Luteinizing hormone releasing hormone analogues for contraception
Nillius, S.J.
Clinics in Obstetrics and Gynaecology 11(3): 551-572
1984
ISSN/ISBN: 0306-3356 PMID: 6391776 Document Number: 224551
Peptide contraception based on potent, longacting analogues of luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) represents a new area of fertility control. Since the hypothalamic peptides exert specific actions on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal system and lack systemic effects, they are less likely than steroids to cause metabolic derangements. The main mechanism of action of chronic LHRH agonist treatment appears to be pituitary desensitization of the processes responsible for gonadotropin secretion. In women, ovulation can be inhibited by continuous intranasal application of LHRH agonists. However, other forms of administration (e.g. implants, longacting injectables) may have advantages. In men, higher doses are required to suppress gonadotropin secretion enough to affect spermatogenesis. Superagonists of LHRH must be administered in combination with testosterone to induce oligospermia or azoospermia without impotence. To date, the results of clinical trials with superagonists of LHRH for induction of inadequate corpus luteum function, luteolysis, or early abortion have not been impressive.