What is the Origin of Traditional Fertility Medications?

These medications derive their origin from early endocrinology research identifying ways to pharmacologically mimic or stimulate the natural pulsatile release of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) to promote follicular development. They represent decades of clinical application.

What is the Mechanism of Traditional Fertility Medications?

Clomiphene acts as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) at the hypothalamus and pituitary, blocking negative feedback and thus increasing endogenous gonadotropin secretion. Conversely, injectable gonadotropins directly supply exogenous FSH and LH activity to stimulate ovarian follicles directly.

Traditional Fertility Medications ∞ Area

Traditional Fertility Medications

Meaning

Traditional Fertility Medications encompass established pharmacological agents, such as Clomiphene Citrate or Gonadotropins, historically used to induce ovulation or stimulate gamete production in individuals experiencing infertility due to ovulatory dysfunction or hypogonadism. These are standard-of-care treatments.