Lupron is a GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) agonist often used during assisted reproduction, along with injectable gonadotropin hormones like FSH and LH. Below, we will take a look at how Lupron works, and how the medication can be used in IVF cycles.

How Lupron Works

Lupron first stimulates and then suppresses the pituitary gland. First, Lupron briefly stimulates the pituitary gland to produce luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), which is known as the agonist or flare phase. When the drug is continued, it eventually suppresses the pituitary and halts the production of LH and FSH, which are involved in ovulation and egg maturation.It takes a few weeks of medication with Lupron to reach the suppression phase, so Lupron IVF treatment begins several weeks before of the other medications begin.

Uses of Lupron

Lupron is typically used for one of three purposes:

• To suppress the pituitary gland and prevent ovulation
• As the trigger injection prior to egg retrieval; Lupron carries a lower risk of ovarian hyperstimulation than other fertility drugs
• As part of a protocol for women who have a history of responding poorly to fertility drugs

Lupron suppression is most commonly used during frozen embryo transfer cycles and egg donation cycles, when it is important to prevent the woman from ovulating. In the past, the drug was frequently used for ovulation suppression in fresh IVF cycles, but drugs like Cetrotide or Ganirelix are better for that purpose.In fresh IVF cycles, Lupron is usually given for a few days before injectable fertility medications are stated, or at the end of the cycle in place of the hCG trigger injection. Lupron is not commonly used at the beginning of the cycle anymore, but it is still used as a trigger injection for women who are at risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.As you can see, a variety of fertility medication protocols can be used depending on the patient's situation and the type of procedure (fresh IVF, frozen embryo cycle, egg donor cycle) being performed. Only a doctor can tell you which fertility protocol is most appropriate for your unique situation. Dr. Randy Morris would be happy to meet with you about treatment for your infertility. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call IVF1 at (630) 357-6540.