Source comparison
Men 45-55 Andropause Sermorelin Protocol Comparison
Mechanism GHRH analogue. Stimulates endogenous pulsatile GH release GHRH analogue. Higher dose compensates for receptor density decline Exogenous recombinant human growth hormone. Bypasses pituitary Sermorelin preserves natural feedback loops; synthetic GH sup
This comparison does not assign a generated winner or score.
- Mechanism
- GHRH analogue. Stimulates endogenous pulsatile GH release
- GHRH analogue. Higher dose compensates for receptor density decline
- Exogenous recombinant human growth hormone. Bypasses pituitary
- Sermorelin preserves natural feedback loops; synthetic GH suppresses endogenous production
- Injection Frequency
- 5–7 nights/week before bed
- Daily (morning or split AM/PM)
- Sermorelin timing aligns with nocturnal GH pulse; synthetic GH requires daytime dosing
- IGF-1 Response Timeline
- 4–8 weeks to measurable IGF-1 increase (15–25% above baseline)
- 6–10 weeks to measurable IGF-1 increase (20–30% above baseline)
- 2–4 weeks to measurable IGF-1 increase (40–60% above baseline)
- Sermorelin produces gradual restoration; synthetic GH produces rapid supraphysiological levels
- Axis Suppression Risk
- None. Preserves HPG axis feedback
- High. Suppresses endogenous GH production within 2–4 weeks
- Sermorelin can be discontinued without taper; synthetic GH requires gradual withdrawal
- Cost (Monthly)
- $180–$280 (compounded)
- $240–$360 (compounded)
- $600–$1,200 (pharmacy-grade)
- Sermorelin is 60–75% less expensive; cost scales with dose
- Bottom Line
- Appropriate for men 45–55 with mild-moderate GH insufficiency; may require dose escalation after initial trial
- Standard protocol for this demographic when adjusted for age-related receptor changes; most men 45–55 require this range
- Reserved for documented GH deficiency (IGF-1 <100ng/mL); not appropriate for optimization protocols
- For men 45–55 addressing andropause-related decline, sermorelin 400–500mcg is the evidence-based starting point. Not 200–300mcg