Sermorelin vs. Synthetic HGH: Which Growth Hormone Therapy Is Right for You in Edina, MN?
- Gary M. Rudashevsky, NP
- May 6, 2025
- 19 min read
Key Takeaways
Sermorelin stimulates your body's natural growth hormone production, while synthetic HGH delivers growth hormone directly into your bloodstream
Sermorelin is generally safer for long-term use because it preserves your body's natural feedback mechanisms and reduces the risk of over-supplementation
Proper diagnosis requires comprehensive blood testing including IGF-1, growth hormone levels, and related biomarkers
You can order your own growth hormone-related lab tests at Medical Specialists MN without a doctor's order—online through our Direct Access Testing portal or by calling our office
Most patients seeking wellness and anti-aging benefits are better candidates for Sermorelin therapy, while synthetic HGH is typically reserved for severe documented deficiencies
Results from Sermorelin therapy typically appear within 2-4 weeks for sleep and energy, with body composition changes becoming noticeable after 3-6 months
Cost-effectiveness matters: Sermorelin therapy typically costs 50-70% less than synthetic HGH treatment
Understanding Growth Hormone Decline and Replacement Options
Growth hormone deficiency affects countless adults across the Twin Cities area, leading to decreased energy, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, poor sleep quality, and diminished overall vitality. At Medical Specialists MN in Edina, we help patients understand their options for growth hormone optimization, including the critical differences between Sermorelin therapy and synthetic human growth hormone (HGH) injections.
As we age, natural growth hormone production from the pituitary gland decreases significantly. According to research published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, growth hormone secretion declines by approximately 14% per decade after age 30, contributing to many age-related changes in body composition and energy levels. This decline has led many Minnesota residents to seek growth hormone replacement therapies, but choosing the right approach requires understanding how these treatments work differently in your body.
What Is Synthetic Human Growth Hormone (HGH)?
Synthetic HGH is a laboratory-manufactured version of somatotropin, the growth hormone naturally produced by your pituitary gland. This bioidentical hormone is administered through daily subcutaneous injections and directly raises growth hormone levels in your bloodstream.
The FDA approved synthetic HGH in 1985 for specific medical conditions, including growth hormone deficiency, Turner syndrome, chronic renal insufficiency, and muscle-wasting disease associated with HIV/AIDS. According to the Mayo Clinic, synthetic HGH therapy requires careful medical supervision and is typically reserved for documented hormone deficiencies confirmed through comprehensive laboratory testing.
How Synthetic HGH Works in Your Body
When you inject synthetic HGH, you're bypassing your body's natural production and regulation systems. The hormone enters your bloodstream directly, raising IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor-1) levels rapidly. While this provides quick results, it also means your pituitary gland receives no signal to produce its own growth hormone, potentially leading to glandular suppression over time.
Research from the New England Journal of Medicine indicates that long-term synthetic HGH use may interfere with the body's natural feedback mechanisms, potentially making it more difficult for your pituitary to resume normal production if treatment is discontinued.
Potential Risks and Side Effects of Synthetic HGH
The Endocrine Society notes several concerns with synthetic HGH therapy, particularly when used for anti-aging purposes rather than true medical deficiency:
Fluid retention and edema (swelling in hands and feet)
Joint pain and muscle aches
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Increased insulin resistance and potential diabetes risk
Gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue in men)
Potential acceleration of existing cancers (though not proven to cause cancer)
Suppression of natural pituitary function
These side effects typically occur because synthetic HGH provides constant, unregulated hormone levels rather than the natural pulsatile (rhythmic) secretion your body is designed to produce.
What Is Sermorelin Therapy and How Does It Work?
Sermorelin is a growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog consisting of the first 29 amino acids of naturally occurring GHRH. Rather than providing growth hormone directly, Sermorelin stimulates your pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone according to your body's natural rhythms.
The FDA originally approved Sermorelin (under the brand name Geref) for diagnostic testing of pituitary function. Medical practitioners now use compounded Sermorelin acetate for peptide therapy aimed at optimizing growth hormone production naturally.
The Science Behind Sermorelin Stimulation
When administered (typically through subcutaneous injection before bedtime), Sermorelin binds to growth hormone-releasing hormone receptors on your pituitary gland. This binding triggers the release of growth hormone in natural, pulsatile waves—similar to how your body produced growth hormone in your youth.
According to research published in Clinical Endocrinology, this approach preserves the body's natural negative feedback loop. When growth hormone and IGF-1 levels reach optimal ranges, your hypothalamus naturally reduces stimulation, preventing over-production and maintaining hormonal balance.
