
No data available on excretion into breast milk. Pergonal is not indicated during breastfeeding. The M/P ratio is unknown. Due to the hormonal nature and potential for adverse effects in infants, breastfeeding is not recommended during therapy.
Urofollitropin is not indicated for use during lactation. No data on excretion in human milk, M/P ratio not established. Use during breastfeeding is contraindicated due to potential for adverse effects on infant hormone levels.
No dosing adjustments are required in pregnancy because Pergonal is discontinued once pregnancy is confirmed. Treatment is typically stopped after ovulation and conception. Pharmacokinetic changes in pregnancy do not apply as the drug is not used during gestation.
No dose adjustment applicable as therapy is discontinued upon confirmed pregnancy. No pharmacokinetic data during pregnancy; drug is not used after conception due to contraindication.
Pergonal (menotropins) is a human menopausal gonadotropin used for ovulation induction. Monitor estradiol levels and follicular growth via ultrasound to minimize ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and multiple gestation. Administer IM only; do not use if solution is cloudy or contains particles. Concomitant use with Gn RH agonists may require dose adjustments. Discontinue if severe ovarian enlargement or pain occurs.
BRAVELLE (urofollitropin) is a purified FSH product used for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. Administer subcutaneously; rotate injection sites. Monitor estradiol levels and follicle growth via ultrasound. Risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS); consider using Gn RH antagonist protocols to reduce risk. Do not administer if patient has high baseline FSH levels (>15 IU/L) indicating poor ovarian reserve.
This medication is injected into a muscle; your healthcare provider will show you how to prepare and give the injection.,You will need frequent blood tests and ultrasound exams to monitor your response to the medication and reduce risks.,The most common serious side effects are ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and multiple pregnancy. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience severe pelvic pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, or rapid weight gain.,Store unused vials in the refrigerator; do not freeze. Protect from light. Discard any unused portion after opening.,Do not use if you are already pregnant or have ovarian cysts, abnormal vaginal bleeding, thyroid or adrenal disorders, or pituitary tumors.
Teach proper injection technique and site rotation (abdomen, thigh).,Report immediately if severe pelvic pain, nausea, vomiting, or rapid weight gain occurs (OHSS signs).,Avoid intercourse until instructed to prevent multiple pregnancy.,Inform of multiple pregnancy risk (especially twins).,Store vials in refrigerator (2-8°C) and protect from light.
No interactions on record
No interactions on record
Explore head-to-head clinical comparisons of other medications in the same therapeutic classes.
Common clinical questions about PERGONAL vs BRAVELLE, answered by our medical review team.
PERGONAL is a Gonadotropin that works by Pergonal (menotropins) is a purified preparation of gonadotropins (follicle-stimulating hormone, FSH, and luteinizing hormone, LH) extracted from postmenopausal urine. It stimulates ovarian follicular growth and maturation in women and spermatogenesis in men by acting on specific gonadal receptors.. BRAVELLE is a Gonadotropin that works by Bravelle (urofollitropin) is a purified preparation of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) that stimulates ovarian follicular growth and maturation by binding to FSH receptors on granulosa cells, increasing c AMP production and promoting follicular development.. They differ in pharmacokinetic profiles, FDA-approved indications, and side effect profiles.
Potency comparisons between PERGONAL and BRAVELLE depend on the specific clinical indication. These are both Gonadotropin agents and are not directly interchangeable by dose. A physician or clinical pharmacist should guide any therapeutic switching decisions.
The standard adult dose of PERGONAL is: Intramuscular administration: 75 IU daily for 7-12 days, then 5,000-10,000 IU h CG 24 hours after last dose.. The standard adult dose of BRAVELLE is: For ovulation induction: 150 IU subcutaneously or intramuscularly once daily for 5 days, starting on day 3 or 5 of menstrual cycle. For controlled ovarian hyperstimulation: 150-225 IU subcutaneously or intramuscularly once daily for 5-7 days, then adjust based on response.. Dosing should always be individualized based on indication, renal and hepatic function, age, and other patient factors.
No direct drug-drug interaction has been formally documented between PERGONAL and BRAVELLE in current clinical databases. However, individual patient risk factors including other medications, organ function, and comorbidities should always be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
The maternal-fetal safety profiles differ. PERGONAL is classified as Category C. Pergonal (menotropins) is a gonadotropin used for ovulation induction. In vitro studies show no evidence of teratogenicity; however, there is a risk of multiple gestation (20% twin. BRAVELLE is classified as Category C. Pregnancy Category X. Urofollitropin is contraindicated in pregnant women due to risk of fetal harm. First trimester: Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and multiple gestatio. Always consult a maternal-fetal medicine specialist before taking either drug during pregnancy or lactation.