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Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing to grow your family, or preserve your fertility, can be an exciting time! But it can come with a lot of questions—especially when it involves fertility treatment.

Below, you’ll find answers to questions that might come up as you choose the best treatment for you.

About Fertility LifeLines™

What is Fertility LifeLines™?

 

Fertility LifeLines™ offers online access to financial savings for your EMD Serono Fertility medication. Fertility LifeLines™ offers eligible patients need-based savings through the following programs:

1. Compassionate Care, which is for eligible,* self-paying patients

2. Compassionate Corps, which is for eligible† veterans and their spouses/partners

 

Fertility LifeLines™ also provides access to a live emotional support line as well as information about using insurance versus our need-based savings programs.

 

*Subject to eligibility; restrictions apply. See program eligibility requirements and terms and conditions for more information.

†Subject to eligibility; restrictions apply. See program eligibility requirements and terms and conditions for more information.

 

Which fertility medications can Fertility LifeLines™ help me afford?

If you qualify, you may be eligible for savings on the following treatment options:

• GONAL-F® (follitropin alfa for injection)

• Ovidrel® PreFilled Syringe (choriogonadotropin alfa injection)

• Cetrotide® (cetrorelix acetate for injection)

 

Learn more about each option on the EMD Serono Fertility Website.

 

How can I learn more about EMD Serono Fertility products?

Please visit emdseronofertility.com to learn more about our fertility products and access information about taking your medication, including how-to videos and Patient Information.

Program Eligibility

How do I know if I’m eligible?

To find out if you’re eligible, click Apply Now and complete the application. After providing your information, you’ll find out if you’re approved for financial savings in just 2 to 3 business days.

 

If I’m using private health insurance to cover my EMD Serono Fertility medication(s), can I still be considered for an EMD Serono Fertility medication savings program?

If you plan to use private health insurance to cover the costs of EMD Serono Fertility medication(s), you will not be eligible for further savings consideration through our fertility medication savings program. However, if you have private health insurance but do not plan to use it to cover EMD Serono Fertility medication(s), you will be eligible to apply for potential fertility medication savings consideration through our Fertility LifeLines™ program. Other eligibility restrictions apply.

 

Do I have to be undergoing IVF (in vitro fertilization) to qualify for assistance?

No, there are no restrictions around the cycle you are undergoing while using EMD Serono Fertility medications. However, both EMD Serono Fertility medication savings programs only provide discounts on EMD Serono Fertility medication.

Compassionate Care Program

What is the Compassionate Care Program?

The EMD Serono Compassionate Care Program provides fertility medication savings to eligible self-pay patients pursuing fertility treatment, based on financial need or military status. This program could help you save on EMD Serono Fertility medication if you are:

 

• Undergoing In vitro fertilization (IVF), ovulation induction with stimulation medications (OI), or intrauterine insemination (IUI) treatments

• Receiving oncofertility care

• Transitioning or part of the LGBTQIA+ community

• Preserving eggs and embryos for future family planning

• Using a surrogate or sperm donor‡

 

‡Financial savings must be awarded to a patient who is prescribed the EMD Serono fertility medication. If you are pursuing third-party reproduction with a gestational carrier (surrogate), please ensure the applicant information is for the gestational carrier themselves (the patient prescribed the medication).

 

How much could I save through the Compassionate Care Program?

For income-based eligible patients, the Compassionate Care Program could offer savings of up to 50%§ off of your self-pay price.

 

§Subject to eligibility; restrictions apply. View program eligibility requirements and terms and conditions for more information.

 

How much has the Compassionate Care Program saved patients?

Compassionate Care was designed to make fertility treatments more affordable if your medications are not fully covered by private health insurance or if you’re a self-pay patient. The program enrolled nearly 139,000 patients from 2013-2023, saving them approximately $69 million, total.∥

 

∥Based on annual savings data.

 

Does EMD Serono offer replacement medication if my cycle is cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances?

EMD Serono offers replacement medication to eligible patients whose cycle was cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. You may be eligible for drug replacement if cycle cancellation took place after your stimulation cycle began before your egg retrieval procedure.

 

If you feel these criteria may apply to your circumstances, ask your doctor to contact the EMD Serono Fertility Network Pharmacy who filled your prescription to begin the application for replacement medication at no charge.

 

Subject to eligibility; restrictions apply.

Resources for Veterans and Their Spouses

Does EMD Serono Fertility offer discounts for veterans?

