Ipamorelin vs Sermorelin
Ipamorelin Acetate
A selective growth hormone secretagogue and ghrelin receptor agonist that stimulates pulsatile GH release with minimal effect on cortisol or prolactin.
Sermorelin (GHRH 1-29 analogue)
A GHRH fragment historically approved as a diagnostic and pediatric GH agent, now used in compounded anti-aging research.
| Attribute | Ipamorelin | Sermorelin |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Growth Hormone | Growth Hormone |
| FDA status | Not FDA-approved | Previously FDA-approved (Geref, discontinued); available compounded |
| Half-life | ~2 hours | ~10-20 minutes |
| Molecular weight | 711.85 Da | 3,357.9 Da |
| Mechanism | Agonizes the ghrelin/GH secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a) on the pituitary, stimulating pulsatile growth hormone secretion. | Activates pituitary GHRH receptors to stimulate physiological growth hormone release. |
| Legal status (US) | Not approved; research use only | Prior approval discontinued; available via compounding pharmacies |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Ipamorelin and Sermorelin?
Ipamorelin: A selective growth hormone secretagogue and ghrelin receptor agonist that stimulates pulsatile GH release with minimal effect on cortisol or prolactin. Sermorelin: A GHRH fragment historically approved as a diagnostic and pediatric GH agent, now used in compounded anti-aging research.
Which has stronger research evidence, Ipamorelin or Sermorelin?
Ipamorelin is rated Moderate and Sermorelin is rated Moderate for evidence level in this database. Evidence level reflects the quality of published research, not a recommendation.
Are Ipamorelin and Sermorelin FDA-approved?
Ipamorelin: Not FDA-approved. Sermorelin: Previously FDA-approved (Geref, discontinued); available compounded.
Evidence levels reflect the quality of published research, not a recommendation. This comparison is educational and is not medical advice.