Somatorelin
Also known as: Geref, GRF 1-44, hGHRH (1-44)-NH2, Somatocrinin, Somatorelin acetate
Source Somatorelin at Peptiology
Save 10% with code PEPTI-BOSSRABBIT-10
Tapping Shop Now & Save 10% copies your 10% off code PEPTI-BOSSRABBIT-10 to your clipboard. Paste it at the Peptiology checkout to claim the discount.
Summary
Somatorelin (also known as Geref) is a synthetic 44-amino acid peptide identical to endogenous human growth hormone-releasing hormone (hGHRH 1-44-NH2). It was used diagnostically to evaluate GH secretory capacity and investigationally to stimulate GH release in GH-deficient states. It was approved in some jurisdictions but later withdrawn from markets.
Mechanism of Action
Binds to GHRH receptors on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary, stimulating the synthesis and pulsatile release of endogenous growth hormone (GH).
Routes of Administration
Goals & Uses
- Short stature treatmentPediatric EndocrinologyModerate
- Stimulation of endogenous GH secretionEndocrineModerate
- Treatment of growth hormone deficiency in childrenEndocrine/GrowthModerate
- Diagnosis of GH deficiencyDiagnosticHigh
Contraindications
- Hypothalamic GHRH-secreting tumorOncologicHigh
- Active intracranial neoplasmOncologicHigh
- Hypersensitivity to somatorelin or excipientsAllergy/ImmunologicHigh
Adverse Effects
- Injection site reactionsLocalCommon
- HeadacheNeurologicUncommonPain in the head or upper neck
- Antibody FormationImmunologicalUncommon
- Hypersensitivity/allergic reactionImmunologicalRare
- FlushingVascularCommonWarmth and redness of the skin
- NauseaGastrointestinalUncommonFeeling of sickness or urge to vomit
Drug Interactions
- InsulinLowMay increase risk of low blood sugar
- GlucocorticoidsModerate
- Thyroid hormonesModerate
- Somatostatin analogs (e.g., octreotide)High
Population Constraints
- PregnancyReproductive SafetyRelative
- Neonates/InfantsPediatricRelative
- ObesityMetabolicRelative
Regulatory Status
- European UnionWithdrawnNo longer actively marketed in the EU.
- United StatesWithdrawnApproved: Diagnostic evaluation of pituitary GH secretory capacity, Long-term treatment of GH deficiency in children (subcutaneous)Geref was approved by the FDA and later voluntarily withdrawn from the US market by the manufacturer.
Geref (somatorelin) was approved by the FDA but subsequently withdrawn from the US market. It was used for diagnostic testing of GH deficiency and for short stature indications in children.
Evidence & Sources
No sources recorded yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Somatorelin?
Somatorelin (also known as Geref) is a synthetic 44-amino acid peptide identical to endogenous human growth hormone-releasing hormone (hGHRH 1-44-NH2). It was used diagnostically to evaluate GH secretory capacity and investigationally to stimulate GH release in GH-deficient states. It was approved in some jurisdictions but later withdrawn from markets.
What is Somatorelin used for?
Somatorelin is educationally associated with: Short stature treatment, Stimulation of endogenous GH secretion, Treatment of growth hormone deficiency in children, Diagnosis of GH deficiency. Educational only — not medical advice.
How is Somatorelin administered?
Recorded routes of administration: Intravenous, Subcutaneous.
What are the potential side effects of Somatorelin?
Reported adverse effects include: Injection site reactions, Headache, Antibody Formation, Hypersensitivity/allergic reaction, Flushing, Nausea. This list is not exhaustive — consult a qualified clinician.
Who should avoid Somatorelin?
Recorded contraindications: Hypothalamic GHRH-secreting tumor, Active intracranial neoplasm, Hypersensitivity to somatorelin or excipients. Consult a qualified clinician before use.