Yes! All active or retired military members automatically qualify for a discount for EMD Serono Fertility medications, but you could qualify for more based on financial eligibility and whether infertility is caused by a service-related injury.

 

How much could I save through the Compassionate Corps Program?

Active, retired, and veteran members of the military could save a minimum of 10% off and up to 50% off the cost of EMD Serono Fertility medication.**

If you’ve received an infertility diagnosis as a result of an injury in the line of duty, you may qualify for more than 50% savings off your EMD Serono fertility medications. Please call 1-866-LETS-TRY (538-7879) to determine if you are eligible.

 

**Subject to eligibility; restrictions apply. View program eligibility requirements and terms and conditions for more information.

Who Fertility LifeLines™ Supports

How do I know if Fertility LifeLines™ is for me?

Fertility LifeLines™ is designed to make fertility medication more affordable for anyone who qualifies for financial support. You may benefit from an EMD Serono Fertility savings program if you are:

 

• Undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), ovulation induction with stimulation medications (OI), or intrauterine insemination (IUI) treatments

• Receiving oncofertility care

• Transitioning or part of the LGBTQIA+ community

• Active or retired military

• Preserving eggs and embryos for future family planning

• Using a surrogate or sperm donor

 

What resources does Fertility LifeLines™ provide the LGBTQIA+ community?

EMD Serono is committed to helping eligible prospective parents of all genders and sexual orientations access the fertility medications they may need to preserve their fertility or become future parents.

 

If you have specific questions, please call 1-866-LETS-TRY (538-7879) or email us at FertilityLifeLines@emdserono.com.

Application Process

How do I apply for savings though Fertility Lifelines™?

To apply for savings, click the “Apply Now” button at the top of the page or you can start the application here.

 

After that, there are 3 simple steps:

1. See if you could be eligible. Answer a few questions to quickly see if you could be eligible for fertility medication savings.

2. Provide your information. Supply information about your specific circumstances and proof of income.

3. Hear from us. Hear from us in 2 to 3 business days with confirmation of your fertility medication savings and next steps.

 

What do I need in order to apply?

Before applying, make sure you have a copy of your most recent tax return (form 1040, 1040EZ, or 1040A) or IRS tax transcript. You will provide basic identification and contact information during the application process. If you are active or retired military, you’ll also submit a current military ID card or form DD-214 as proof of your military status.

 

What if I do not have the required documents?

If you do not have the required income documents, please send an email to FertilityLifeLines@emdserono.com to receive further direction.

 

How do I create a Fertility LifeLines™ account?

Creating your personal account is the second step in the application process. Just click the “Apply Now” button at the top of the page or you can start the application now.

 

I’ve set up a Fertility LifeLines™ account, but I forgot my password. How do I reset it?

Please click “Forgot password” on the Account Login screen. Then, you’ll be asked to provide your email address. If your email address is associated with an existing Fertility LifeLines™ account, we will send you an email with a link to reset your password.

 

How can I contact someone at Fertility LifeLines™?

For questions about your Fertility LifeLines™ application, please call 1-866-LETS-TRY (538-7879) or email us at FertilityLifeLines@emdserono.com.

 

How long will it take for my application to be reviewed?

The review process typically takes 2 to 3 business days. Once the review is complete you will be notified via email or text. If your application is incomplete, we’ll contact you via email or text to let you know what’s missing and how to submit the required information.

 

If my application is approved, how long will I be eligible for discounted EMD Serono Fertility medication?

Your program eligibility will automatically expire after 365 days. At that time, you may re-apply and will need to provide updated information.

Application Troubleshooting

I started an application. How long do I have to complete it?

Your application will stay active for 14 days. After that timeframe, you’ll need to start a new application.

 

Can I cancel an application I’ve started?

If you start an application but do not submit it within 14 calendar days from the date you started it, the application will automatically be withdrawn. You can always come back and re-apply at any time.

 

What if I need to upload more documentation?

If you need to upload additional documents or have submitted incorrect documentation, please allow up to 2 to 3 business days for your application to be processed. You will receive an email or text indicating you have ‘Missing Information’, at which time you will be permitted to upload additional documentation in the portal.

 

What if my application is not accepted/approved?

There may be other ways we can help. Call 1-866-LETS-TRY (538-7879) to talk with a Fertility LifeLines™ representative about your particular circumstance. If your circumstances change, you can also provide updated information and re-apply.

 

Do I need to wait a certain amount of time before applying again?

Your eligibility determination is valid for 365 days. However, if your circumstances change, you can provide updated information and re-apply at any time.

