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GnRH agonists, antagonists, and assisted conception
André C D van Loenen1, Judith A F Huirne, Roel Schats
1Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vrije Universiteit Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Seminars in Reproductive Medicine
|January 22, 2003
Summary
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and antagonists effectively block pituitary gonadotropin secretion. These medications are crucial in assisted reproduction treatments (ART) to prevent premature luteinization and optimize outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulates pituitary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) release.
- Continuous GnRH agonist or antagonist administration can block gonadotropin secretion through desensitization or receptor blockade, respectively.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the applications of GnRH agonists and antagonists in assisted reproduction.
- To discuss the historical use of GnRH agonists and the current availability of GnRH antagonists.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of GnRH agonist and antagonist use in assisted reproduction.
- Analysis of mechanisms of action for GnRH agonists and antagonists.
Main Results:
- GnRH agonists were initially used for pituitary desensitization in assisted reproduction due to lack of antagonists.
- GnRH antagonists provide a more direct blockade of LH surge, with single- and multiple-dose options now available.
Conclusions:
- Both GnRH agonists and antagonists are vital tools in assisted reproduction.
- GnRH antagonists offer an alternative to agonists for preventing premature luteinization in ART protocols.