Clinical applications of gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues: a broad impact on reproductive medicine
Farrah L. Saleh, M.D.,
Hugh S. Taylor, M.D.
Affiliations
Farrah L. Saleh, M.D.
Section of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
Hugh S. Taylor, M.D.
Reprint requests: Hugh S. Taylor, M.D., Section of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, Connecticut 06520.; Section of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is central to the control of the entire hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Manipulation of GnRH, in turn, regulates pituitary response and ovarian hormone production. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues have revolutionized assisted reproductive technology and gynecologic practice. The recent advent of oral GnRH antagonists with an inherent rapid onset of action continues to transform the treatment options available for several common gynecologic conditions, including endometriosis and fibroids. Herein, we review neuroendocrine GnRH activity and discuss modulation of the reproductive axis by GnRH analogues for diverse clinical applications.
