Deslorelin Acetate
General Drug Information and Indications
GnRH agonist implant for induction of ovulation in mares; suppression of reproductive cycles in horses and ferrets.
Synthetic GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) superagonist. Mechanism: initial stimulation of GnRH receptors → LH/FSH surge → ovulation (when used acutely). Subcutaneous implant for estrus suppression: continuous GnRH receptor stimulation → receptor downregulation and desensitization → gonadotropin suppression → anovulation. More potent than native GnRH.
Key information
GnRH agonist implant. Refrigerate. Causes initial LH/FSH surge then downregulation — understand timing in mares. Remove implant after 48 hours in mares for ovulation induction. Do not use in stallions intended for breeding (long-term suppression).
How to Give this Medication
SQ implant: insert using implanting tool (trocar/syringe) into the neck or behind the ear — use aseptic technique. Confirm implant placement. For ovulation induction: single implant; for suppression: follow product-specific protocol for removal. Store refrigerated (2–8°C); do not freeze.
If a dose is missed
This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.
Side Effects
Stallions: transient increase in sexual behavior/LH surge then prolonged testosterone suppression. Mares: prolonged interovulatory interval after implant removal; persistent diestrus. Loss of libido in breeding stallions with sustained-release implant. Injection site reactions.
Precautions
For animals
Mares: prolonged anovulation if implant not removed promptly after desired ovulation — plan removal or use appropriate protocol. Stallions: prolonged testosterone suppression with sustained-release implant — only use if suppression desired. Antibody formation with repeated use may reduce efficacy.
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. GnRH superagonist implant — hormonal drug. Avoid skin contact. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Women of childbearing age should wear gloves.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Deslorelin implant — overdose managed by veterinary staff.
Deslorelin Acetate dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DESLORELIN ACETATE 1.5 MG/ML SOLUTION FOR INJECTION 1 ML | 1.5 MG/ML | Injectable | 1 | Compound |
| DESLORELIN ACETATE 1.5 MG/ML SOLUTION FOR INJECTION 10 ML | 1.5 MG/ML | Injectable | 1 | Compound |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual – Systemic Pharmacotherapeutics of the Reproductive System (https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/systemic-pharmacotherapeutics-of-the-reproductive-system/overview-of-systemic-pharmacotherapeutics-of-the-reproductive-system-in-animals); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)