Leuprolide, a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist, is commonly prescribed for conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and prostate cancer, as well as in certain fertility treatments (like in vitro fertilization, or IVF). It works by initially stimulating the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are key hormones for ovulation. However, with continuous use, it leads to desensitization of the GnRH receptors, resulting in a significant reduction in LH and FSH levels. This, in turn, suppresses estrogen production from the ovaries, effectively halting ovulation and menstruation.
