Source comparison
HGH vs. Sermorelin | Comprehensive Comparison
hGH and sermorelin have both been used for therapy in children with short stature. Both have also been studied for their effects on various metabolic parameters in adults. Below, we outline the key similarities and differences that influence the research poten
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- hGH and sermorelin have both been used for therapy in children with short stature. Both have also been studied for their effects on various metabolic parameters in adults.
- Below, we outline the key similarities and differences that influence the research potential, uses, and safety of both hGH replacement therapy and sermorelin:
- Administration: Both hGH and sermorelin are highly effective when applied via subcutaneous injection. They should be administered in the evening, as this helps mimic native GH release and reduces certain side effects. In addition, sermorelin can be applied twice daily due to its short half-life (~10mins). In such scenarios, the first injection is typically applied in the early morning and the second in the evening. According to available data, sermorelin has been applied in doses ranging between 1-2mg/daily for up to 16 weeks [10, 14, 15].
- Mechanism of action: hGH replacement therapy delivers exogenous growth hormone and increases serum GH even in subjects with total pituitary gland dysfunction. By contrast, sermorelin works by stimulating GH synthesis in the pituitary gland, and its effectiveness depends on the gland's functionality.
- Half-life: Sermorelin has a half-life of about 10 minutes, sufficient to stimulate a peak in natural GH synthesis. Studies suggest that the increased GH synthesis lasts about two hours after an injection [16]. By comparison, hGH has a half-life of 3.4hrs and serum GH levels can remain elevated for up to 12 hours after administration [17].
- Changes in serum GH levels: hGH-related increases in serum GH depend solely on the dose applied, and high doses can lead to supraphysiological increases, thereby increasing the risk of side effects. By contrast, sermorelin stimulates natural GH synthesis that remains within physiological limits.
- Changes in serum IGF-1 levels: Both hGH replacement therapy and sermorelin have been shown to induce a significant increase in insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which is the primary anabolic mediator of growth hormone [14, 18].
- Below, we dig deeper into the effects of both hGH and sermorelin, including the latest clinical data on each benefit.