Pharmaceuticals known as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists work by preventing the function of GnRH, which in turn modifies the endocrine system. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), two hormones that are essential to reproductive activities, are released in response to signals from GnRH. The mode of action of GnRH antagonists is different from that of GnRH agonists. Antagonists directly inhibit GnRH receptors, stopping the surge in LH and FSH, whereas agonists first promote the release of LH and FSH before desensitizing the receptors. Gonadal function is quickly and irreversibly suppressed as a result. The use of GnRH antagonists in assisted reproductive technology (ART) is one such use. These antagonists are used in the setting of in vitro fertilization (IVF) to stop early ovulation. GnRH antagonists aid in regulating the timing of ovulation by reducing the rise in LH, which creates ideal circumstances for egg retrieval and fertilization. GnRH antagonists like ganirelix and cetrorelix are frequently utilized. These medications are applied subcutaneously, and because of their brief half-lives, their effects are quickly reversible. GnRH antagonists are usually started during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, which is also when IVF protocols start exogenous gonadotropin injection. In some clinical situations, GnRH antagonists are superior to GnRH agonists. They provide a quicker start to activity, which lowers the possibility of early ovulation and the problems that come with it in ART cycles. Additionally, a more flexible and patient-friendly treatment strategy is possible because to the shorter suppression period. Although GnRH antagonists are effective, they can cause injection site responses, headaches, and gastrointestinal discomfort, among other side effects. These side effects are usually well-tolerated and minor, nevertheless. Finally, it should be noted that GnRH antagonists are essential in the field of reproductive medicine, especially during ART cycles. They are useful instruments for maximizing fertility treatments because of their capacity to quickly and reversibly decrease gonadal function, providing patients with a more convenient and controlled method of assisted reproduction.
