Fertility & Reproductive

Kisspeptin-10 (Kp-10) is a bioactive 10-amino acid peptide derived from the KISS1 gene, corresponding to amino acids 45-54 of metastin. It acts as a critical regulator of reproductive function through activation of the GPR54 receptor, stimulating the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and subsequently luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Originally discovered for its anti-metastatic properties in cancer, kisspeptin-10 has emerged as a key player in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. The peptide shows therapeutic potential for fertility disorders including PCOS, hypothalamic amenorrhea, and male hypogonadism. It is currently experimental with no FDA approval and is classified as a substantial safety risk for compounding pharmacy use.

Triptorelin is a synthetic decapeptide gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist analog that was developed at Tulane University in Andrew V. Schally's laboratory and patented in 1975. It received FDA approval in 1986 and appears on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. The drug operates through a characteristic biphasic mechanism: initially stimulating the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the anterior pituitary, followed by sustained receptor downregulation that suppresses gonadotropin secretion, resulting in chemical castration within 3-4 weeks of continuous administration. This reversible suppression of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis makes triptorelin a first-line treatment for advanced prostate cancer, central precocious puberty, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids. It is also widely used in assisted reproductive technology to prevent premature ovulation during IVF cycles. Available in multiple sustained-release formulations (1-month, 3-month, and 6-month depot injections), triptorelin can be administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously. The medication is available by prescription globally and is marketed in over 80 countries for various hormone-dependent conditions.