Why Timing Matters: Sermorelin and Sleep
At Medical Specialists MN, we typically recommend Sermorelin injections before bedtime because this aligns with your body's natural growth hormone secretion patterns. According to the Journal of Clinical Investigation, the largest pulse of growth hormone naturally occurs during the first few hours of deep sleep.
By administering Sermorelin at night, we're working with your body's circadian rhythms rather than against them, potentially enhancing sleep quality while optimizing hormone production—a dual benefit many Twin Cities patients appreciate.
Is Sermorelin Safer Than Synthetic HGH for Long-Term Use?
For most patients seeking growth hormone optimization for wellness and anti-aging purposes, Sermorelin offers several safety advantages over synthetic HGH:
Preserved Natural Regulation
Because Sermorelin stimulates natural production rather than providing hormone directly, your body maintains its feedback mechanisms. Research from the American Journal of Physiology demonstrates that pituitary-produced growth hormone follows normal pulsatile patterns, reducing the risk of chronically elevated hormone levels that can occur with synthetic HGH.
Lower Risk of Side Effects
Clinical studies indicate that Sermorelin therapy produces fewer adverse effects than synthetic HGH. The most commonly reported side effects are mild and may include:
Temporary injection site reactions (redness, slight swelling)
Mild headache
Flushing
Dizziness
Serious side effects are rare when Sermorelin is administered under proper medical supervision with appropriate dosing.
Reduced Regulatory Concerns
Synthetic HGH is classified as a controlled substance with strict prescribing guidelines, while Sermorelin peptide therapy falls under different regulatory oversight. This doesn't mean Sermorelin is unregulated—it still requires a prescription and medical supervision—but it does reflect the medical community's recognition of its different safety profile.
Cost-Effectiveness for Minnesota Patients
Sermorelin therapy typically costs significantly less than synthetic HGH treatment. For Twin Cities residents seeking long-term hormone optimization, this difference in cost can make consistent therapy more accessible while potentially providing more sustainable results.
What Are the Benefits of Sermorelin for Edina Residents?
Patients at Medical Specialists MN report numerous benefits from Sermorelin therapy when combined with comprehensive hormone optimization:
Improved Body Composition
Research published in Obesity Research demonstrates that growth hormone stimulation through GHRH analogs like Sermorelin can support lean muscle development and reduction in visceral fat. Many patients notice improved muscle tone and easier weight management within 3-6 months of consistent therapy.
Enhanced Energy and Vitality
By supporting natural growth hormone production, Sermorelin may help restore energy levels that declined with age. According to the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, improved growth hormone status correlates with better physical performance and reduced fatigue in aging adults.
Better Sleep Quality
Many patients experience improved sleep architecture with Sermorelin therapy. This creates a beneficial cycle: better sleep supports better hormone production, which further enhances sleep quality.
Cognitive Function and Mood Support
Growth hormone receptors exist throughout the brain, and research from Psychoneuroendocrinology suggests that optimal growth hormone levels may support cognitive function, memory, and mood stability. Patients often report feeling mentally sharper and more emotionally balanced.
Skin Health and Anti-Aging Effects
According to dermatological research, growth hormone supports collagen production and skin thickness. While not a primary indication, many patients notice improvements in skin texture and reduced appearance of fine lines as a secondary benefit of Sermorelin therapy.
Metabolic Health Support
Studies in Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental indicate that optimal growth hormone levels support healthy glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity—important factors for metabolic health as we age.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Sermorelin vs. Synthetic HGH?
The choice between Sermorelin and synthetic HGH depends on several medical factors:
Ideal Candidates for Sermorelin Therapy
Sermorelin works best for patients who:
Have age-related growth hormone decline rather than severe deficiency
Seek wellness and anti-aging benefits
Prefer natural hormone stimulation over direct replacement
Want to preserve their pituitary function
Are looking for long-term hormone optimization
Have a functioning pituitary gland capable of producing growth hormone
Show low-normal or moderately reduced IGF-1 levels on blood testing
At Medical Specialists MN, we've successfully treated hundreds of Twin Cities patients with Sermorelin as part of comprehensive hormone optimization programs.
When Synthetic HGH May Be Necessary
Synthetic HGH may be more appropriate for patients with:
Documented severe growth hormone deficiency (IGF-1 below normal range)
Pituitary damage or dysfunction
Failed stimulation test results
Specific medical conditions requiring direct hormone replacement
Failure to respond adequately to Sermorelin stimulation
Severe symptoms requiring faster intervention
These situations require thorough diagnostic testing and careful medical evaluation, which we provide through our in-house laboratory at our Edina location.
