Drug: Gonadotrophin Releasing Hormone (GnRH or LHRH)
GnRH is released from the normal hypothalamus. This, in turn, stimulates the release of both F.S.H. and L.H. from the pituitary. Sometimes the hypothalamus fails to function normally. As a result there is an inadequate stimulus to the pituitary to secrete F.S.H. and L.H. Giving GnRH is therefore a logical treatment for these patients. When is Gonadotrophin (GnRH) releasing hormone required ,read on
When is Gonadotrophin
(GnRH) releasing hormone required
The area of the brain above the pituitary gland is known as the hypothalamus. GnRH is released from the normal hypothalamus.
This, in turn, stimulates the release of both F.S.H. and L.H. from the
pituitary. Sometimes the hypothalamus fails to function normally. As a
result there is an inadequate stimulus to the pituitary to secrete F.S.H.
and L.H. Giving GnRH is therefore a logical treatment for these patients.
Are there any side
effects of GnRH
The incidence of multiple pregnancies
is not significantly higher than for the general population and hyperstimulation
has not been reported.
How is GnRH administered
GnRH is administered via a small
automatic pump. The patient has to wear this pump night and day usually
in a holster under the arm. The pump is set to deliver a 15 mg dose of
GnRH every 90 minutes. The hormone is given under the skin via a small
needle, the site of which is changed by the patient every 48 hours. The
drawbacks of this treatment are the discomfort of wearing the pump round
the clock and the expense.
How is this treatment
monitored for success
The response to treatment is monitored
using ultrasound, if available, or by keeping a check on the hormone levels
of F.S.H., L.H., estrogen and progesterone. A pregnancy should occur within
6 cycles of treatment if the failure of the hypothalamus is the sole cause
for infertility.
