GnRH antagonist in in vitro fertilization: where we are now

Abstract

This review focuses on the recent literature concerning the use of GnRH antagonists in ovulation induction for in vitro fertilization (IVF). The GnRH antagonists, ganirelix acetate (Orgalutran/Antagon) and cetrorelix (Cetrotide), have come into increasingly common use since their release in the last 3 years. This class of GnRH analogue has several potential advantages over GnRH agonists. Among these advantages are: 1) shorter duration of injectable drug treatment, 2) decreased gonadotropin requirement per cycle, 3) improved patient convenience and 4) lower overall treatment cost. As clinicians gain experience with these drugs, optimal treatment paradigms will likely emerge. This review will discuss current strategies and potential applications for the GnRH antagonists.