 

For additional questions, please contact us at 1-866-LETS-TRY (538-7879).

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IMPORTANT RISK INFORMATION & INDICATIONS

Summary of CONTRAINDICATIONS

Gonal-f® RFF* Redi-ject® (follitropin alfa injection) and Gonal-f® Multi-Dose (follitropin alfa for injection) are contraindicated in patients with prior hypersensitivity to r-hFSH or excipients, high levels of FSH indicating primary gonadal failure, pregnancy, uncontrolled thyroid, adrenal or pituitary disorders, sex hormone dependent tumors of the reproductive tract/accessory organs, tumors of pituitary gland or hypothalamus, abnormal uterine bleeding of undetermined origin and ovarian cyst or enlargement of undetermined origin.

Please scroll for full IMPORTANT RISK INFORMATION for Gonal-f® RFF* Redi-ject® and Gonal-f® Multi-Dose talk to your doctor.

*RFF : Revised Formulation Female

Important Risk Information for Gonal-f® RFF* Redi-ject® (follitropin alfa injection)

Do not use Gonal‐f® RFF* Redi‐ject® if you:

  • are allergic to recombinant human FSH or any of the ingredients listed on the product carton or package insert
  • have levels of FSH indicating primary gonadal failure
  • are pregnant or think you may be pregnant due to the potential hazard to a fetus
  • have uncontrolled thyroid, adrenal or pituitary problems
  • have a tumor in your female organs, including your ovaries, breast, or uterus
  • have a tumor in your brain, such as a tumor in your pituitary or hypothalamus
  • have abnormal bleeding from your uterus or vagina
  • have ovarian cysts or large ovaries with unknown cause, not due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Before using Gonal‐f® RFF* Redi‐ject®, tell your healthcare provider about your medical history including any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements used, whether you have or have had asthma, abdominal surgery, ovarian cysts, polycystic ovarian disease, blood clots (thrombosis) or family history of blood clots, or are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Gonal‐f® RFF* Redi‐ject® may cause serious side effects, including:

  • Severe or fatal allergic reactions. Stop using Gonal‐f® RFF* Redi‐ject® and go to the hospital right away if you have symptoms of an allergic reaction which can include shortness of breath, swelling of your face, itchy, red bumps or rash on your skin (hives).
  • Stomach bloating or pain caused by enlargement of your ovaries, or fluid build-up in your stomach, chest and heart caused by ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). OHSS can require hospitalization and in rare cases has caused death. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have symptoms of OHSS, including trouble breathing, severe lower stomach (pelvic) area pain, decreased urine output, nausea, vomiting, weight gain, and diarrhea.
  • Gonal-f® RFF* can also cause or worsen lung problems (including severe shortness of breath and asthma), blood and blood vessel problems (including clots and stroke) which in rare cases have caused death.
  • Twisting of your ovary, which requires medical attention.
  • Chances of having a baby with birth defects may increase in a baby born after an ART cycle and can be impacted by maternal age, paternal sperm problems, and genetic background associated with the egg and sperm.
  • Use of Gonal‐f® RFF* Redi‐ject® can result in pregnancy with more than 1 baby and the birth of multiple babies.
  • Ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside your womb).
  • An increased risk of miscarriage.
  • If you have used fertility medicines like Gonal‐f® RFF* Redi‐ject® before to get pregnant, you may have an increased chance of having tumors in your ovary(ies) (including cancer).
  • Ultrasound and lab tests should be used to monitor treatment.

The most common side effects of Gonal‐f® RFF* Redi‐ject® include:

  • In Ovulation Induction headache, abdominal pain, and ovarian hyperstimulation
  • In ART - abdominal pain, nausea, abdominal enlargement, headache and injection site bruising

These are not all the possible side effects of Gonal‐f® RFF* Redi‐ject®. For more information, read the product labeling, and ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1‐800‐FDA‐1088.

Use Gonal‐f® RFF* Redi‐ject® as directed and do not change your dose unless directed. Do not share your Gonal‐f® RFF* Redi‐ject® and needles with another person; you may give another person an infection or get an infection from them.

Carefully review the Gonal‐f® RFF* Redi‐ject® Instructions for Use that comes with the Pen for information about the correct use of Gonal‐f® RFF* Redi‐ject® and follow all training and instruction provided by your healthcare provider.

