Generic Name

Protirelin

---

Classification

FDA Approved Indications

• Diagnosis of hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis disorders

Mechanism of Action

Protirelin is a synthetic analog of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). It stimulates the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from the anterior pituitary, which in turn stimulates the thyroid gland to produce and release thyroid hormones.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Typically administered intravenously under medical supervision, dosage varies based on testing protocols.

Pediatric: Use is limited; should be administered under specialized guidance with adjusted dosing.

Geriatric: No specific adjustments noted; caution advised due to potential comorbidities.

Renal Impairment: No specific guidelines; monitor response and side effects.

Hepatic Impairment: No specific guidelines; monitor response.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Not applicable; administered via injection.

Distribution: Rapid distribution in bloodstream.

Metabolism: Metabolized in the central nervous system and possibly by other tissues.

Excretion: Excreted primarily in urine.

Half Life: Approximately 1 to 3 minutes, reflecting rapid onset and clearance.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to TRH or related compounds

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, epilepsy, or other neurological disorders; monitor cardiovascular status during testing.

Adverse Reactions - Common

• Transient headache (Unknown)
• Nausea or flushing (Unknown)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

• Allergic reactions including rash, pruritus, or anaphylaxis (Rare)
• Cardiovascular reactions such as tachycardia, hypertension (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

• Potential interactions with drugs affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis or receptor activity.

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Patient/Family Teaching

• Report any allergic reactions or unusual symptoms immediately.
• Understand that this medication is for diagnostic purposes, not a treatment.
• Follow instructions for testing procedures carefully.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

• None specific to this drug.

Genetic Factors: Genetic variations in TRH receptors may affect response but not routinely tested.

Lab Test Interference: Can alter measurements of TSH and other thyroid function tests temporarily.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Excessive cardiovascular responses, hypersensitivity reactions, neurological disturbances.

Treatment: Supportive care; manage symptoms; no specific antidote.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture.

Stability: Stable when stored as recommended, for shelf life specified in product labeling.