Several different medications can artificially trigger (and sustain) the development of follicles with egg cells.

The first line of treatment is often oral medications, such as Metformin or clomiphene citrate (Clomid/Serophene). Some types of infertility may require injectable medications right from the start. Injectable medications called gonadotropins may include FSH, LH, HCG or combinations of all of these.

All fertility drugs can cause mood swings and increase your risk of an ovarian cyst or a multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets, or more). Infrequently, they can cause ovarian hyperstimulation, a painful condition that may require hospitalization. Some studies suggest that they may increase the risk of ovarian cancer, although other studies refute those findings. Patients using fertility medications should be closely monitored with ultrasounds of the ovaries to measure follicle growth/egg development and the thickness of the uterine lining. Hormone blood tests are also performed.

Superovulation may be prescribed for patients with unexplained infertility, those who have had unsuccessful surgical treatment for mild endometriosis, or for patients with a mild male factor. In some cases, superovulation may be used in a preliminary manner, after the patient's infertility workup but before the initial laparoscopy. If the medication is successful in producing adequate ovulation, diagnostic laparoscopic surgery may be avoided altogether.

The objective of superovulation is to stimulate the production of two to five eggs, increasing the chances for conception. In many cases, superovulation is combined with intrauterine insemination (IUI).