Library · Brain & nerves · Diagnostic agent for Growth Hormone Deficiency; its antagonists are under investigation for oncological applications.
Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH)
Somatocrinin, Somatoliberin, Growth Hormone-Releasing Factor (GRF), GHRF
Hypothalamic peptide controlling growth hormone synthesis and release, mainly used diagnostically (GHRH-arginine test) for GH deficiency. Approved analogs like tesamorelin serve specific therapies, while recent research (2020–2025) focuses on GHRH receptor involvement in cancer growth, making GHRH antagonists an oncology target.
Research score 90/100. Reference only, not a dose.
- Growth Hormone Release
- Anti-aging
- Muscle Growth
- Sleep Improvement
- Hormone Regulation
- US status
- Research Chemical
- Approval
- Withdrawn from Market
- Evidence
- Endogenous hormone regulating GH secretion. Analogs (Tesamorelin) are FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Diagnostic agent for GH deficiency.
- Research score
- 90 / 100
- Indication
- Growth Hormone Deficiency
- Origin
- France
- Source category
- Brain & Nervous System
- Status group
- Research chemical
Mechanism
Binds GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotrophs, raising cAMP/PKA signaling to open calcium channels and stimulate GH synthesis and secretion; works opposite somatostatin to create pulsatile GH release, modulated by IGF-1 feedback.
Safety file
Fluid retention, joint pain, and muscle aches are common; risks include hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and theoretical long-term diabetes or malignancy concerns.
- Injection site reactions
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Flushing
- Transient hypoglycemia