Chemical Structure and Pharmacodynamics
Chemically, Sermorelinum is a peptide compound consisting of 40 to 44 amino acid residues. As a synthetic analogue of the endogenous releasing factor, the drug selectively acts on the somatotroph cells of the anterior pituitary gland. This interaction activates the production and enhances the secretion of growth hormone (somatotropin).
Clinical Application and Diagnostic Test
The primary clinical indication for using this agent is performing diagnostic tests. The main goal of the test is the accurate detection of growth hormone deficiency in children presenting with short stature.
Testing methodology includes the following steps:
- Administration: primarily intravenous, though subcutaneous and intranasal routes are also permitted.
- Venous blood sampling at strictly defined time intervals: before injection (at -15 and -1 minute) and after injection (at 15, 30, 45, 60, and 90 minutes).
Interpretation of results is based on quantitative values: if the growth hormone level in the samples is 7 ng/mL or lower, it confirms the presence of growth hormone deficiency as the true cause of growth retardation.
Adverse Reactions and Contraindications
In medical practice, sermorelin is generally well tolerated by patients, and adverse effects occur infrequently. Potential reactions include:
- brief sensation of warmth;
- facial flushing;
- mild pain directly at the injection site.
The medication is strictly contraindicated in cases of individual hypersensitivity to the peptide, as well as during pregnancy and breastfeeding.