Indications and Usage

Gonal‐f® RFF* Redi‐ject® (follitropin alfa injection) is a prescription medicine containing follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) used in infertile women to:

  • help ovulation and pregnancy in women who are infertile due to a cause other than primary ovarian failure
  • cause your ovaries to make multiple (more than 1) eggs as part of an Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) program 

Please see full Prescribing information here and talk to your doctor.

*RFF, Revised Formulation Female

Important Risk Information for Gonal-f® Multi-Dose (follitropin alfa for injection)

Do not use Gonal‐f® Multi-Dose if you:

 

  • Are allergic to recombinant human FSH or any of the ingredients listed on the product carton or insert
  • Have uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal problems
  • Have a tumor in your female organs, including your ovaries, breast, or uterus or permanent damage to the male sex organs (testes)
  • Have a tumor in your brain, such as a tumor in your pituitary
  • Have abnormal bleeding from your uterus or vagina
  • Have ovarian cysts or large ovaries, not due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant

Before using Gonal‐f® Multi-Dose, tell your healthcare provider about your medical history including any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements used, whether you have or have had asthma, abdominal surgery, ovarian cysts, polycystic ovarian disease, blood clots (thrombosis) or family history of blood clots, or are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Gonal‐f® Multi-Dose may cause serious side effects, including:

 

  • Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a serious side effect. OHSS can be mild, moderate or severe, and in rare cases, has caused death. Mild symptoms can progress to more serious symptoms and immediate evaluation by your doctor is necessary. Early signs of OHSS include trouble breathing, severe lower stomach (pelvic) area pain, nausea, vomiting, weight gain. Call your health care provider right away. Symptoms include stomach pain, stomach bloating, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, enlargement of ovaries, difficulty breathing and a drop in urine output
  • Gonal-f® Multi-Dose can also cause or worsen lung problems (including acute respiratory distress syndrome and asthma), blood and blood vessel problems (including clots and stroke) which in rare cases have caused death.
  • Use of Gonal‐f® Multi-Dose can result in pregnancy with more than one baby and the birth of multiple babies.
  • Stop using Gonal‐f® and go to the hospital right away if you have symptoms of an allergic reaction which can include shortness of breath, swelling of your face, itchy, red bumps or rash on your skin (hives).

Other serious side effects include:

  • Gonal‐f® Multi-Dose can also cause or worsen lung problems (including asthma), blood and blood vessel problems (including clots and stroke), or twisting of your ovary, which require medical attention
  • Miscarriage, or ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside your womb)
  • Chances of having a baby with birth defects may increase in a baby born after an ART cycle and can be impacted by maternal age, paternal sperm problems, and genetic background associated with the egg and sperm.
  • It is not known if this drug is excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in the nursing infant from Gonal-f, a decision should be made whether to stop nursing or stop the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

The most common side effects of Gonal‐f® Multi-Dose include

  • Headache
  • Stomach pain
  • Stomach bloating
  • Bruising at the injection site
  • Nausea
  • Other side effects reported include sinus infections and ovarian cysts

In men, common side effects include

  • Skin pimples
  • Breast pain and growth
  • Tiredness

These are not all the possible side effects of Gonal‐f®. For more information, read the product labeling, and ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1‐800‐FDA‐1088.

Use Gonal‐f® Multi-Dose as directed and do not change your dose unless directed. Do not share your Gonal‐f® Multi-Dose and needles with another person; you may give another person an infection or get an infection from them.

Carefully review the Gonal‐f® Multi‐Dose Patient Information Leaflet that comes with the product and follow all training and instruction provided by your healthcare provider. The injection syringes provided with the product should only be used with Gonal‐f® Multi‐Dose and should not be used to administer any other drug or hormone.

Indications for Gonal-f® Multi-Dose

Gonal‐f® Multi-Dose is a prescription medicine containing follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) used in infertile women to:

  • Help ovulation and pregnancy in women who are infertile due to a cause other than primary ovarian failure
  • Cause your ovaries to make multiple (more than 1) eggs as part of an Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) program
  • Cause your ovaries to develop multiple (more than one) eggs as part of an Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) program

Gonal‐f® Multi-Dose can also be prescribed to increase sperm production in men with a rare medical condition.

Important Risk Information for Cetrotide® (cetrorelix acetate for injection)

Who should not use Cetrotide®?

  • Patients that are allergic to cetrorelix acetate, mannitol, or exogenous peptide hormones (medicines similar to Cetrotide®) should not use Cetrotide®.
  • If you have had severe allergic reactions to any drugs in a previous IVF cycle, tell your doctor.
  • Cetrotide® should not be used in patients who are pregnant, think they might be pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
  • Cetrotide® should not be used in patients with kidney disease.

