Abstract

A new triptorelin 11.25 mg long depot formulation is now available for the treatment of central precocious puberty (CPP). The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy of triptorelin 11.25 mg administered every 90 days to suppress gonadotropin and sex steroid secretion and pubertal signs in children with CPP during 2 years of treatment. Inclusion criteria were clinical pubertal development before the age of 8 years in girls or 9 years in boys, advanced bone age and a pubertal LH response (peak >5 mIU/ml) to GnRH. We studied 20 patients (19 girls and 1 boy), with a median age at entry into, the study of 7.5 ± 0.2 years for girls, and 9 years for the boy. The basal and GnRH-stimulated serum levels of LH and FSH decreased significantly from baseline to 3 months of therapy (p <0.0001). All patients had a GnRH-stimulated peak below 3 mIU/ml between 6 and 24 months of treatment. The pituitary-gonadal axis recovered adequately after discontinuation of therapy. These results suggest that 3-month depot triptorelin is a satisfactory alternative for the therapy of children with CPP. The longer interval between injections may increase acceptability and compliance with treatment. © Freund Publishing House Ltd., London.