Evidence of GnRH Antagonist Escape in Obese Women

Context: Assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycle cancelation rates are increased among overweight and obese women; however, the reasons for this are not completely clear. Premature luteinization due to inadequate endogenous gonadotropin suppression is a possibility for this higher risk of cancellation. Objective: The objective of the study was to investigate the impact of female obesity on the pharmacokinetics of cetrorelix (GnRH antagonist). Design: This was an interventional study. Setting: The study was conducted at a university clinical and translational research center. Participants: Regularly menstruating obese (n = 10) and normal-weight (n = 10) women participated in the study. Interventions: A frequent blood sampling study was performed after a GnRH antagonist was administered, followed by recombinant LH. Main Outcomes Measured: Pharmacokinetics of cetrorelix in obese vs normal weight women were measured. Results: Five of the obese women (50%) and none of the normal-weight women had a rebound...