Cetrorelix
Cetrorelix (GnRH antagonist)
Also known as: Cetrotide
An FDA-approved GnRH antagonist used in fertility treatment to prevent premature ovulation.
Overview
Cetrorelix is a GnRH antagonist that blocks the receptor directly, immediately suppressing LH and FSH without the initial flare seen with agonists. It is FDA-approved as Cetrotide in assisted reproduction to prevent premature ovulation during ovarian stimulation. It is a standard, approved fertility peptide.
Mechanism of action
Competitively blocks GnRH receptors, producing immediate suppression of LH and FSH release.
Key studies & citations
- Human2000
Ovarian stimulation with HMG: results of a prospective randomized phase III European study comparing the LHRH-antagonist cetrorelix and the LHRH-agonist buserelin
Cetrorelix prevented premature LH surges (1.6% LH rise) with fewer gonadotropin ampoules and stimulation days than buserelin.
Human Reproduction - Review2016
Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone antagonists for assisted reproductive technology
73 RCTs: antagonist protocols substantially reduce OHSS (OR 0.61) without reducing live birth.
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Frequently asked questions
How is an antagonist different from agonists like leuprolide?
An antagonist blocks the GnRH receptor immediately with no initial flare, while agonists first stimulate before suppressing. This makes antagonists convenient in IVF.