Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs: update on new findings.

Clinical trials are under way to investigate the optimal use of nafarelin. In one series of studies, the effect of nasal mucosal inflammation and the concomitant use of nasal decongestants on the nasal absorption of nafarelin was evaluated in women with perennial rhinitis. Neither rhinitis nor concomitant therapy with a long-acting nasal decongestant substantially affected the nasal absorption of nafarelin. Other clinical studies are investigating strategies for second treatment of endometriosis or to improve the safety profile of nafarelin. In one trial, a second 3-month treatment course with nafarelin in patients with recurrent symptoms of endometriosis provided substantial pain relief. In another trial, preliminary information indicates that the addition of norethindrone to nafarelin in patients with endometriosis attenuates bone density changes and menopausal symptoms associated with nafarelin treatment.