Article Summary
Growth hormone (GH) plays a crucial role in supporting various physiological functions, including metabolism, muscle maintenance, and recovery. However, natural GH levels decline with age, potentially impacting overall health. Sermorelin, a growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog, may offer a way to support the body’s natural GH production by stimulating the pituitary gland. This article explores how Sermorelin therapy works, potential benefits, and key considerations for prescribers looking to optimize treatment strategies for their patients.
Introduction
Growth hormone (GH) is essential for numerous biological functions, including muscle growth, tissue repair, metabolism, and overall cellular health. However, GH production naturally declines with age, a process that may contribute to changes in body composition, reduced energy levels, and slower recovery times1. As a result, researchers have explored different ways to support GH levels, one of which is the use of Sermorelin, a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). Sermorelin therapy works by potentially stimulating the pituitary gland to release GH, thereby supporting the body’s natural hormonal rhythms.2
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How Sermorelin May Support Growth Hormone Production
Sermorelin is a GHRH analog that binds to specific receptors in the anterior pituitary gland, stimulating GH release in a pulsatile manner. This pulsatile release mirrors the body’s natural GH secretion patterns, which occur primarily during sleep and in response to metabolic needs.2, 3
Because Sermorelin encourages endogenous GH production rather than directly supplying exogenous GH, it may allow for a more controlled hormonal balance4. This mechanism potentially helps avoid some of the challenges associated with synthetic GH administration.
Potential Benefits of Sermorelin Therapy
Although individual responses to Sermorelin therapy may vary, research suggests that supporting natural GH production may potentially provide physiological benefits, including:
- Muscle Maintenance and Recovery: GH plays a key role in muscle protein synthesis and repair, which could potentially be relevant for patients experiencing muscle loss5.
- Sleep Quality Support: GH secretion is closely linked to deep sleep cycles, and studies suggest that GHRH analogs like Sermorelin could possibly help promote sleep-associated GH release6.
- Metabolic Function: GH is involved in lipid metabolism, and some evidence indicates that GH support therapies may play a role in regulating fat metabolism7, 8.
While the potential benefits are promising, it is important for prescribers to evaluate each patient’s individual needs and consider comprehensive approaches to care.
Considerations for Prescribers
Prescribers should assess whether Sermorelin therapy aligns with a patient’s specific health goals and medical history. Factors such as baseline hormone levels, metabolic health, and overall endocrine function are encouraged to be taken into account when determining an appropriate treatment approach.
Empower offers two Sermorelin formulations to accommodate patient and provider preferences:
- Sermorelin Acetate Injection (available in 6 mg, 9 mg, and 15 mg strengths)
- Sermorelin Acetate ODT (orally disintegrating tablet), providing an alternative to injections for patients who prefer a non-injectable option
Both formulations allow for individualized treatment approaches. As with any medication, prescribers should discuss with their patients the potential benefits and administration preferences when determining the best option for therapy.
Conclusion
Sermorelin therapy represents a potential alternative for patients looking to support their natural GH production. By working with experienced healthcare providers, patients may explore whether this therapy aligns with their individual treatment goals. As with any hormone-related treatment, ongoing monitoring and a personalized approach are key factors in optimizing outcomes.
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- Garcia JM, Merriam GR, Kargi AY. Growth Hormone in Aging. [Updated 2019 Oct 7]. In: Feingold KR, Anawalt B, Blackman MR, et al., editors. Endotext [Internet]. South Dartmouth (MA): MDText.com, Inc.; 2000-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279163/
- Walker RF. Sermorelin: a better approach to management of adult-onset growth hormone insufficiency? Clin Interv Aging. 2006;1(4):307-8. doi: 10.2147/ciia.2006.1.4.307. PMID: 18046908; PMCID: PMC2699646.
- Danowitz M, Grimberg A. Clinical Indications for Growth Hormone Therapy. Adv Pediatr. 2022 Aug;69(1):203-217. doi: 10.1016/j.yapd.2022.03.005. Epub 2022 Jun 17. PMID: 35985710; PMCID: PMC9754707.
- Sigalos JT, Pastuszak AW. The Safety and Efficacy of Growth Hormone Secretagogues. Sex Med Rev. 2018 Jan;6(1):45-53. doi: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2017.02.004. Epub 2017 Apr 8. PMID: 28400207; PMCID: PMC5632578.
- Fryburg DA, Louard RJ, Gerow KE, Gelfand RA, Barrett EJ. Growth hormone stimulates skeletal muscle protein synthesis and antagonizes insulin’s antiproteolytic action in humans. Diabetes. 1992 Apr;41(4):424-9. doi: 10.2337/diab.41.4.424. PMID: 1607069.
- Vitiello MV, Schwartz RS, Moe KE, Mazzoni G, Merriam GR. Treating age-related changes in somatotrophic hormones, sleep, and cognition. Dialogues Clin Neurosci. 2001 Sep;3(3):229-36. doi: 10.31887/DCNS.2001.3.3/mvvitiello. PMID: 22034239; PMCID: PMC3181657.
- Møller N, Gjedsted J, Gormsen L, Fuglsang J, Djurhuus C. Effects of growth hormone on lipid metabolism in humans. Growth Horm IGF Res. 2003 Aug;13 Suppl A:S18-21. doi: 10.1016/s1096-6374(03)00048-0. PMID: 12914720.
- Díez JJ, Sangiao-Alvarellos S, Cordido Treatment with Growth Hormone for Adults with Growth Hormone Deficiency Syndrome: Benefits and Risks. Int J Mol Sci. 2018 Mar 17;19(3):893. doi: 10.3390/ijms19030893. PMID: 29562611; PMCID: PMC5877754.
