IVF Medication Protocols for PGT Cycles in Thailand: Common Types and Schedules

Understanding IVF Medication Protocols for PGT Cycles

When planning an IVF cycle with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) in Thailand, the medication protocol is a key part of the process. The goal of ovarian stimulation is to produce multiple eggs for fertilization and embryo biopsy. While your fertility specialist will design a protocol tailored to your individual health profile, there are several common types used in Thailand. This guide explains the typical protocols and medications, helping you understand what to expect and what questions to ask your clinic.

It is important to remember that medication protocols are medical decisions made by your treating doctor. The information below is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalized medical advice. Always confirm your specific protocol, medication brands, dosages, and schedule directly with your chosen fertility center.

Common IVF Medication Protocols

Three main types of stimulation protocols are frequently used in Thailand: the antagonist protocol, the long agonist protocol, and mild stimulation. Each has different medication schedules and is chosen based on factors like age, ovarian reserve, and previous treatment response.

Antagonist Protocol

The antagonist protocol is one of the most common protocols used today. It is shorter and involves fewer injections than the long agonist protocol.

• How it works: Stimulation begins with daily injections of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and/or luteinizing hormone (LH) to encourage multiple follicles to grow. After about 5–6 days, a GnRH antagonist (e.g., Cetrotide, Orgalutran) is added to prevent premature ovulation. When follicles reach the desired size, a trigger injection (hCG or GnRH agonist) is given to finalize egg maturation.
• Typical duration: Approximately 10–12 days of stimulation.
• Common medications: Gonal-f (follitropin alfa), Menopur (menotropin), Cetrotide (cetrorelix), and trigger shots like Ovidrel or Lupron.
• Why used for PGT: The antagonist protocol allows good control over timing, which can be helpful when coordinating egg retrieval with PGT laboratory schedules.

Long Agonist Protocol

The long agonist protocol is a traditional approach that starts before the menstrual cycle. It is often used for patients with good ovarian reserve or those who need to suppress natural hormone cycles.

• How it works: About 10–14 days before the expected period, a GnRH agonist (e.g., Lupron, Buserelin) is started to suppress the pituitary gland. Once suppression is confirmed, FSH/LH injections begin and continue for about 10–12 days. The agonist is continued until the trigger shot.
• Typical duration: Approximately 4–6 weeks total, including the suppression phase.
• Common medications: Lupron (leuprolide), Gonal-f, Menopur, and hCG trigger.
• Why used for PGT: The long protocol can yield a higher number of eggs in some patients, which may be beneficial for PGT where multiple embryos are desired.

Mild Stimulation Protocol

Mild stimulation uses lower doses of medication to produce fewer eggs (typically 2–8). It is sometimes chosen for patients with low ovarian reserve, or for those who prefer a gentler approach.

• How it works: Lower doses of FSH/LH are given, often combined with oral medications like clomiphene citrate or letrozole. A GnRH antagonist may be used to prevent ovulation. The trigger is given when follicles are ready.
• Typical duration: About 8–10 days of stimulation.
• Common medications: Clomid (clomiphene), Femara (letrozole), low-dose Gonal-f or Menopur, and Cetrotide.
• Why used for PGT: Mild stimulation may be an option for patients who cannot tolerate high doses, but it typically yields fewer embryos for biopsy, which may affect PGT feasibility.

Common Medications Used in Thailand

While brand names may vary, the following medications are commonly used in Thai fertility centers. Your clinic will prescribe specific brands and dosages based on your protocol.

Medication Type	Examples (Brand Names)	Purpose
FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)	Gonal-f, Puregon, Follitrope	Stimulate follicle growth
LH (Luteinizing Hormone) / hMG	Menopur, Pergonal	Support follicle development and estrogen production
GnRH Antagonist	Cetrotide, Orgalutran	Prevent premature ovulation
GnRH Agonist	Lupron, Buserelin, Suprefact	Suppress natural cycle (long protocol) or trigger ovulation
Trigger Medications	Ovidrel (hCG), Lupron (GnRH agonist)	Final egg maturation
Oral Medications	Clomid, Femara	Used in mild stimulation to induce ovulation

Typical Medication Schedule

While exact schedules vary, a typical antagonist protocol for PGT might look like this:

• Day 1–2: Start FSH injections (e.g., Gonal-f 300 IU daily).
• Day 5–6: Add GnRH antagonist (e.g., Cetrotide 0.25 mg daily) to prevent ovulation.
• Day 10–12: Trigger injection when follicles reach 18–20 mm.
• 36 hours after trigger: Egg retrieval.

Your clinic will provide a detailed calendar and teach you how to self-administer injections. Many international patients find it helpful to arrive in Thailand a few days before starting medication to allow for baseline monitoring.

What to Confirm with Your Clinic

Because protocols are individualized, you should ask your fertility center for the following before starting treatment:

• Which protocol type is recommended for you and why.
• Exact medication names, dosages, and injection schedules.
• Whether medications are included in the package price or billed separately.
• How to obtain medications (pharmacy on-site or prescription).
• Monitoring schedule (blood tests and ultrasounds).
• What to do if you miss a dose or have side effects.

Important Considerations for International Patients

If you are traveling to Thailand for IVF with PGT, plan your medication timeline carefully. Most clinics require you to be in Thailand for the entire stimulation phase (about 10–14 days) plus the egg retrieval and recovery. Some patients choose to bring their own medications from home, but you must check import regulations and ensure proper storage (e.g., refrigeration). Your clinic can advise on the best approach.

Also, note that medication costs can vary significantly. Some Thai fertility centers offer package deals that include standard medications, while others charge per vial. Always request a written quotation that itemizes medication costs.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the common IVF medication protocols used in Thailand can help you prepare for your PGT cycle. The antagonist, long agonist, and mild stimulation protocols each have distinct schedules and medication profiles. However, your individual protocol will be designed by your fertility specialist based on your medical history and test results. Always confirm all details directly with your chosen clinic and never make assumptions about your treatment plan.

For more information on IVF in Thailand, see our guides on IVF in Thailand, treatment process, and information for international patients.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most common IVF medication protocol for PGT in Thailand?

The antagonist protocol is one of the most commonly used protocols in Thailand for PGT cycles. It involves daily FSH injections followed by a GnRH antagonist to prevent premature ovulation, with a typical stimulation duration of 10–12 days.

What medications are typically used in IVF stimulation for PGT?

Common medications include Gonal-f (FSH), Menopur (hMG), Cetrotide (GnRH antagonist), and trigger shots like Ovidrel (hCG) or Lupron (GnRH agonist). Oral medications like Clomid or Femara may be used in mild stimulation.

How long does the medication phase last for an IVF cycle with PGT?

The stimulation phase typically lasts 10–14 days, depending on the protocol. The long agonist protocol adds a suppression phase of about 10–14 days before stimulation, making the total medication period longer.

Can I bring my own IVF medications to Thailand?

You may be able to bring medications, but you must check Thai import regulations and ensure proper storage (e.g., refrigeration). It is best to consult your clinic and a customs advisor before traveling.

Are IVF medications included in package prices at Thai clinics?

Some clinics offer packages that include standard medications, while others charge separately. Always request a written quotation that itemizes medication costs to avoid surprises.

Continue your research

• IVF in Thailand guide
• Treatment journey
• International patient guide

Medical information notice: This article is educational and does not replace individual assessment, diagnosis, genetic counselling or treatment advice from a licensed clinician. Provider services, availability, fees and policies should be verified directly before booking.