Does Omnitrope Improve IVF Outcomes?

Omnitrope (somatropin) is a synthetic form of human growth hormone. While not FDA-approved as an in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment, growth hormone has been used as an add-on treatment for ovarian stimulation. There is conflicting evidence on whether Omnitrope and other growth hormone products improve IVF outcomes.

Does Omnitrope Increase the Number of Eggs During IVF?

Research is mixed on the effect of Omnitrope on the number of eggs retrieved during IVF. Some evidence suggests that Omnitrope may play a role in stimulating follicle development and increasing the number of mature eggs retrieved during ovarian stimulation in IVF cycles, both for women with and without poor ovarian reserve. Other studies do not show any benefit.

• A 2021 study reported an increase in the average number of eggs retrieved in women treated with Omnitrope compared to a control group.
• A 2019 systemic review indicated that growth hormone could increase the number of eggs collected in women experiencing poor ovarian reserve. This positive trend was echoed in a meta-analysis focusing on women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), which demonstrated a greater yield of oocytes with growth hormone supplementation.
• A meta-analysis looking at 16 studies using growth hormone in IVF treatment protocols found that it slightly raises the number of eggs retrieved and pregnancy rates in people who haven’t responded well to IVF treatments. The effect on live birth rates are unknown, and more research is needed to understand the role of growth hormones like Omnitrope in IVF.
• The 2019 Australian “LIGHT” study, involving women under 40 who had previously responded poorly to IVF, found only a marginal increase of eggs retrieved in the growth hormone group, with no significant differences in embryo development or the likelihood of reaching embryo transfer.
• A large randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted in 2024 found no difference in the number of eggs retrieved between the group receiving growth hormone and the control group in women with expected normal ovarian response.

How Does Omnitrope Work for IVF?

Growth hormones like Omnitrope are thought to increase the effect of gonadotropins (hormones involved in ovarian function). Increased gonadotropin activity in the ovary stimulates it to produce a follicle, which contains an egg. It also helps the ovary release the egg. Studies have shown that without growth hormone, maturation of eggs is impaired.

The scientific basis for incorporating Omnitrope into IVF protocols centers on its interaction with insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). When administered, hGH stimulates the liver to produce IGF-1, which, in turn, plays a vital role in follicular development, egg maturation, and the production of reproductive hormones. Specifically, IGF-1 is believed to enhance the ovaries' responsiveness to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a primary medication used during ovarian stimulation in IVF cycles to promote the growth of follicles. This mechanism suggests that growth hormone supplementation could be particularly beneficial for individuals with poor ovarian reserve or those who have previously exhibited a suboptimal response to ovarian stimulation.

Summary

The evidence regarding the effectiveness of Omnitrope in improving IVF outcomes is mixed and appears to be highly dependent on the specific outcome being measured and the characteristics of the patient population. While some studies and meta-analyses suggest potential benefits in terms of increased oocyte retrieval and pregnancy rates, particularly in women with poor or diminished ovarian reserve, the evidence for a consistent improvement in live birth rates, the most critical outcome, remains uncertain for the general IVF population. Follow up with your healthcare provider to learn whether Omnitrope is an appropriate option for you during your IVF treatment.