Gonadorelin
Gonadorelin binds the GnRH receptor on pituitary gonadotrophs, a Gq-coupled receptor that activates phospholipase C and downstream calcium and PKC signaling to drive synthesis and secretion of LH and FSH. Physiologic GnRH is released in pulses, and pulse frequency differentially favors LH or FSH; continuous (non-pulsatile) exposure instead desensitizes and downregulates the receptor. Its very short half-life means sustained effect requires pulsatile delivery.
Onset and duration vary by individual; see the mechanism and half-life above.
Store the lyophilized powder refrigerated (2 to 8 C), or frozen for long-term storage, protected from light. After reconstitution with bacteriostatic water, keep refrigerated and use within about 4 weeks.
Clinical Evidence
What the literature says
Scientific Overview
The 100 mcg single-bolus test is validated for assessing pituitary gonadotrope reserve. Pulsatile pump regimens are established for ovulation induction. The popular off-label use to preserve fertility and testicular size during testosterone therapy relies on mechanistic extrapolation and small clinical reports rather than large randomized trials, and is constrained by gonadorelin's very short half-life. According to PubMed, pharmacokinetics differ markedly by route (Handelsman DJ et al., J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1984).
Pharmacokinetics
- Half-life (t½)
- 18 min
- Approximate plasma half-life
- Routes
- SubcutaneousIntravenous
Citations (3)
Last reviewed: 2026-06-15
Research Guide
How users approach this compound
The following reflects patterns observed in research literature and community protocols. This is not medical advice and does not constitute a clinical recommendation.
Typical Dose Range Observed
Research Protocols
Common DosagesDiagnostic
“Per historical Factrel labeling; LH sampled at baseline and timed intervals”
Pulsatile (fertility)
“Approved-context regimen; requires an infusion pump”
Off-label / educational
“No FDA-approved TRT/fertility-support dosing; short half-life requires frequent administration”
Dosages listed are common research protocols found in peer-reviewed literature and clinical trials. Individual results and requirements may vary significantly in a research context.
Reported Uses
- Diagnostic evaluation of pituitary gonadotrope function
- Pulsatile ovulation induction in hypothalamic amenorrhea
- Off-label support of the gonadal axis during testosterone therapy (not approved)
Key Research Benefits
- Stimulates pituitary release of LH and FSH (approved diagnostic use)
- Pulsatile dosing can induce ovulation in hypothalamic amenorrhea (historical approved use)
- Off-label and educational: may help maintain testicular volume and intratesticular testosterone in men on exogenous testosterone (not FDA-approved for this use)
Potential Side Effects
Considerations and Cautions
Labs to monitor
Educational context only, not a testing mandate. Any bloodwork decisions belong with your clinician.
- LH and FSH: Direct pituitary response; baseline and post-stimulation.
- Total and free testosterone, estradiol: Downstream effects, relevant to off-label male use.
- Hematocrit: Watch for secondary erythrocytosis if androgens rise.
Dose Calculator
Peptide Reconstitution Calculator
Total amount of peptide in the vial.
Volume of water used to mix.
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or 0.10 mL on a U-100 syringe
Gonadorelin by goal
Read Gonadorelin's profile filtered through specific research goals.
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Not medical advice
Information on DoseVault is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider.