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Fertility Physicians of Northern California Researchers Test New Forms of Progesterone Medication for Luteal Support During IVF

Posted on: Monday, 5 January 2009, 04:00 CST

SAN JOSE, Calif., Jan. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) require progesterone medication to help support early pregnancy, but the intramuscular injections for some forms of this medication can be painful for patients. Formulations of progesterone medication which can be administered by subcutaneous injection or vaginal suppository may offer similar results with better patient tolerance.

With patient well-being a constant focus, Fertility Physicians is participating in an international research study to compare an experimental progesterone, Progesterone-IBSA, which is given by subcutaneous injection, to an FDA approved progesterone, Endometrin(R), which is administered vaginally. The study will assess the efficacy, tolerability and safety of Progesterone-IBSA, the study medication, in female patients undergoing IVF.

"We are so pleased to be one of only 8 clinics across the nation asked to participate. The outcome of this study could mean improved comfort and cost for patients undergoing fertility treatment." said Dr. Purcell.

Patients choosing to participate will benefit by receiving progesterone medication (Endometrin(R) or Progesterone-IBSA) for one IVF cycle, at no charge. This represents approximately a $1,036 value. Additionally, $1,500 will be given to each study participant for their time and commitment. Patients will be responsible for all other charges relating to their IVF cycle and treatment.

Enrollment for this research study is now open and patients interested in participating are invited to call the research department at Fertility Physicians for further information on the study.

Dr. Karen Purcell, MD, PhD, FACOG is directing this study at Fertility Physicians of Northern California, along with Angie Toyama, clinical research coordinator. This research study is sponsored by Institut Biochimique SA (IBSA), an established pharmaceutical company in Switzerland.

About Fertility Physicians of Northern California

Founded in 1984, Fertility Physicians of Northern California (FPNC) offers the full range of medical solutions patients need to start a family, from simple drug therapy to advanced procedures such as in vitro fertilization and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis.

From private offices in San Jose and Palo Alto (CA) they have helped thousands of people become parents. FPNC services include the highest levels of patient care, emotional support and educational programs to assist patients throughout their treatment.

FPNC physicians are board certified specialists in reproductive endocrinology, infertility and reproductive surgery, providing the most advanced training and education in the treatment of infertility, endometriosis, miscarriage and other reproductive disorders. The clinical, nursing and laboratory staff is also composed of highly trained experts.

For more information, please visit: http://www.fpnc.com/team/research

SOURCE Fertility Physicians of Northern California

Source: PR Newswire

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