SERUM LH, FSH AND TESTOSTERONE RESPONSE TO ADMINISTRATION OF A NEW LH-RH ANALOG, D-TRP6-LH-RH, IN NORMAL MEN

  • 1 January 1977
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 22  (2) , 77-84
Abstract
A long-acting superactive analog of LH-RH [luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone], D-Trp6-LH-RH was given to 23 normal men by several routes of administration (i.v., i.m., s.c. continuous infusion) and in increasing doses of 1-50 .mu.g. LH and FSH [follicle-stimulating hormone] responses were obtained at doses as low as 2.5 .mu.g. The maximal absolute LH and FSH increment in response to a 10 .mu.g i.v. bolus injection of this analog was similar to 100 .mu.g of LH-RH. After administration of the analog the LH and FSH level was maintained at a higher than basal level for at least 8 h. With a 50 .mu.g i.v. bolus injection, from 30 min onwards the increases in LH levels were significantly greater (P < 0.05) than those elicited by the 10 .mu.g dose for at least 8 h. Maximum release of LH and FSH was observed when this same dose was given as continuous infusion for 8 h (P < 0.05). There seemed to be no significant differences between the i.m. and s.c. routes. Following the administration of D-Trp6-LH-RH, testosterone levels were maintained above normal values (P < 0.02). High potency and prolonged duration of action of this compound suggest its potential usefulness for increasing testosterone levels and stimulation of spermatogenesis in men.