rLH

rLH stands for recombinant luteinizing hormone, a pharmaceutical form of the gonadotropin LH produced by recombinant DNA technology. It is manufactured in mammalian cells, most commonly Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, resulting in a glycoprotein hormone that is structurally similar to endogenous LH. The drug is administered by subcutaneous injection and has a biological activity that binds LH receptors in target tissues.

In human females, LH acts on thecal cells to stimulate androgen production, which is aromatized in granulosa cells under FSH to estrogen; LH also supports luteal function after ovulation. In assisted reproduction, rLH is used as an adjunct to FSH during controlled ovarian stimulation in patients with LH deficiency or inadequate endogenous LH activity. It is not typically used as the trigger for ovulation; human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is used instead for final oocyte maturation.

In men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, rLH with rFSH can stimulate testosterone production and spermatogenesis.

Side effects are generally similar to other gonadotropins and may include injection-site reactions, headaches, nausea, and edema; risks include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and, in the context of ovarian stimulation, multiple pregnancy. Therapy requires monitoring by a clinician with ultrasound and hormone assays.

Brand-name lutropin alfa is Luveris; several biosimilars are available in different regions.