How Medical Specialists MN Determines the Right Treatment for You
At Medical Specialists MN, located at 6550 York Ave S #211 in Edina, we take a comprehensive approach to growth hormone optimization:
Step 1: Comprehensive Medical Evaluation
Your journey begins with a thorough evaluation including:
Review of symptoms and health history
Physical examination
Assessment of lifestyle factors
Discussion of health goals
Review of current medications and supplements
Step 2: Comprehensive Hormone Testing
Based on your evaluation, we'll recommend appropriate laboratory testing to assess your growth hormone status and overall hormonal health. This comprehensive approach ensures we identify all factors contributing to your symptoms.
Step 3: Personalized Treatment Planning
Nicolie Houdek, FNP-C, Angela Elliott, APRN, and our experienced team create individualized treatment protocols based on your:
Current hormone levels and test results
Symptom severity and duration
Medical history and contraindications
Lifestyle factors and commitment to therapy
Response goals and expectations
Budget considerations
We don't believe in one-size-fits-all hormone replacement—your treatment should be as unique as you are.
Step 4: Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustment
Hormone optimization requires regular follow-up to ensure optimal results and safety. We provide:
Repeat testing typically at 3 months, 6 months, and annually
Symptom assessment at each follow-up visit
Dosage adjustments based on your response and lab values
Side effect management if needed
Integration with other wellness therapies including nutrition, exercise, and additional hormone optimization
This comprehensive approach ensures you receive the safest, most effective treatment for your individual needs.
Monitoring Your Progress: What to Expect During Therapy
Initial Phase (Weeks 1-4)
What to expect:
Initial improvements in sleep quality
Gradual increase in energy levels
Possible mild side effects (injection site reactions, mild headache)
Lab monitoring: No immediate testing needed. Your body is beginning to respond to Sermorelin stimulation.
Early Response Phase (Months 2-3)
What to expect:
Noticeable improvement in energy and motivation
Better exercise recovery
Possible initial changes in body composition
Continued improvement in sleep
Lab monitoring: First follow-up IGF-1 testing at 8-12 weeks. We'll assess whether your levels are moving toward optimal ranges and adjust dosing if needed.
Optimization Phase (Months 4-6)
What to expect:
More significant changes in body composition
Improved muscle tone and reduced body fat
Enhanced skin quality
Cognitive and mood improvements
Sustained energy improvements
Lab monitoring: Repeat comprehensive hormone panel at 6 months including IGF-1, metabolic markers, and related hormones.
Maintenance Phase (6+ months)
What to expect:
Sustained benefits with continued therapy
Stable optimal hormone levels
Long-term improvements in vitality and wellness
Lab monitoring: Annual comprehensive testing to ensure continued safety and effectiveness. Some patients may reduce frequency or dosing once optimal levels are achieved and maintained.
Combining Sermorelin with Other Peptide Therapies
Many patients at Medical Specialists MN benefit from combining Sermorelin with complementary peptide therapies:
GHRP-2 and GHRP-6
Growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs) work synergistically with Sermorelin to potentially enhance growth hormone release. Research suggests that combining GHRH analogs like Sermorelin with GHRPs may produce greater IGF-1 elevation than either therapy alone.
Ipamorelin
Ipamorelin is another growth hormone secretagogue that may complement Sermorelin therapy. Some practitioners use these in combination for patients who need additional support for growth hormone optimization, particularly those with lower initial response to Sermorelin alone.
CJC-1295
CJC-1295 is a longer-acting GHRH analog that may be used alongside or instead of Sermorelin in certain treatment protocols. Your provider will help determine which approach best suits your needs based on your lab results and response to therapy.
Integration with Comprehensive Hormone Optimization
At Medical Specialists MN, we often combine Sermorelin therapy with:
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for men with low testosterone
Bioidentical hormone replacement (BHRT) for women in perimenopause or menopause
Thyroid optimization when testing reveals hypothyroidism
Metabolic support including nutritional guidance and exercise recommendations
This comprehensive approach addresses the interconnected nature of your endocrine system rather than focusing on growth hormone in isolation.
What Does Current Research Say About Sermorelin vs. HGH?
Recent clinical research continues to support the use of growth hormone-releasing hormones like Sermorelin for age-related hormone decline:
A 2019 study in Growth Hormone & IGF Research found that GHRH analogs effectively stimulate growth hormone production with a favorable safety profile compared to direct growth hormone administration. Researchers noted that IGF-1 levels increased appropriately without the excessive elevation sometimes seen with synthetic HGH.
Research from the Journal of Applied Physiology demonstrates that natural growth hormone pulses (as stimulated by Sermorelin) produce more physiological benefits than constant hormone levels from synthetic HGH injections. The pulsatile release appears important for optimal metabolic effects and reduced side effects.
