Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

thyrotropin-releasing hormone

Thyrotropin-releasing hormone stimulates the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from the anterior pituitary gland.

Thyrotropin-releasing hormone stimulates the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from the anterior pituitary gland. Used for Hypothyroidism due to insufficient TSH production, Diagnostic testing of pituitary function.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

TRH acts on the thyrotroph cells in the anterior pituitary gland by binding to its G-protein coupled receptors, leading to increased intracellular calcium levels and subsequent secretion of TSH, which then regulates thyroid hormone production.

Approved indications

• Hypothyroidism due to insufficient TSH production
• Diagnostic testing of pituitary function

Common side effects

• Nausea
• Headache

Key clinical trials

• Extra Luteinizing Hormone Improve Embryo Quality in IVF Patients With Low LH During Long GnRH-Agonist Treatment (NA)
• Pregnancy and Neonatal Follow-up of Ongoing Pregnancies Established in Clinical Trial 38833 (P05783)
• To Investigate Efficacy and Safety of a Single Injection of Org 36286 for Ovarian Stimulation Using Daily Recombinant FSH as Reference (Ensure)(P05690/MK-8962-001) (PHASE3)
• Study of Resistance to Thyroid Hormone After Long-term Exposure in People With Thyroid Cancer (PHASE1)
• Follicle Size and Oocyte Development (NA)
• Study to Determine the Dose, the Safety and Effectiveness of a New Drug, Modified Release rhTSH, in Patients With Multinodular Goiter (PHASE2)
• Mechanistic Study of Subclinical Hypothyroidism In the Elderly (NA)
• A Study to Assess the Pharmacokinetics and the Ability for Pediatric Participants With Type 2 Diabetes to Swallow MK-0431A XR Tablets (MK-0431A-296) (PHASE1)

Primary sources

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