Peptide Database
86 therapeutic peptides with research summaries, clinical findings, and regulatory status.
Leuprolide (Lupron)
A synthetic nonapeptide GnRH agonist approximately 15-fold more potent than native GnRH. After an initial stimulatory phase (flare effect) lasting 1-2 weeks, chronic leuprolide administration downregulates pituitary GnRH receptors, resulting in profound suppression of LH, FSH, and downstream sex steroids. This chemical castration effect is exploited in treating hormone-sensitive cancers, endometriosis, and precocious puberty.
Goserelin (Zoladex)
A synthetic decapeptide GnRH agonist administered as a biodegradable subcutaneous implant that provides sustained drug release over 1 or 3 months. Like other GnRH agonists, goserelin initially stimulates and then suppresses the HPG axis, reducing sex hormone production to castrate or postmenopausal levels. The implant formulation eliminates the need for repeated injections and ensures compliance.
Cetrorelix (Cetrotide)
A synthetic decapeptide GnRH antagonist that competitively blocks pituitary GnRH receptors, producing immediate and dose-dependent suppression of LH and FSH without the initial flare effect seen with GnRH agonists. Cetrorelix prevents premature LH surges during controlled ovarian stimulation in IVF, allowing precise timing of oocyte maturation and retrieval.
Ganirelix
A synthetic decapeptide GnRH antagonist that competitively and reversibly blocks GnRH receptors on pituitary gonadotroph cells. Ganirelix rapidly suppresses LH secretion within hours of administration, preventing premature ovulation during assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles. Its mechanism provides immediate suppression without the flare phase associated with GnRH agonists.
Carbetocin
A long-acting synthetic analog of oxytocin with a modified disulfide bridge that confers resistance to enzymatic degradation. Carbetocin has a half-life of approximately 40 minutes compared to 3-5 minutes for oxytocin, providing sustained uterotonic activity after a single injection. It selectively binds oxytocin receptors in the myometrium, promoting uterine contraction and reducing postpartum blood loss.
Atosiban
A competitive oxytocin/vasopressin V1a receptor antagonist used as a tocolytic agent to delay preterm labor. Atosiban blocks oxytocin-mediated myometrial contractions without the cardiovascular side effects associated with beta-adrenergic tocolytics. The peptide is administered as an initial bolus followed by a step-down infusion protocol over up to 48 hours.