What it is
Sermorelin is a short, man-made piece of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It contains the first 29 amino acids of the natural hormone, which is the part that does the work.
It prompts the pituitary gland to release growth hormone in pulses, similar to the body's natural pattern. Because it relies on the pituitary, its effect depends on how well that gland is working.
US regulatory status
The brand product Geref was once FDA-approved for children with growth hormone deficiency but was discontinued in the US (not for safety reasons). There is no FDA-approved sermorelin product on the market now; some licensed pharmacies prepare compounded versions with a prescription, and these are not FDA-reviewed for safety or effectiveness.
What the research shows
Older studies showed sermorelin could raise growth hormone levels and support growth in children with GH deficiency. Evidence for popular adult uses such as anti-aging, body composition or sleep comes mostly from small or older studies, and high-quality trials are lacking.
How it is given
Subcutaneous injection (compounded vial)
Commonly reported side effects
- Injection site pain, redness or swelling
- Flushing
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Limited safety data for long-term adult use
Questions to ask your provider
- What does the research really show about sermorelin in humans?
- Are there FDA-approved treatments for my goal that have stronger evidence?
- What are the risks of products labeled "research use only," and how would I know what is really in them?