Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonist Analogs in the Treatment of Uterine Leiomyomas

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist analogs in sustained slow-release depot or intranasal insufflation formulations have demonstrated reversible hypoestrogenism, reductions in uterine or leiomyoma volumes, and relief of symptoms in premenopausal women with symptomatic uterine leiomyomas. The convenience of the once-monthly depot formulation may ensure better compliance and more complete hypoestrogenism than daily multiple dosing with the nasal preparation. Further studies may be needed to confirm the effectiveness of preoperative use of GnRH agonist analogs in postponing surgery, alleviating symptoms, improving hematologic parameters, and facilitating more conservative surgery.