WhatPeptide

Gonadorelin

A synthetic decapeptide identical to endogenous gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH-I). FDA-approved historically as Factrel (diagnostic, 1978) and Lutrepulse (NDA 019687, hypothalamic amenorrhea, 1989) — both now discontinued. Currently available through compounding pharmacies as an HCG alternative.

Strong evidence FDA Approved GnRH Analog

Written by WhatPeptide Editorial Team · Last updated 2026-03-18

Half-life

IV: 2-4 min (biological); terminal: 10-40 min; duration of action: 3-5 hours

Dosage range

Diagnostic: 100 mcg IV/SC single bolus; Therapeutic (Lutrepulse): 5-20 mcg per pulse every 90-120 min SC; Compounding: 100-200 mcg SC twice daily

Administration

Subcutaneous injection

Research level

Strong

How Gonadorelin works

Binds GnRH receptors on anterior pituitary gonadotropes, activating the phospholipase C → IP3/Ca²⁺ signaling cascade. Pulsatile delivery (every 90-120 min) stimulates LH and FSH release; continuous administration causes receptor downregulation and gonadotropin suppression.

Also known as: Gonadorelin HCl, Gonadorelin acetate, GnRH, GnRH-I, LHRH, LH-RH, Gonadoliberin I, Factrel, Lutrepulse

Research relevance

Sexual Health
Moderate relevance 60

Side effects & safety

Headache and nausea at diagnostic doses Injection-site wheal-and-flare reactions Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome with pulsatile use Multiple pregnancies with fertility induction IgE-mediated hypersensitivity with prolonged use (PMID 2653043)

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to gonadorelin or excipients
Known or suspected pregnancy
Conditions where sex hormone release would be harmful (pituitary tumors, reproductive organ cancers)

Consult a healthcare provider before use if any of these apply to you.

FAQ

What is Gonadorelin? +
A synthetic decapeptide identical to endogenous gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH-I). FDA-approved historically as Factrel (diagnostic, 1978) and Lutrepulse (NDA 019687, hypothalamic amenorrhea, 1989) — both now discontinued. Currently available through compounding pharmacies as an HCG alternative. Its mechanism of action is supported by robust clinical evidence.
What is Gonadorelin researched for? +
Gonadorelin has the strongest research relevance for Sexual Health. Evidence is supported by robust clinical evidence.
What are the side effects of Gonadorelin? +
Reported side effects include Headache and nausea at diagnostic doses, Injection-site wheal-and-flare reactions, Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome with pulsatile use, Multiple pregnancies with fertility induction, IgE-mediated hypersensitivity with prolonged use (PMID 2653043). Key contraindications: Hypersensitivity to gonadorelin or excipients; Known or suspected pregnancy; Conditions where sex hormone release would be harmful (pituitary tumors, reproductive organ cancers).
Is Gonadorelin FDA approved? +
Yes, Gonadorelin has FDA approval for specific indications. Always consult a healthcare provider for appropriate use.
How is Gonadorelin administered? +
Gonadorelin is typically administered via subcutaneous route. Researched dosage range: Diagnostic: 100 mcg IV/SC single bolus; Therapeutic (Lutrepulse): 5-20 mcg per pulse every 90-120 min SC; Compounding: 100-200 mcg SC twice daily. Half-life: IV: 2-4 min (biological); terminal: 10-40 min; duration of action: 3-5 hours.

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