A short GHRH fragment that was once FDA-approved as Geref and is now discontinued.
Key takeaway
Sermorelin is the first 29 amino acids of growth hormone–releasing hormone, the part responsible for its activity. It stimulates the pituitary to release growth hormone.
At a glance
| FDA status | Formerly in an approved drug (discontinued) |
|---|---|
| 503A compounding | Eligible for 503A compounding (component of an approved drug) |
| Body areas | Hormones & pituitary |
| Through ScriptMates | Prescribable by licensed providers |
| Open questions | 1 noted below |
What is sermorelin?
Sermorelin is the first 29 amino acids of growth hormone–releasing hormone, the part responsible for its activity. It stimulates the pituitary to release growth hormone.
It was approved as Geref for diagnosing and treating growth hormone deficiency in children. Geref is discontinued, and FDA has determined that it was not withdrawn for safety or effectiveness reasons.
Dosage forms
Historical FDA-approved form: Geref injection. Geref is discontinued; this historical form does not establish approval of compounded preparations.
Is sermorelin FDA-approved?
Active ingredient of Geref (discontinued). FDA published a determination that Geref was not withdrawn from sale for reasons of safety or effectiveness.
Can it be prescribed through ScriptMates?
Eligible for 503A compounding (component of an approved drug). A 503A partner pharmacy lists this peptide, and it has a lawful 503A compounding pathway.
What we could not confirm
- FDA has not published guidance on whether a component of a discontinued approved drug qualifies under section 503A. We treat sermorelin as eligible because of FDA’s safety-or-effectiveness determination; the dispensing pharmacy makes the final call.
Sources
- Drugs@FDA: Geref (sermorelin acetate)
- FDA: Bulk drug substances nominated under 503A, Categories 1–3 (May 14, 2026)
Checked October 27, 2026. FDA updates these pages, so confirm before relying on them.