Discontinued Growth Hormone Axis

Sermorelin

also known as: Geref, GHRH(1-29), GRF(1-29), Sermorelin acetate

The N-terminal 29 amino acids of native GHRH — a former FDA-approved diagnostic and pediatric GH-deficiency therapy, now widely compounded for adult anti-aging protocols.

A 29-amino-acid peptide corresponding to the biologically active N-terminal fragment of growth hormone-releasing hormone, formerly marketed as Geref for pediatric GH deficiency and as a diagnostic agent.

Mechanism of action

GHRH receptor agonist on anterior pituitary somatotrophs. Preserves the natural pulsatile pattern of GH release because pituitary somatostatin tone is intact — an advantage over exogenous GH in that it respects native feedback loops. Rapid DPP-IV cleavage limits each pulse, which is why community "stacks" often combine it with a GHRP to increase pulse amplitude.

Primary uses

Pediatric growth hormone deficiency (historical FDA indication)
GH-axis diagnostic testing (historical)
Adult GH-optimization protocols (current compounded/off-label use)

Typical dosing

200–500 mcg once or twice daily (subcutaneous)

Typical adult compounded dose is 200–300 mcg at bedtime. Pediatric historical dose was weight-based (up to 30 mcg/kg/day).

Regulatory status

Originally FDA-approved as Geref (EMD Serono) for pediatric GH deficiency and as a diagnostic for GH-axis evaluation. Manufacturer voluntarily withdrew Geref from the US market in 2008 for commercial reasons, not safety. Now distributed through compounding pharmacies for off-label adult use.

References

[fda-pi] Geref (sermorelin acetate) Prescribing Information. EMD Serono. (Withdrawn 2008.)
[review] Walker RF. "Sermorelin: A better approach to management of adult-onset growth hormone insufficiency?" Clin Interv Aging, 2006;1:307-308.
[pubmed] Prakash A, Goa KL. "Sermorelin: a review of its use in the diagnosis and treatment of children with idiopathic growth hormone deficiency." BioDrugs, 1999;12:139-157.

Related peptides

CJC-1295

A long-acting GHRH analog engineered with a DAC linker that binds serum albumin, extending half-life from minutes to approximately 8 days.

Mod GRF 1-29

A short-acting GHRH analog — chemically identical to CJC-1295 but without the DAC albumin-binding linker — producing discrete GH pulses rather than sustained elevation.

Ipamorelin

A selective ghrelin receptor agonist that stimulates GH release without the cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH spike seen with older GHRPs like GHRP-6.

Tesamorelin

An FDA-approved GHRH analog for reducing excess visceral fat in HIV-associated lipodystrophy.

Disclaimer

This entry is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dosing information reflects published regulatory or research data and is not a recommendation. Many compounds described here are not approved for human use in the United States. Consult a licensed medical professional before considering any peptide therapy.