In plain English
Triptorelin is a stronger, longer-lasting version of GnRH. A single small dose causes a big surge of LH and FSH. Repeated or long-acting doses do the opposite and shut the system down, which is how it treats prostate cancer. It is an FDA-approved medicine.
What it's used for
- Advanced prostate cancer (approved, Trelstar)
- Early puberty in children (approved, Triptodur)
- IVF protocols
- Restarting natural testosterone after a cycle (users)
Benefits
In human studies, a single dose of a GnRH analog such as triptorelin produces a strong short-term rise in LH, FSH and testosterone, known as the “flare” effect. Users report using one small dose as a “restart” after stopping hormones.
How it works
In simple terms: one dose gives the pituitary a huge push; constant exposure exhausts it.
It binds GnRH receptors much more tightly and for longer than natural GnRH. A single dose causes an LH and FSH surge. Ongoing exposure desensitizes the receptors, dropping testosterone or estrogen to very low levels.
Development history
- 1980s: Developed as a GnRH analog.
- 2000: FDA approves Trelstar for prostate cancer.
- 2017: FDA approves Triptodur for early puberty.
Typical protocols
Approved uses follow the prescribing label. The restart dose is what users commonly report.
| Use | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Prostate cancer (label) | 3.75 mg, 11.25 mg or 22.5 mg depot | Every 1, 3 or 6 months |
| Hormone restart (users) | 100 mcg | Once |
Cycling
For a restart, it is a single dose. Repeating it can suppress hormones instead.
Administration options
Approved depot forms are intramuscular. The small restart dose is usually given subcutaneously.
Reconstitution and dosing calculator
Research vials are often 2 mg, mixed with 2 mL of bacteriostatic water, so 100 mcg is 10 units.
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This tool does arithmetic only. It does not choose a dose or confirm that any substance is right for you. Double-check every result against your syringe and your clinician’s instructions.
Side effects and safety
- Hot flashes, headache and mood swings.
- Repeated doses lower testosterone or estrogen, with effects such as low libido, fatigue and bone loss.
- Prohibited for men in competitive sport (WADA).
- Avoid during pregnancy.
Common stacks
Usually used alone for a restart.
Storage
Powder: refrigerate. After mixing: refrigerate at 2–8 °C and use within about 3–4 weeks.
Compare with
- Gonadorelin: natural GnRH, very short-acting.
- HCG: works directly on the testicles.
Frequently asked questions
Why only one dose for a restart?
A single dose stimulates. Repeated doses push the pituitary into shutdown, the opposite of the goal.
References
- Trelstar (triptorelin pamoate) prescribing information. Verity Pharmaceuticals.