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What is the difference between sermorelin and ipamorelin?

By Dr. Paul C. Holmwood, MD. Published . 1 min read.

Both are peptides that prompt the pituitary to release growth hormone, but through different routes: sermorelin mimics growth hormone-releasing hormone, while ipamorelin mimics ghrelin and acts on the growth hormone secretagogue receptor. Neither is an FDA-approved product, and both are prescription-only compounded medications.

What this means for you

Because they act on different receptors, they have sometimes been prescribed together, though that is a provider's decision rather than a default. Availability also differs: FDA decisions on which bulk substances pharmacies may compound have restricted ipamorelin at many pharmacies, while sermorelin remains more widely available. Which peptide, if either, fits a given patient depends on history, goals and what a licensed pharmacy can legally prepare in that state.

How it works at Biotech Lifestyle

Our longevity medicine program offers sermorelin after a provider evaluation. The provider explains the options that are available and appropriate for you, and the prescription is filled by a licensed U.S. compounding pharmacy.

Treatment pages: sermorelin, longevity medicine. Related reading: Sermorelin vs. Ipamorelin. All of our patient FAQs are collected on one page.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between sermorelin and ipamorelin?

Both are peptides that prompt the pituitary to release growth hormone, but through different routes: sermorelin mimics growth hormone-releasing hormone, while ipamorelin mimics ghrelin and acts on the growth hormone secretagogue receptor. Neither is an FDA-approved product, and both are prescription-only compounded medications.

Can sermorelin and ipamorelin be used together?

They have been combined in some protocols because they act on different receptors, but whether that is appropriate for you is your provider's decision.

Which is better, sermorelin or ipamorelin?

Neither is better in general. The choice depends on your history, your goals and what a licensed pharmacy can compound in your state, which your provider weighs with you.

What to do next

A licensed provider reviews every assessment.

There is no charge to start.

Start a free online assessment with a licensed provider

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This article is for information only and is not medical advice. Compounded medications are prepared by licensed pharmacies for individual patients and are not FDA-approved. Prescriptions are issued only after evaluation by a licensed provider. Individual results vary.