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Gonadorelin
Gonadorelin is a synthetic decapeptide identical to natural gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Used to maintain testicular function during testosterone replacement therapy and to evaluate pituitary function.
Gonadorelin at a glance
Gonadorelin is a synthetic decapeptide identical to natural gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Used to maintain testicular function during testosterone replacement therapy and to evaluate pituitary function. Mechanism: Synthetic GnRH. Typical route: Subcutaneous, IV. FDA status: Factrel (gonadorelin) was FDA-approved for diagnostic pituitary evaluation but was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2018 by the manufacturer (not for safety reasons). Compounded gonadorelin is dispen
Drug classSynthetic GnRH
Half-life~2-10 minutes (parenteral)
RouteSubcutaneous, IV
Common dosing100-200 mcg, 2-3x/week
FDA statusWithdrawn (commercial); compounded available
Available throughCompounding pharmacies
Mechanism of action
Gonadorelin binds the GnRH receptor on pituitary gonadotrophs, stimulating LH and FSH release. In men on testosterone replacement, gonadorelin is used to maintain testicular size and intra-testicular testosterone production by preserving the LH signal that exogenous testosterone otherwise suppresses.
Dosing reference
Subcutaneous: 100-200 mcg, two to three times weekly for testicular-function maintenance during TRT. Diagnostic dosing for pituitary evaluation uses single 100 mcg IV doses. Dosing for fertility protocols varies.
Dosing information is provided for educational reference and is not medical advice. Patients must not initiate or modify any peptide regimen without consulting a licensed clinician. See our medical disclaimer.
FDA status & regulatory framework
Factrel (gonadorelin) was FDA-approved for diagnostic pituitary evaluation but was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2018 by the manufacturer (not for safety reasons). Compounded gonadorelin is dispensed by pharmacies for off-label TRT-adjunct use.
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Frequently asked questions about Gonadorelin
Is gonadorelin a replacement for HCG?
Gonadorelin and HCG both maintain testicular function during TRT but through different mechanisms. HCG mimics LH directly at the testes; gonadorelin works upstream by triggering the pituitary's own LH/FSH release. HCG has historically been more common; gonadorelin is increasingly used as a U.S.-compounding alternative.
Why isn't gonadorelin available as a branded product?
Factrel was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2018 due to commercial decisions, not safety. Compounding pharmacies continue to dispense gonadorelin for off-label use.