thyrotropin alfa

Also known as Thyrogen, Thyrotropin alfa is a recombinant form of thyroid stimulating hormone used in performing certain tests in patients who have or have had thyroid cancer. It is also used along with a radioactive agent to destroy remaining thyroid tissue in certain patients who have had their thyroid gland removed because of thyroid cancer. It is worth noting that the adverse reactions that have been identified during post-approval use of thyrotropin alfa include influenza-like symptoms such as fever, chills/shivering, headache and fatigue. They also include hypersensitivity symptoms such as rash, flushing, and respiratory signs. As a matter of fact, animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with thyrotropin alfa. Plus, it is also not known whether it can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproductive capacity. Therefore, thyrotropin alfa should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed.