Sermorelin
Also known as: Geref, GRF 1-29
Key Facts: Sermorelin
- Category
- Growth Hormone
- FDA Status
- Not FDA Approved
- Clinical Status
- Previously FDA Approved (discontinued) - Off-label use continues
- Administration
- Subcutaneous injection at bedtime
- Typical Dose
- 200-500 mcg before bed
- Frequency
- Once daily, typically before bed
- Evidence Level
- Animal Studies
- Duration
- 3-6 months typical
What to Expect
A truncated analog of natural GHRH containing the first 29 amino acids. Previously FDA-approved for pediatric GH deficiency, now used off-label for adult hormone optimization.
Mechanism of Action
Sermorelin is bioidentical to the active portion of endogenous GHRH. It stimulates the pituitary's natural production and release of growth hormone, maintaining normal feedback mechanisms and pulsatile GH release patterns.
Research Summary
Extensive clinical research from FDA approval process. Studies demonstrate restoration of youthful GH levels, improved sleep quality, increased lean body mass, and enhanced recovery. Generally preserves natural GH axis better than exogenous GH.
Dosing Information
Note: Animal study doses may not translate directly to humans.
Typical Dosingⓘ
Community experience
200-500 mcg before bed
100-500 mcg daily
Once daily, typically before bed
Take on empty stomach at least 2 hours after last meal. Bedtime dosing aligns with natural GH pulse during sleep.
Research Dosingⓘ
Scientific studies
Doses from clinical practice
Doses from Studies
100-500 mcg before bed
200-300 mcg typical
Duration
3-6 months typical
Administration
Subcutaneous injection at bedtime
Timing & Administration
Best Time to Take
Before bed (fasted)
Once daily before bed
Food Recommendation
Take on empty stomach
Why This Timing?
Sermorelin mimics natural GHRH and works best when taken before sleep to enhance natural nighttime GH release.
Possible Side Effects
Not everyone experiences these effects. Individual responses vary based on dosage, duration, and personal factors.
- ●Facial flushing (most common)
- ●Injection site reactions
- ●Headache
- ●Nausea
- ●Dizziness
- ●Joint pain
- ●Water retention
- ●Elevated IGF-1 levels
- ●Allergic reactions (rare)
References
Related Peptides
Peptides commonly compared with Sermorelin or used in similar applications.
Ipamorelin
Clinical TrialsA selective growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates GH release without significantly affecting cortisol or prolactin. Considered one of the safest GHRPs.
Growth HormoneMK-677
Clinical TrialsAn orally active growth hormone secretagogue that mimics ghrelin. Not a peptide technically, but frequently discussed alongside GH peptides due to similar effects.
Growth HormoneCJC-1295
Clinical TrialsA synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) that stimulates GH release from the pituitary. Often combined with a GHRP like Ipamorelin for synergistic effects.
Growth HormoneTesamorelin
FDAAn FDA-approved GHRH analog used to reduce excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy. One of the few peptides with FDA approval.
Growth HormoneGHRP-6
Clinical TrialsOne of the first synthetic GH secretagogues developed. Strongly stimulates GH release and significantly increases appetite through ghrelin receptor activation.
Growth HormoneGHRP-2
Clinical TrialsA synthetic hexapeptide that potently stimulates GH release. More potent than GHRP-6 with less appetite stimulation, but still elevates cortisol and prolactin.
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Educational Information Only
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers before making any decisions about peptides or other substances. The protocols listed reflect doses observed in research studies, not recommendations.