ABSTRACT
Chemists have synthesized large numbers of gonadotropin-releasing hormones (GnRH) agonists or derivatives that cause greater and more prolonged stimulation of gonadotropins than do naturally occurring GnRH. Gynecological conditions such as endometriosis and myomas are chronic problems often requiring prolonged or repeated treatments. Concerns about bone loss with GnRH agonist treatment prompted recent studies on hormonal replacement. Ovarian suppression by GnRH agonists for three to six months rapidly alleviates pain and causes a marked reduction of the lesions as evaluated by a second laparoscopy at the end of the treatment. GnRH agonist suppression can be used to prepare the ovaries for controlled hyperovulation in in vitro fertilization. GnRH agonists can also be combined with other medications to improve their efficacy and limit their side effects. The possibility to selectively suppress the development of a follicle and female sex hormones with the advent of GnRH agonists has allowed new strategies for the management of the frequent and chronic infections.
