Gonadorelin
Also known as: GnRH, gonadotropin-releasing hormone, Factrel, Lutrepulse
Gonadorelin is a prescription compound in many jurisdictions. For research and informational purposes only.
Overview
Synthetic form of endogenous gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) that stimulates LH and FSH release from the anterior pituitary. Used in TRT protocols to maintain testicular function and prevent atrophy during exogenous testosterone administration. Preserves spermatogenesis and endogenous testosterone production capacity.
Research Summary
Gonadorelin directly binds GnRH receptors in the anterior pituitary to trigger LH and FSH secretion, which in turn stimulates Leydig cells for testosterone production and maintains spermatogenesis. Used as a TRT adjunct, pulsatile gonadorelin administration mimics natural hypothalamic GnRH to prevent testicular suppression associated with exogenous androgen use.
Dosing Range
low
50mcg
moderate
100mcg
high
200mcg
Units: mcg · Frequency: 2–3x per week subcutaneous
Dosing ranges are aggregated from preclinical research and community protocols. Not medical dosing guidance.
Administration Routes
Reconstitution Notes
Reconstitute with sterile or bacteriostatic water. Target concentration: 100mcg/mL. Stable 14–28 days refrigerated after reconstitution.Step-by-step reconstitution guide →
Supplies you'll need
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Reported Side Effects
- Injection site reactions
- Headache
- Nausea
- Flushing
- Ovarian hyperstimulation (in women — dose-dependent)
- Desensitization with high-frequency dosing
Research Papers
2 peer-reviewed sourcesCommunity Experiences
Aggregated from public forums. Anecdotal — not clinical evidence.
Community reports on gonadorelin use during TRT for testicular maintenance and fertility preservation.
View original threadReconstitution protocols and dosing schedules for gonadorelin in TRT contexts.
View original threadOverview
Gonadorelin is the synthetic version of the endogenous decapeptide gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), produced naturally by the hypothalamus. It is secreted in a pulsatile fashion to drive the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Continuous stimulation paradoxically causes desensitization — pulsatile administration is physiologically essential.
In clinical practice, gonadorelin's primary research application is as a TRT adjunct: men on exogenous testosterone experience profound suppression of their HPG axis, leading to testicular atrophy, loss of intratesticular testosterone, and infertility. Gonadorelin restores pulsatile LH/FSH signaling to maintain testicular function.
Mechanism
- GnRH receptor binding: Gonadorelin binds GnRH receptors (GnRHR) on gonadotroph cells in the anterior pituitary
- LH and FSH release: Receptor activation triggers exocytosis of LH and FSH into portal circulation
- Leydig cell stimulation: LH reaches testicular Leydig cells → stimulates intratesticular testosterone synthesis
- Spermatogenesis: FSH supports Sertoli cells for sperm maturation
- Pulsatile dependence: Continuous exposure causes GnRHR downregulation (see triptorelin); 2–3x/week dosing mimics natural pulsatile pattern
Gonadorelin vs. hCG
| Parameter | Gonadorelin | hCG | |-----------|-------------|-----| | Mechanism | GnRH receptor agonist | LH receptor agonist | | Route | SC/intranasal | SC/IM | | LH mimicry | Indirect (via pituitary) | Direct (bypasses pituitary) | | FSH effect | Yes (via pituitary) | No | | Availability | Compounding pharmacy | Prescription injectable | | Desensitization risk | Low (pulsatile) | Low |
Use in TRT Protocols
A common protocol combines gonadorelin 100–200mcg 2–3x/week with a testosterone ester. The goal is to prevent complete intratesticular testosterone suppression and maintain testicular volume. This is relevant for men who wish to preserve fertility or who plan to eventually discontinue TRT.
Dosing Considerations
Frequency matters more than dose for gonadorelin. The 2–3x/week schedule maintains pulsatile stimulation without causing receptor downregulation. Daily dosing at low concentrations may also be used via insulin pump-style infusion in fertility protocols.
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