1. Cardioprotection
Sermorelin exhibits cardioprotective effects. It has been shown to decrease cardiac remodeling and scarring following myocardial infarction. One study conducted on swine with ischemic cardiomyopathy found that GHRH analog reduced the size of infarct and improved diastolic strain. Furthermore, the activation of GHRH receptors initiated the signaling for the repairing process [1].
Similarly, another study reports that GHRH agonists can suppress inflammatory responses after a heart attack. Plus, these agents have the tendency to increase the number of blood vessels in the damaged area and reduce the death of cardiomyocytes. In short, sermorelin can improve the process of healing and cardiac remodeling through pathways involved in fibrosis, apoptosis and cardiac repair [2].
2. Lipodystrophy
In the case of AIDS, the use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has been shown to be associated with the development of lipodystrophy. It is an abnormal condition characterized by the uneven distribution of body fat. It may cause patient distress and lead to poor adherence to the therapy. Furthermore, low levels of growth hormones are observed in men with HIV lipodystrophy [3].
One study was conducted to test the hypothesis that GHRH analog can be used to treat/manage lipodystrophy in AIDS patients. 31 HIV men were recruited and randomized to receive either placebo or GHRH analog twice daily for 12 weeks. The results found that the treatment effectively increased the concentration of insulin-like growth factor-1. Plus, it also improved total and regional body composition, improved lean mass and reduced visceral fat. These findings indicate that GHRH agonists, including sermorelin, might potentially be a beneficial treatment strategy for HIV patients with lipodystrophy [4].
3. Antiaging Effects
The age-related changes are associated with a decrease in the levels of GH as people get older. GHRH analogs stimulate IGF-1 concentration and increase pituitary preserve. It also might be able to restore the neuroendocrine axis and promote youthful physiology in aging individuals [5].
One study involving elderly male and female participants was conducted to check the effect of GHRH analog on aging. Participants self-injected themselves with placebo for 4 weeks followed by a 16-week administration of a GHRH analog. The administration of the GHRH analog at night resulted in a rapid increase in growth hormone levels within 10 minutes, which was sustained for up to 2 hours. Additionally, the results revealed elevated levels of IGF-1 and IGFBP3, increased skin thickness, and an increase in lean body mass. Notably, improvements in insulin sensitivity and libido were observed in men, suggesting a more pronounced treatment effect on women [6].
4. Sleep Quality
Research shows that orexin, a neurochemical produced by the brain, plays an important role in the regulation of the sleep cycle. Studies show that sermorelin and other GHRH agonists can boost orexin levels, thus improving sleep quality [7]. Furthermore, poor sleep is associated with age-related cognitive decline. The beneficial effects of GHRH analog, including sermorelin, on sleep might be because of its ability to enhance cognitive skills [8].
5. Growth Hormone Deficiency Disorder
Sermorelin produces the same effect as recombinant growth hormone. It builds muscle mass, boosts strength and enhances performance. However, sermorelin is preferred over recombinant growth hormone as it causes fewer side effects. It mimics the physiological process and is subjected to feedback mechanisms, thus preventing adverse effects like improper dosing and disruption of normal processes.
Furthermore, it is not affected by tachyphylaxis. It is a condition in which the body’s response to a drug is lost after repeated exposure and requires higher doses to achieve the desired effects [5].