Sermorelin (S2)

Sermorelin Acetate (GHRH 1-29)

An FDA-approved GHRH analog used for GH deficiency diagnosis and treatment, with a favorable safety profile.

Prohibited in competition. This compound is on the WADA Prohibited List (class [S0 / S2.3 / S2]), banned at all times, both in and out of competition. Athletes subject to WADA or USADA testing should not use it.

100% 50% · t½ Time → Serum level
Molecular Weight 3357.9 Da
Half-Life 10–20 minutes
Typical Dose 200–500 mcg
Cycle Length 3–6 months

Description

Sermorelin (GHRH 1-29 NH2) is a synthetic analog of the first 29 amino acids of endogenous growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It was FDA-approved for the diagnosis of GH deficiency in children and is widely used off-label for adult GH optimization. Sermorelin is the shortest fully active fragment of GHRH, retaining the complete biological activity of the 44-amino acid native hormone. Its relatively short half-life (10–20 minutes) results in more physiological GH pulsatility compared to exogenous recombinant HGH, which produces supraphysiological and non-pulsatile GH levels. By working through the pituitary’s natural regulatory mechanisms (including somatostatin feedback), sermorelin cannot produce the excessive GH levels associated with exogenous HGH, making it a safer approach to GH optimization. It is often combined with Ipamorelin for synergistic GH release.

Key Characteristics

Molecular Formula

C149H246N44O42S

Molecular Weight

3357.9 Da

Half-Life

10–20 minutes

Administration Routes

Subcutaneous injection

Typical Dose

200–500 mcg

Frequency

Daily (bedtime)

Investigated Benefits

* Benefits based on preclinical/animal research unless otherwise noted.

Mechanism of Action

“An FDA-approved GHRH analog used for GH deficiency diagnosis and treatment, with a favorable safety profile.”

Sermorelin binds to the GHRH receptor (GHRHR) on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary — a Gs-coupled GPCR. GHRHR activation elevates cAMP via adenylyl cyclase, which activates PKA and triggers GH gene transcription and pulsatile GH secretion. The pituitary’s natural somatostatin feedback mechanism remains intact with sermorelin, preventing excessive GH accumulation and maintaining physiological pulsatility. Sermorelin also stimulates pituitary cell proliferation and GH synthesis over time, potentially restoring pituitary GH reserve that has declined with age. Unlike exogenous HGH, sermorelin-stimulated GH release is subject to normal hypothalamic regulation, including suppression by hyperglycemia and stimulation by sleep and exercise, preserving the natural GH secretory pattern.

Administration Routes

Subcutaneous injection

Key Characteristics

Typical Dose

200–500 mcg

Frequency

Daily (bedtime)

Cycle Length

3–6 months

Administration

Subcutaneous injection

Protocol Notes

Bedtime administration maximizes the natural GH pulse during sleep. Administer on an empty stomach. Often combined with Ipamorelin.

Reconstitution Guide

Add 3 mL bacteriostatic water to 9 mg vial → 3 mg/mL For 300 mcg dose: draw 0.1 mL (10 units on U-100 syringe)

Storage Information

Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture.

Quality & Sourcing Standards

When sourcing Sermorelin for research purposes, the following quality benchmarks should be verified before use.

Purity:

>98% (verified by HPLC)

Certificate of Analysis (COA):

Must be provided by supplier

Endotoxin Testing:

<0.1 EU/mg (prevents bacterial contamination)

GMP Compliance:

Manufactured in cGMP-certified facility

Third-Party Testing:

Independent lab verification preferred

Storage Information

Lyophilized: refrigerate. Reconstituted: refrigerate and use within 30 days.

FDA Disclaimer

The statements made within this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. The products and information provided are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This website is intended for educational and research purposes only. Many peptides described on this site are not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use and are classified as research chemicals. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice.

Research Highlights

1

FDA-approved for pediatric GH deficiency diagnosis

2

Multiple studies demonstrate GH and IGF-1 elevation

3

Improved body composition in adult GH deficiency studies

Evidence Level

Multiple animal studies and/or early human trials. Reasonable confidence in mechanism, but human data is limited.

Compatible Peptides

Peptides commonly used alongside Sermorelin for synergistic effects.

BPC-157

A synthetic pentadecapeptide derived from gastric juice with extraordinary tissue healing properties across multiple organ systems.

Ipamorelin

The most selective GHRP available, stimulating GH release with minimal cortisol or prolactin elevation.

Quick Reference

Category

Hormone & GH

Status

Research Only
 

Dose

200–500 mcg

Frequency

Daily (bedtime)

Cycle

3–6 months