Peptide library / Hormones & metabolism / Leuprolide
Leuprolide
A GnRH agonist used to shut down sex hormone production in prostate cancer, endometriosis and early puberty.
Effects studied or claimed
What it is used or promoted for, and where each effect has actually been seen
- Advanced prostate cancerFDA approved
- Endometriosis and fibroidsFDA approved
- Central precocious pubertyFDA approved
How it is thought to work
Leuprolide overstimulates the pituitary at first and then desensitizes it, which lowers testosterone or estrogen to very low levels.
What the evidence shows
Introduced in the 1980s, it is among the most widely used peptide drugs in oncology and gynaecology.
Safety and unknowns
Hot flushes, bone loss with long use and an initial flare of symptoms are common.
Regulatory status
FDA-approved as Lupron in 1985.
Regulatory status changes quickly. This entry was last reviewed on 27 October 2026. Confirm current status with the FDA before relying on it.
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General information, not medical advice. Do not buy or inject unregulated peptides.