GnRH agonists mechanism?

GnRH agonists mechanism?

• A. Inhibit the pituitary from releasing FSH and LH
• B. Reduce estrogen production directly
• C. They trigger the pituitary gland to release FSH and LH
• D. They block ovarian function

Answer: (D)

GnRH agonists work by downregulating GnRH receptors in the pituitary when given continuously, which gradually suppresses secretion of FSH and LH. With less FSH and LH, the ovaries produce less estrogen and effectively have reduced function. So describing the mechanism as blocking ovarian function captures the net outcome of this pituitary suppression, even though the direct action is pituitary receptor desensitization. It’s worth noting that initially these agonists can cause a transient surge in FSH and LH (a flare) before the downregulation kicks in; the long-term effect is suppression of ovarian activity, not ongoing stimulation.

GnRH agonists work by downregulating GnRH receptors in the pituitary when given continuously, which gradually suppresses secretion of FSH and LH. With less FSH and LH, the ovaries produce less estrogen and effectively have reduced function. So describing the mechanism as blocking ovarian function captures the net outcome of this pituitary suppression, even though the direct action is pituitary receptor desensitization. It’s worth noting that initially these agonists can cause a transient surge in FSH and LH (a flare) before the downregulation kicks in; the long-term effect is suppression of ovarian activity, not ongoing stimulation.