Sermorelin
aka GHRH (1-29)
Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog
Half-life
~10–20 minutes
How long it stays active in your body
Dosing
Nightly fasted, 90+ min post-meal
How often you take a dose
Route
SubQ
How it goes into the body
Status
Compounded
Available via licensed compounding pharmacies
What it is
The first 29 amino acids of natural GHRH — the body's own growth hormone signal. Stimulates the pituitary to release GH in physiologic pulses. The original GH secretagogue; gentler and budget-friendly compared to CJC-1295.
How it works
Binds GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotrophs, prompting natural GH release. Preserves negative feedback loops (unlike exogenous HGH). Shorter half-life than CJC-1295 — lower amplitude pulses but more physiologic.
What the research says
FDA-approved for pediatric GH deficiency (discontinued by manufacturer in 2008 for business reasons, not safety). Decades of compounding pharmacy use in adult anti-aging. Strong safety record; gentler effect than CJC-1295.
Sources: PubMed: Sermorelin · NIH: GHRH analogs
Common dosing ranges
- Range
- 200–300 mcg (men 300 / women 200)
- Frequency
- Nightly fasted, 90+ min post-meal
- Duration
- 3–6 month cycles, 1 month off
Sources: PubMed
Administration
Side effects
Common
- Injection site redness
- Mild flushing
- Occasional headache
Serious / theoretical
- Avoid in active malignancy
- Avoid in pregnancy
Sources: PubMed
Notes
JD Denham, XSculpt, and Froese consider Sermorelin a clean budget option. Hunter Williams calls it "obsolete" vs CJC-1295 no-DAC for performance — they're both right depending on goal. Sex-specific dosing: 300 mcg men, 200 mcg women.