Histrelin
Histrelin is a GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) agonist used primarily to treat central precocious puberty in children and advanced prostate cancer in adults. By continuously stimulating the pituitary gland, it initially causes a flare of hormones but then suppresses the production of sex hormones (testosterone and estrogen), leading to therapeutic effects in hormone-sensitive conditions.
Histrelin is a GnRH agonist that treats hormone-related conditions by suppressing gonadotropin secretion, used for central precocious puberty and advanced prostate cancer.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- L02AE05
- RxNorm
- 50975
- Generic
- Histrelin
- Class
- atc-l02
- Brands
- Supprelin
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of central precocious puberty (CPP) in children and palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer in adults. It is indicated when hormone suppression is medically necessary to slow premature sexual development or to reduce androgen-dependent tumor growth.
Histrelin is a GnRH agonist that initially stimulates the pituitary gland to release LH and FSH (flare phase), but with continuous daily delivery, it causes downregulation of GnRH receptors. This leads to decreased secretion of gonadotropins and subsequently reduced sex hormone production (testosterone in males, estrogen in females), creating a medically-induced hormonal suppression state.
May cause an initial exacerbation of symptoms or 'flare' before improvement. Common side effects include hot flashes, injection site reactions, and mood changes. Requires continuous administration to maintain hormone suppression—interruption may lead to return of symptoms. Contraindicated in pregnancy and known hypersensitivity. Regular monitoring of hormone levels and growth parameters is recommended, particularly in pediatric patients.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy