What is "nafarelin"

n. An agonist of gonadotropin-releasing hormone.

Nafarelin is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH agonist). Its proposed mechanism of action is the desensitization of pituitary GnRH receptors leading to a decrease in gonadotropin release, and ovarian hormone serum concentrations similar to those achieved in postmenopausal women. it decreases pituitary secretion of the gonadotropins luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). Nafarelin may be used in the treatment of estrogen-dependent conditions (such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids), to treat central precocious puberty, or to control ovarian stimulation in in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

Nafarelin acetate is marketed by Searle (now part of Pfizer) under the brand name Synarel. It is delivered via a nasal spray.