Comparison
Buserelin vs. Degarelix
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
57982-77-1
214766-78-6
Molecular weight
1239.42 g/mol
1632.3 g/mol
Half-life
no data
1320 h
Sequence
no data
Ac-D-2Nal-D-4Cpa-D-3Pal-Ser-4Aph(Hor)-D-4Aph(Cbm)-Leu-Ilys-Pro-D-Ala-NH2Mechanism of action
Buserelin
Buserelin is a potent GnRH agonist: after an initial stimulatory surge ('flare'), continuous receptor occupancy causes downregulation and thereby suppression of LH, FSH and the downstream sex hormones.
Degarelix
Degarelix is a competitive GnRH receptor antagonist. It binds reversibly and immediately to the pituitary GnRH receptors and blocks their activation. This rapidly suppresses the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which in turn lowers testosterone production in the testes. Unlike GnRH agonists (e.g., leuprorelin), which first cause a transient stimulation with a testosterone surge (flare), this direct antagonism lacks the initial stimulation phase, so testosterone declines without a preceding rise. This mechanism underlies the literature-described use in hormone-dependent prostate cancer.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
0
4
of which in humans
0
4
Effects recorded
2
4
Open conflicts
0
1
Documented adverse events
1
2
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Buserelin and Degarelix?
- Buserelin is classified as "Research other", while Degarelix is classified as "Research other". Buserelin: Buserelin is a synthetic GnRH agonist (including as a nasal spray). It is used in endometriosis, hormone-dependent prostate cancer and assisted reproduction; approved in Europe (Suprefact), not in the US. Degarelix: Degarelix (trade name Firmagon) is a synthetic decapeptide and a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor antagonist. Unlike GnRH agonists, it blocks the receptor directly and does not trigger an initial testosterone surge (flare). It is an approved prescription medicine for the treatment of advanced, hormone-dependent prostate cancer. This page neutrally summarizes the evidence base and legal status and is not a usage or dosing recommendation. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Buserelin or Degarelix?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Buserelin and "Human RCT" for Degarelix. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Buserelin and Degarelix in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Buserelin — Prescription, Degarelix — Prescription. United States: Buserelin — Unapproved, Degarelix — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.