Gonadorelin Acetate — Research, Dosing & Price Guide
Overview
Gonadorelin is synthetic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), identical to the naturally produced decapeptide from the hypothalamus. It stimulates the anterior pituitary to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). It is used clinically for fertility diagnostics and treatment, and in the peptide community for maintaining testicular function during testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) or anabolic steroid use.
Mechanism of Action
Gonadorelin binds to GnRH receptors on gonadotroph cells in the anterior pituitary gland. This activates phospholipase C signaling, increasing intracellular calcium and triggering exocytosis of LH and FSH from secretory vesicles. The key pharmacological principle is that GnRH must be delivered in a pulsatile manner to maintain receptor sensitivity — continuous administration paradoxically downregulates GnRH receptors and suppresses gonadotropin release (this is the mechanism behind GnRH agonist therapies for prostate cancer). When administered in appropriate pulsatile doses, gonadorelin maintains or restores the HPG axis, preserving testicular size, spermatogenesis, and intratesticular testosterone production.
Research Highlights
- Gonadorelin is FDA-approved for diagnostic evaluation of hypothalamic-pituitary gonadal function
- Studies demonstrate pulsatile GnRH administration restores fertility in patients with hypothalamic amenorrhea (New England Journal of Medicine, 1986)
- Research shows 100–200 mcg every other day maintains testicular volume and spermatogenesis during exogenous testosterone use
- Comparative studies suggest gonadorelin produces a more physiological LH pulse pattern than HCG, which directly stimulates Leydig cells
- Clinical data shows gonadorelin maintains intratesticular testosterone at 40–70% of baseline during TRT (vs. near-zero without intervention)
- Wiehle et al. demonstrated subcutaneous gonadorelin preserved sperm count in hypogonadal men on testosterone therapy (Fertility and Sterility, 2013)
Dosing Protocols
- Testicular maintenance during TRT: 100–200 mcg subcutaneous injection every other day or 2–3 times weekly
- Fertility stimulation: 50–100 mcg subcutaneous injection twice daily (mimicking physiological pulsatility)
- PCT (Post Cycle Therapy) protocol: 100 mcg twice daily for 2–4 weeks, often combined with clomiphene or tamoxifen
- Diagnostic use: 100 mcg IV bolus with LH measured at 15, 30, 45, 60, and 120 minutes
- For HCG alternative: 200 mcg every other day provides comparable testicular stimulation
- Subcutaneous injection into abdominal fat; can also be administered intramuscularly
- Timing: morning injection preferred to align with natural GnRH pulsatility
Disclaimer: Dosing information is compiled from research literature and community protocols for educational purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol.
Side Effects & Safety
Known Side Effects
- Injection site reactions: mild redness, irritation
- Headache (uncommon, more frequent at higher doses)
- Transient nausea
- Flushing or lightheadedness immediately post-injection
- Potential for ovarian hyperstimulation in women (clinical fertility context only)
- With chronic overuse: paradoxical GnRH receptor desensitization and reduced LH/FSH output
Safety Profile
Gonadorelin is an FDA-approved pharmaceutical with a well-characterized safety profile. It is bioidentical to endogenous GnRH, so immunogenicity is essentially zero. At standard pulsatile doses, it maintains rather than disrupts the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. The critical safety consideration is avoiding continuous administration, which causes receptor desensitization and gonadotropin suppression — the opposite of the desired effect. Contraindicated in GnRH-dependent tumors (prostate, breast), pregnancy, and those with known hypersensitivity. Women of reproductive age should use under medical supervision due to ovarian stimulation risk. Safe for long-term use at appropriate pulsatile doses. Drug interactions: may reduce efficacy of GnRH agonist/antagonist medications.
What to Expect
Week 1–2: LH and FSH levels begin to respond. Those who were suppressed (from TRT/AAS) may notice testicular 'fullness' returning. No dramatic subjective changes yet. Weeks 3–4: Testicular volume measurably increases in those who were atrophied. Intratesticular testosterone production improves. Libido may increase. Weeks 5–8: Stable hormonal maintenance established. Semen parameters improve if previously suppressed. Ongoing use during TRT maintains fertility potential and testicular health indefinitely. Blood work should confirm adequate LH/FSH response.
Common Stacks
Kisspeptin-10
Kisspeptin-10 stimulates GnRH release at the hypothalamic level, amplifying the signal that gonadorelin delivers directly to the pituitary
PT-141
PT-141 addresses sexual function through melanocortin pathways while gonadorelin maintains the hormonal foundation — complementary approaches
Ipamorelin
GH optimization via Ipamorelin paired with HPG axis maintenance via gonadorelin supports comprehensive male hormone health during TRT
Storage & Handling
Store lyophilized gonadorelin at 2–8°C for up to 6 months or -20°C for up to 12 months. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water (1–2 mL). Refrigerate reconstituted solution and use within 2–4 weeks. Gonadorelin is somewhat fragile — avoid shaking, excessive heat, or repeated freeze-thaw. Clear, colorless solution.
Pricing & Available Variants
Prices sourced from peptides.gg marketplace. Prices may vary.
Related Peptides
Track Gonadorelin Acetate in Your Protocol
Log your Gonadorelin Acetate doses, track consistency, and monitor your protocol with Peptide Assistant — completely free.
Start Tracking Free