Protirelin is no longer available in the United States.
Protirelin is a prescription medication used to help diagnose medical conditions related to the thyroid gland. This medication works by triggering the anterior pituitary gland in the brain to release a thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). The TSH then stimulates the thyroid gland. By measuring the amount of TSH in the blood after protirelin is given, the doctor can determine how well the anterior pituitary is working. Protirelin is given as an injection and may be referred to by the brand names Thyrel TRH, Thypinone or Relefact TRH. This drug is not currently available in the United States. Thyrel TRH and Thypinone were both discontinued in 2003. Relefact TRH is currently only available outside of the US, in both injectable and nasal formulations.
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