Vantas

Vantas (histrelin acetate) is a sterile, non-biodegradable, diffusion-controlled hydrogel polymer reservoir containing histrelin, a synthetic decapeptide analogue of naturally occurring gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Developed by Endo Pharmaceuticals, it is indicated for the palliative treatment of advanced prostate cancer. The implant is designed for subcutaneous insertion and provides continuous delivery of histrelin over a 12-month period. As a GnRH receptor agonist, histrelin initially stimulates the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), causing a transient increase in testosterone. However, chronic administration leads to the downregulation of GnRH receptors and desensitization of pituitary gonadotropes, ultimately suppressing LH and FSH secretion and reducing serum testosterone to castrate levels. This hormonal suppression inhibits the growth of androgen-sensitive prostate cancer cells. Although highly effective, Endo Pharmaceuticals discontinued the marketing of Vantas in the United States around 2021.

Brand names

Vantas

Other names

histrelin acetatehistrelin