The International Journal of Endocrinology published findings showing that maintaining pituitary function through GHRH stimulation may be preferable for long-term hormone health compared to bypassing the gland with synthetic hormone replacement. This "use it or lose it" principle suggests that keeping your pituitary active through Sermorelin may help preserve its function long-term.
These studies reinforce what we observe clinically at Medical Specialists MN: for most patients seeking hormone optimization for wellness purposes, Sermorelin provides excellent results with fewer concerns than synthetic HGH.
Understanding Growth Hormone Testing: What You Need to Know
Before beginning any growth hormone therapy, comprehensive testing is essential to establish baseline levels, confirm deficiency, and monitor your response to treatment. At Medical Specialists MN, we provide complete growth hormone evaluation through our in-house laboratory.
What Blood Tests Measure Growth Hormone Status?
Understanding growth hormone levels requires more than a single test. Here's what comprehensive growth hormone testing includes:
IGF-1 (Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1)
What it is: IGF-1 is the primary marker we use to assess growth hormone status. According to the Mayo Clinic, IGF-1 is produced primarily by the liver in response to growth hormone stimulation, and levels remain relatively stable throughout the day.
Why it matters: Unlike growth hormone itself (which pulses throughout the day and is difficult to measure accurately), IGF-1 provides a reliable indication of your average growth hormone production over time. Low IGF-1 typically indicates insufficient growth hormone, while elevated levels may suggest excess growth hormone activity.
Normal ranges: Normal IGF-1 levels vary significantly by age:
Ages 25-39: 116-358 ng/mL
Ages 40-54: 90-360 ng/mL
Ages 55+: 71-290 ng/mL
Note: These are general reference ranges; your optimal levels may differ based on individual factors.
IGFBP-3 (IGF Binding Protein-3)
What it is: IGFBP-3 is the primary carrier protein for IGF-1 in the bloodstream. According to research in Clinical Endocrinology, it's also growth hormone-dependent and provides additional information about growth hormone status.
Why it matters: Testing both IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 together provides a more complete picture of growth hormone activity. Low levels of both markers strengthen the diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency.
How we use it: At Medical Specialists MN, we include IGFBP-3 in comprehensive hormone panels to improve diagnostic accuracy and monitor treatment response.
Growth Hormone (GH) Serum Test
What it is: This test measures the actual amount of growth hormone in your blood at the time of the blood draw.
Why it's challenging: Growth hormone is released in pulses throughout the day, with the highest levels occurring during deep sleep. A single random GH measurement often provides limited information because you might have the blood drawn between pulses when levels are naturally low.
When we use it: Random GH tests are most useful when levels are elevated (suggesting excess production) or when combined with stimulation testing. For most diagnostic purposes, IGF-1 is more reliable.
Growth Hormone Stimulation Testing
What it is: This specialized test measures your pituitary gland's ability to produce growth hormone in response to various stimuli (arginine, glucagon, or GHRH like Sermorelin).
How it works: You receive an injection of a growth hormone stimulant, then blood is drawn at specific intervals (typically 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes) to measure how your pituitary responds.
When we use it: According to the Endocrine Society, stimulation testing is the gold standard for diagnosing true growth hormone deficiency. However, it's not necessary for everyone—we reserve it for cases where diagnosis remains unclear after standard testing.
Available at our Edina office: We can perform growth hormone stimulation testing when clinically indicated, giving you access to advanced diagnostic capabilities without referral to larger medical centers.
Additional Related Tests
Comprehensive growth hormone evaluation at Medical Specialists MN also includes:
Thyroid Function Tests (TSH, Free T3, Free T4): Thyroid hormones interact closely with growth hormone. Hypothyroidism can lower IGF-1 levels and contribute to symptoms similar to growth hormone deficiency.
Testosterone (for men) and Estradiol (for women): Sex hormones influence IGF-1 production and interact with growth hormone pathways. Comprehensive hormone optimization often addresses multiple hormones simultaneously.
Cortisol: Chronic stress and elevated cortisol can suppress growth hormone production. Morning cortisol testing helps identify whether stress is contributing to hormonal imbalance.
Hemoglobin A1C and Fasting Glucose: Growth hormone affects glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. These tests establish baseline metabolic health and help monitor for potential effects during therapy.
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel: Liver and kidney function testing ensures safe metabolism and clearance of hormones and medications.
Lipid Panel: Growth hormone influences cholesterol metabolism. Baseline and follow-up lipid testing helps track metabolic improvements during therapy.
Take Control: Direct Access Lab Testing at Medical Specialists MN
At Medical Specialists MN, we believe knowledge is power when it comes to your hormonal health. That's why we offer Direct Access Testing (DAT)—no doctor's order required for most tests.
