Inclusion of a compound does not constitute endorsement. Information sourced from published research and regulatory filings.

Sermorelin

Previously Approved

GH Secretagogue · Compounded (historical innovator: Serono — Geref)

Synthetic analog of the first 29 amino acids of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH). Previously FDA-approved as Geref; withdrawn from the US market in 2008 for commercial reasons, not safety. Currently available via compounding pharmacies.

About

Mechanism

GHRH analog (GRF 1-29). Binds pituitary GHRH receptors to stimulate endogenous growth hormone release in a pulsatile, physiological pattern. Preserves the GH-IGF-1 negative feedback loop.

Half-Life

~10-20 minutes (GHRH analog, rapid clearance)

Route

subcutaneous

Frequency

Daily before bed

Clinical Dosing

200-500 mcgdaily before bed

Was FDA-approved as Geref (1997) for pediatric growth hormone deficiency diagnosis/treatment. Discontinued by manufacturer in 2008 for commercial reasons, not safety or efficacy. Currently available via compounding pharmacies only.

Dosing based on small human studies or early-phase trials. Not established by Phase 3 evidence.

Regulatory Status

FDA Category

Previously FDA-approved (Geref, 1997). Discontinued by manufacturer in 2008 for commercial reasons, not safety or efficacy.

Reclassification

stable

Status based on publicly available FDA communications. Verify at FDA.gov for authoritative guidance.

View full regulatory timeline →

Titration Protocols

Community Titration

Source: Geref prescribing information (historical); Walker 2006 review

Dose	Duration	Draw (2 mg vial in 2mL)	Notes
200 mcg	2 weeks	0.20 mL (20 units)	Initial dose at bedtime, subcutaneous
300 mcg	Maintenance	0.30 mL (30 units)	Typical maintenance range (200-500 mcg nightly)

Available Vial Sizes

2 mg

2 mg vial

5 mg

5 mg vial

9 mg

9 mg vial

15 mg

15 mg vial

Citations

[1]Sermorelin: a better approach to management of adult-onset growth hormone insufficiency?. Clinical Endocrinology, 65(4), 413-423. Link(Reviewed: 2026-04-14)