Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between units, cc’s and ml’s?
In Pharmacology a cc (cubic centimeter) is equal to a ml (milliliter). They measure volume. For example, if a vial contains 10 ml of liquid, that is the same as 10 ccs. An IU (International Unit) is also used to measure the dose of a preparation. International Unit is a unit of measurement for the amount of a substance; the mass or volume that constitutes one international unit varies based on which substance is being measured.

Why are some of the medications stored in the cooler if they do not need refrigeration?
Some medications are stored in the cooler for ease of delivery (so that you don’t have more than one package delivered even if the medication doesn’t need to be refrigerated).

The Sharps Container was packaged in the cooler, does it need refrigeration?
No.

The syringes and needles were packed in the cooler, do they need to be stored in the refrigerator?
No.

Can the Follistim Pen be stored at room temperature?
Yes.

How do I properly dispose of medication?
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines for drug disposal can be found here:. http://www.fda.gov/forconsumers/consumerupdates/ucm101653.htm.

My medicine looks different than it did before. Why is that?
If your medication looks different than it did when you received it, it may have been stored inappropriately. Check the date to make sure the medication hasn’t expired. Check the label for proper storage information. Call the pharmacist to review the change and determine if a refill is needed.

What if I miss a dose of my medicine?
You should follow up with your physician if you miss a dose of your fertility treatment medications for his/her instructions on when to take the dose or if additional doses are needed.

Do suppositories need to be refrigerated?
Crinone and Endometrin do not need to be refrigerated, however some compounded formulations may need to be kept in the refrigerator.

What do I do with my used needles and syringes?
Used needles should always go into the RED BIOHAZARD SHARPS container.

What needle size do I use to inject Progesterone Oil?
Progesterone in Oil should be injected with the 22g or a 21g 1.5 inch needle.

Why did I receive several different needles and syringes?
Different needles lengths are used for either sub Q or IM injections: ½ inch needles are generally used for subcutaneous (sub Q) injections, while 1 inch and 1.5 inch needles are generally used for intramuscular (IM) injections.

Can I mix my medications in advance?
If they are mixed and not used, they are wasted. Wait until it is time to use them. If pregnyl is mixed and only partially needed, refrigerate it. It is only good for 28 days, so make sure to note the date that you originally mixed it.

Do I have to inject my medication at the same time every day?
Yes, within 30 minutes before or after the original time of the first dose.

How much diluent do I use for my hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Novarel and Pregnyl) injection?
½ to 1 cc(ml).

Which needle should be used for hCG? Subqutaneous or Intramuscular?
Intramuscular in the gluteal muscle (your buttock). If Ovidrel is used it is a prefilled syringe and subcutaneous in the abdomen.