Sermorelin
Also known as: GRF 1-29, GHRH 1-29
By GLPeptideSciences Editorial Team · How we evaluate evidence · Reviewed by Dr. George S. Watson, MD, Cardiothoracic Surgeon · Updated 2026-06-02
A GHRH analog (the 1-29 fragment) with a history of approved diagnostic/clinical use, now commonly compounded as a growth hormone secretagogue.
What it is & how it works
What it is
Sermorelin is a GHRH analog — the 1-29 active fragment of growth hormone-releasing hormone. Unlike most compounds here, it has genuine clinical history and is available through compounding pharmacies with a prescription.
How it works
As a GHRH analog, sermorelin signals the pituitary to release the body’s own growth hormone in natural pulses, rather than supplying GH directly — the same upstream approach as CJC-1295, but shorter-acting.
Evidence and context
The mechanism is well established and the clinical history is real, but modern “anti-aging” use is more anecdotal than trial-backed. Because it’s compounded, product quality varies and dosing should come from a prescriber.
What it's discussed & studied for
- Growth hormone / IGF-1 support
- Age-related GH decline (discussed)
- Sleep and recovery (anecdotal)
Discussion of a use is not a claim that it works or is approved.
Research status
Has a history of clinical/diagnostic use (an earlier approved product was discontinued for commercial reasons); now largely available via compounding.
Evidence quality
Mixed. The GHRH mechanism is well established and it has real clinical history; modern anti-aging use is more anecdotal than trial-backed.
Dosing discussion
Discussed as a subcutaneous dose, often at night to align with natural GH pulses. Compounded dosing should come from a prescriber, not community sources.
Educational summary of what is discussed in the literature and community — not a dosing recommendation or medical advice.
Safety & harm reduction
Generally reported as well tolerated; injection-site reactions are the most common complaint. As a GHRH analog it stimulates natural GH rather than supplying it. Prescriptions are compounded — quality varies.
Sourcing literacy
Available via compounding pharmacies with a prescription; gray-market 'sermorelin' carries the usual identity/purity/sterility risks.
Selected literature
FAQ
How is sermorelin different from CJC-1295?
Both are GHRH analogs, but sermorelin is shorter-acting and has a longer clinical history. CJC-1295 (especially with DAC) is engineered to last much longer.
Is sermorelin a real medication?
It has a clinical history and is available via compounding pharmacies with a prescription, though an earlier branded product was discontinued.