Overview
Women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation need a way to prevent the body from ovulating too early. Cetrorelix acetate is an injectable peptide approved for exactly that purpose.
Key Takeaways
- Cetrorelix acetate is approved to inhibit premature LH surges during controlled ovarian stimulation.
- It is marketed under the brand name cetrorelix acetate.
- More than 140 trials involving cetrorelix are registered, spanning fertility and other indications.
- FAERS reports are dominated by ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and related reproductive events.
- Reported gastrointestinal effects include abdominal distension, abdominal pain, and nausea.
What Cetrorelix Is
Cetrorelix is a synthetic peptide compound, identifiable by PubChem CID 25074887, formulated for injection. It is sold as cetrorelix acetate.
What Cetrorelix Is Approved For
Cetrorelix acetate for injection is indicated for the inhibition of premature LH surges in women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation. This use targets a specific step in assisted reproduction protocols, preventing early ovulation before egg retrieval.
What the Evidence Shows
More than 140 trials involving cetrorelix are registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. One phase 3 trial examined cetrorelix pamoate regimens in patients with symptomatic benign prostatic hypertrophy, though it was terminated. A phase 2 trial is currently recruiting to compare dydrogesterone with GnRH antagonist therapy, including cetrorelix, in poor responders undergoing double ovarian stimulation. A separate recruiting study is evaluating serum FSH monitoring during ovarian stimulation.
Reported Side Effects
FAERS data reflect adverse event reports, not confirmed incidence or causation. The most frequently reported reaction is ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (133 reports), reflecting cetrorelix's role in fertility treatment. Other reproductive events include drug ineffective (42), premature ovulation (40), and spontaneous abortion (38). Gastrointestinal and abdominal complaints also appear, including ascites (28), abdominal distension (27), abdominal pain (26), and nausea (24).