Before starting Cetrotide®, tell your healthcare professional about all your medical conditions. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements

What is the most important information I should know before starting Cetrotide®?

  • Your doctor will confirm you are not pregnant.

What are the possible side effects of Cetrotide®?

Cetrotide® may cause serious side effects including:

  • Allergic reactions including anaphylactic reaction with the first dose. Treatment with Cetrotide® is not advised in women with severe allergic conditions.
  • Your doctor should review with you the risks and benefits of using Cetrotide®.
  • It is not known if Cetrotide® is excreted in human milk. Because the effects of Cetrotide® on nursing mothers or the nursing infant are not known, do not use Cetrotide® if you are breastfeeding.

Common side effects of using Cetrotide® include:

  • Mild and short-lasting reactions may occur at the injection site like reddening, itching, and swelling. Nausea and headache have also been reported.

Call your doctor if you have any other side effect or if you are unsure about the effect of this medicine.

These are not all the possible side effects of Cetrotide®. For more information, read the product labeling, and ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1‐800‐FDA‐1088.

Indication for Cetrotide®

What are the uses of Cetrotide®?

Cetrotide® blocks the effects of a natural hormone, called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). GnRH controls the secretion of another hormone, called luteinizing hormone (LH), which induces ovulation during the menstrual cycle.

Cetrotide® blocks undesirable premature ovulation. Premature ovulation may lead to eggs that are not available for egg retrieval.

Please see full Prescribing information here and talk to your doctor.

Important Risk Information for Ovidrel® PreFilled Syringe (choriogonadotropin alfa injection)

Who should not use Ovidrel® PreFilled Syringe?

Ovidrel® Pre-Filled Syringe should not be used in patients:

  • With allergies to hCG or any other ingredients in the medication
  • With primary ovarian failure (the ovaries no longer produce eggs)
  • With uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal disease
  • Cancer of the brain such as pituitary tumor
  • With a history of abnormal bleeding from the uterus or vagina
  • With swollen, enlarged, or painful ovaries
  • With cancer of the sex organs
  • Who are pregnant

Before starting Ovidrel®, tell your healthcare professional about all your medical conditions. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

What is the most important information I should know before taking Ovidrel?

  • Mild to moderate uncomplicated ovarian enlargement which may be accompanied by abdominal distention and/or abdominal pain may occur in patients treated with FSH and hCG.
  • Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) may progress rapidly from uncomplicated ovarian enlargement and become a serious medical event. Early signs of OHSS include severe pelvic pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight gain. Call your doctor right away if you think you might be having symptoms of OHSS.
  • Treatment with Ovidrel® may result in becoming pregnant with more than one baby.
  • Blood clots may result from treatment with Ovidrel®.
  • It is not known whether this drug is present in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, tell your doctor if you are nursing.

What are the most common side effects of Ovidrel® Pre-Filled Syringe?

The most common side effects in women using Ovidrel® Pre-Filled Syringe include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Needle injections may cause some discomfort.

These are not all the possible side effects of Ovidrel®. For more information, read the product labeling, and ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1‐800‐FDA‐1088.

Indication for Ovidrel®

What are the uses of Ovidrel® Pre-Filled Syringe (choriogonadotropin alfa injection)?

Ovidrel® Pre-Filled Syringe (choriogonadotropin alfa injection) is indicated for the final egg maturation to get ready for egg retrieval. Women who receive Ovidrel® have undergone pituitary desensitization and have been appropriately pre-treated with follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) as a part of an Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) program such as in vitro (IVF) fertilization and embryo transfer.

Ovidrel® Pre-Filled Syringe is also indicated for the induction of ovulation (OI) and pregnancy in infertile patients who do not ovulate, and in whom the cause of infertility is functional and not due to primary ovarian failure

Please see full Prescribing information here and talk to your doctor.

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EMD Serono is the Healthcare business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany in the U.S. and Canada.

Gonal-F, Redi-Ject, Cetrotide, and Ovidrel are registered trademarks of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany or its affiliates. Fertility LifeLinesTM is a trademark of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany or its affiliates.

This website is intended only for residents of the United States. 

Use and access of this site are subject to the terms and conditions set out in our Legal Statement and Privacy Policy.

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For questions about your Fertility LifeLines™ application, please contact us at 1-866-LETS-TRY (538-7879).