re: Lupron and growth hormones
May. 25th, 2003   11:09pm
 
Lupron is a type of drug called a "Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Agonist."  Gonadotropin Releasing Hormones are hormones produced in the hypothalamus gland, in the brain.  When GnRH is released in a certain way, it causes the pituitary gland to release LH (Luteinizing Hormone) and FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone.)  LH and FSH, in turn, stimulate the ovaries and testicles to produce estrogen and testosterone, respectively.
 
Lupron works by increasing the amount of GnRH from the hypothalamus.  When GnRH increases above a certain level, LH and FSH decrease.  When LH and FSH decrease, estrogen and testosterone production decreases, as well.  
 
In CAH, Lupron is used to treat kids who are undergoing Central Precocious Puberty.  If a child is very young when central puberty starts, it helps to  preserve height potential by slowing down growth and bone age.
 
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Growth Hormone is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. As its name suggests, it is needed for proper growth.  If you are GH deficient, you usually grow very slowly and are short, both as a child and as an adult.  Unlike Lupron, GH is used to speed up growth.  It is sometimes used in conjunction with Lupron, when treating CPP. 
 
GH is also being used on an experimental basis to treat growth problems in kids with CAH.  From what I understand, there is very little availabe data on final height, though initial reports---after about two years of treatment---look  promising.
 
 
Carol M.
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