Gonadorelin

Gonadorelin is a hormone that is produced by the hypothalamus. It is also known as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH). Gonadorelin is responsible for the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the anterior pituitary gland.

Function

Gonadorelin stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release FSH and LH. These hormones are essential for reproduction. FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of follicles in the ovaries in women and the production of sperm in men. LH triggers ovulation in women and the production of testosterone in men.

Clinical use

Gonadorelin is used in medicine to treat certain conditions related to the reproductive system. It is used in the diagnosis and treatment of infertility, hypogonadism, delayed puberty, and certain types of breast cancer. It is also used in veterinary medicine to induce ovulation in livestock.

Side effects

Like all medicines, gonadorelin can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Common side effects include headache, hot flushes, nausea, and abdominal pain. Rare side effects include hypersensitivity reactions and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in women.

See also

• Gonadotropin
• Hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis
• Menotropin