Novarel Side Effects: What You Should Know

If you've been prescribed Novarel (Chorionic Gonadotropin for injection), it's normal to have questions about side effects. Whether you're using it as a trigger shot for ovulation, as part of an IVF cycle, or for a hormone-related condition, knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared — and help you recognize when something needs medical attention.

This guide covers the common side effects, the serious ones to watch for, and when you should call your doctor.

What Is Novarel?

Novarel is a brand-name injectable form of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). It's used to trigger ovulation in women undergoing fertility treatment, treat certain hormonal conditions in men, and manage prepubertal cryptorchidism in boys. To learn more about how it works, see our guide on what Novarel is and how it's used.

Common Side Effects

Most people who take Novarel experience mild side effects that go away on their own. Based on FDA labeling, these include:

• Headache — one of the most frequently reported side effects
• Irritability and restlessness
• Fatigue — feeling unusually tired after injection
• Depression — mild mood changes
• Fluid retention (edema) — mild swelling or bloating
• Pain at the injection site — soreness, redness, or bruising where the shot was given
• Gynecomastia — breast tissue development in males receiving hCG

These side effects are generally mild and temporary. They often improve within a few days of the injection.

Serious Side Effects

While uncommon, some side effects of Novarel require immediate medical attention. Call your doctor or go to the emergency room if you experience any of the following:

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

This is the most significant risk for women using Novarel as part of fertility treatment. OHSS occurs when the ovaries overrespond to hormonal stimulation. Symptoms include:

• Severe abdominal pain or bloating
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Rapid weight gain (more than 5 pounds in a day)
• Decreased urination
• Difficulty breathing

OHSS can be life-threatening in severe cases. If you develop any of these symptoms after your Novarel injection, contact your fertility clinic immediately.

Severe Allergic Reactions

Signs of a serious allergic reaction include:

• Hives or rash
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing
• Dizziness or fainting

Seek emergency medical care if you experience these symptoms.

Blood Clots (Thromboembolic Events)

Novarel may increase the risk of blood clots, especially in women with OHSS. Watch for:

• Sudden swelling, warmth, or pain in one leg
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Sudden severe headache, confusion, or vision changes

Other Serious Side Effects

• Ovarian rupture — sudden, sharp pelvic pain
• Multiple pregnancies — twins, triplets, or higher-order multiples are more likely with hCG-assisted ovulation
• Sudden vision changes — blurred vision or vision loss

Side Effects in Specific Populations

Women Using Novarel for Fertility

Women are most at risk for OHSS, especially those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or those who develop many follicles during stimulation. Your fertility clinic will monitor you with bloodwork and ultrasounds to minimize this risk.

Men Using Novarel for Hormone Therapy

Men may experience gynecomastia (breast enlargement), acne, fluid retention, and mood changes. These side effects are related to hCG's effect on testosterone production.

Pediatric Patients

In boys treated for cryptorchidism, precocious puberty is a potential concern. Signs include early development of pubic hair, increased penis size, or growth spurts. Your pediatric specialist will monitor for these effects.

Pregnancy

Novarel may cause fetal harm if administered during pregnancy. It should not be used once pregnancy is confirmed. However, as a trigger shot, it is administered before conception occurs, so the timing is carefully managed by your doctor.

How to Manage Common Side Effects

Here are some practical tips for dealing with the milder side effects:

• Injection site pain: Apply ice to the area for 10-15 minutes after the shot. Rotate injection sites if you're receiving multiple doses.
• Headache: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) are generally safe — but check with your fertility doctor first, as they may advise against ibuprofen during treatment cycles.
• Bloating and fluid retention: Stay hydrated, eat high-protein meals, and avoid excessive sodium. Mild bloating is normal after a trigger shot.
• Fatigue: Rest when you can. Fatigue usually resolves within a day or two.
• Mood changes: Hormonal shifts from hCG can affect your mood. Let your support system know what you're going through, and talk to your doctor if mood changes become severe.

Final Thoughts

Most Novarel side effects are mild and manageable — headaches, injection site soreness, bloating, and fatigue are the most common. The serious side effect to watch for is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which requires immediate medical attention.

Always follow your doctor's instructions for dosing and monitoring. If you're concerned about any symptoms after your injection, don't hesitate to call your clinic.

If you're having trouble finding Novarel in stock, Medfinder can help you check pharmacy availability without calling around. And if Novarel isn't available, talk to your doctor about alternative hCG products.