nafarelin acetate at a glance
Medicine class
GnRH agonist
Licensed uses
Endometriosis and controlled ovarian stimulation before IVF
Administration
Metered nasal spray; correct pump preparation and cleaning are important
Contraception
Use a non-hormonal barrier method when pregnancy is not intended
What is nafarelin acetate used for?
Licensed uses include:
Hormonal management of endometriosis, including reducing pain and endometriotic lesions.
Use in controlled ovarian stimulation programmes before IVF under an infertility specialist's supervision.
How does nafarelin acetate work?
Nafarelin initially stimulates the pituitary gland but, with continued use, makes it less responsive to GnRH. This reduces LH and FSH secretion and lowers ovarian oestrogen production.
How to take nafarelin acetate
Use only through the nose and follow the prescriber's and pack leaflet instructions.
Prime each new bottle before its first use only.
Gently clear the nose, aim towards the back and outer side of the nostril, and breathe in gently while operating the pump.
Clean the spray tip with warm water before and after use. Do not use a pointed object or remove the pump.
Replace the safety clip and dust cap after use and keep the bottle upright.
If you sneeze while administering the spray, repeat that administration.
It may be used with or without food.
nafarelin acetate side effects
Common or expected effects
- Hot flushes, headache and mood changes
- Nasal irritation or inflammation
- Vaginal dryness and reduced libido
- Weight change, acne or oily skin
- Muscle pain, fluid retention or sleep difficulty
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Reduced bone density
Get urgent medical advice
- Breathlessness, chest pain, hives, rash or swelling suggesting hypersensitivity
- Abdominal or pelvic pain, bloating, reduced urine, calf pain, rapid weight gain or breathing difficulty suggesting ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
- New or worsening depression, which can be severe
nafarelin acetate in pregnancy
Nafarelin acetate must not be used during pregnancy or suspected pregnancy. Pregnancy should be excluded before treatment. If pregnancy occurs, stop using it and contact the prescriber. Outside a planned fertility programme, use non-hormonal barrier contraception because missed sprays may permit ovulation.
nafarelin acetate while breastfeeding
Nafarelin acetate is contraindicated during breastfeeding because transfer into human milk and effects on the breastfed child are unknown. Discuss an alternative feeding or treatment plan with the specialist.
nafarelin acetate interactions
Few conventional pharmacokinetic interactions are expected, but nasal products and contraception require attention.
Nasal decongestants, including oxymetazoline
Using a decongestant shortly before nafarelin can substantially reduce nasal absorption. Ask a pharmacist or prescriber about suitable timing or alternatives.
Hormonal contraceptives
These are generally stopped when nafarelin is used; a non-hormonal barrier method is advised when pregnancy is not intended.
Common questions about nafarelin acetate
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Can nafarelin acetate cure endometriosis?
No. It can reduce pain and lesions while treatment is active, but endometriosis currently has no established cure.
What if I sneeze after using the spray?
Repeat the administration if sneezing occurs during or immediately after spraying, as absorption may be reduced.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.