Gonadorelin
Also known as: GnRH, LHRH, Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone, Factrel, Lutrepulse
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone | GnRH Agonist
Overview
Gonadorelin is a synthetic form of the naturally occurring gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). It stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which in turn regulate testosterone production in men and ovulation in women. It is FDA-approved for diagnostic testing and fertility treatment. The pulsatile nature of GnRH secretion is critical for proper reproductive function.
Key benefits
- Stimulates natural testosterone production
- Maintains testicular function during hormone therapy
- Supports fertility in hypogonadal conditions
- FDA-approved for diagnostic and therapeutic use
- Can restore LH and FSH pulsatility
- Alternative to hCG for testicular stimulation
- Preserves endogenous hormone production
Mechanism of action
Gonadorelin acts as an agonist of the GnRH receptor in the anterior pituitary. When administered in pulses (mimicking natural secretion patterns every 60-120 minutes), it stimulates release of FSH and LH. LH then stimulates Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone, or triggers ovulation in women. Continuous exposure paradoxically causes receptor downregulation and suppressed hormone production.
Molecular data
- Type
- Decapeptide
- Half-life
- 2-4 minutes
Sequence
pGlu-His-Trp-Ser-Tyr-Gly-Leu-Arg-Pro-Gly-NH2
Indications
What the research community uses this compound for, with self-reported effectiveness.
Fertility & Reproductive
Diagnostic
Hormone Optimization
Dosing protocols
Common protocols by delivery method. Adjust the curve below to model accumulation in your own cycle.
Delivery method
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| — | 100 mcg | Single injection | — |
| — | 50-100 mcg | 2-3x weekly | — |
| — | 5-20 mcg per pulse | Every 90-120 min | — |
| — | 100-200 mcg | 2-3x weekly | — |
Delivery method
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| — | As prescribed | Per protocol | — |
Safety
Reported adverse effects, contraindications, and what to monitor on cycle.
Common side effects
- Injection site reactions
- Headache
- Flushing
- Nausea
- Abdominal discomfort
Rare side effects
- Allergic reactions
- Light-headedness
- Local skin irritation
Contraindications
- Hormone-sensitive tumors
- Pregnancy
- Hypersensitivity to GnRH or analogs
- Conditions worsened by sex hormone release