How Direct Access Testing Works
You have three convenient options to order your growth hormone-related lab tests:
Option 1: Order Online Through Our Portal
Visit medicalspecialistsmn.com and navigate to our Direct Access Testing portal
Select the growth hormone panel or individual tests you need
Complete your order and payment online
Choose your preferred appointment time through the online scheduling system
Come to our Edina office at your scheduled time for blood draw
Option 2: Call Our Office
Contact us at (952) 225-5400
Speak with our knowledgeable staff about which tests are appropriate for your concerns
We'll help you select the right panel and schedule your appointment
Complete a brief intake form when you arrive for your appointment
Option 3: Fill Out Our Contact Form
Visit medicalspecialistsmn.com and complete our contact form
Indicate you're interested in growth hormone testing
Our team will reach out within one business day to discuss your needs and schedule your appointment
What to Expect When You Order Direct Access Testing
Order Selection: Choose from pre-designed hormone panels or create a custom panel based on your specific concerns
Appointment Scheduling: Select a convenient time through our online portal or by phone
Blood Draw: Visit our Edina office at your scheduled time. Our experienced phlebotomists will collect your sample in our comfortable, private facility
Results Processing: Our in-house laboratory processes most tests same-day or next-day
Results Review: You'll receive your results through our secure patient portal. You can then schedule a consultation to review results with one of our providers
Recommended Growth Hormone Testing Panels
Basic Growth Hormone Panel:
IGF-1
IGFBP-3
Comprehensive metabolic panel
Comprehensive Hormone Optimization Panel:
IGF-1
IGFBP-3
Thyroid function (TSH, Free T3, Free T4)
Testosterone (men) or Estradiol (women)
DHEA-S
Cortisol (AM)
Hemoglobin A1C
Lipid panel
Comprehensive metabolic panel
Complete Anti-Aging & Wellness Panel: All tests from the Comprehensive Panel plus:
Vitamin D
Vitamin B12
Homocysteine
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)
Additional metabolic markers
Benefits of Direct Access Testing at Medical Specialists MN
No Insurance Hassles: Pay competitive cash prices without dealing with insurance pre-authorizations, deductibles, or coverage denials.
Convenient Scheduling: Choose appointment times that fit your schedule, including early morning and evening options.
Privacy and Control: Take charge of your health without needing a doctor's referral or sharing results with insurance companies.
Expert Consultation Available: Once you have results, schedule a consultation with our hormone specialists to discuss findings and treatment options.
Accurate, Quality Testing: Our laboratory uses the same high-quality equipment and standards as major medical centers, ensuring accurate, reliable results.
What Your Test Results Mean
Once you receive your growth hormone testing results, here's what to look for:
IGF-1 in the Lower Third of Normal Range: May indicate age-related growth hormone decline. You might benefit from Sermorelin therapy to optimize levels toward the middle or upper range.
IGF-1 Below Normal Range: Suggests more significant growth hormone deficiency. May warrant further evaluation with stimulation testing and consideration of either Sermorelin or synthetic HGH therapy.
IGF-1 in the Upper Half of Normal Range: Generally indicates adequate growth hormone production. If experiencing symptoms, other hormonal imbalances may be responsible.
IGF-1 Above Normal Range: Uncommon and requires medical evaluation to rule out growth hormone excess or other conditions.
Remember: Lab results are just one piece of the puzzle. Symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and overall health goals all factor into determining the best treatment approach.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sermorelin and HGH
How quickly will I see results from Sermorelin therapy?
Most patients begin noticing improvements in sleep quality and energy within 2-4 weeks. Changes in body composition typically become apparent after 3-6 months of consistent therapy. Your IGF-1 levels on follow-up blood work usually begin increasing within 4-8 weeks. Results vary based on individual factors including age, baseline hormone levels, diet, exercise habits, and treatment compliance.
Can I use Sermorelin if I'm already on testosterone replacement therapy?
Yes. Many patients at our Edina clinic combine Sermorelin with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for comprehensive hormone optimization. In fact, these therapies often complement each other well, as both decline with age. Some research suggests that testosterone may enhance the effectiveness of growth hormone therapy, and vice versa.
How do I know if my growth hormone levels are low?
The best way to know is through blood testing. Order your IGF-1, IGFBP-3, and related hormone tests through our Direct Access Testing—no doctor's order required for most tests. You can order online at medicalspecialistsmn.com or call (952) 225-5400. Common symptoms of low growth hormone include fatigue, decreased muscle mass, increased body fat (especially abdominal), poor exercise recovery, reduced bone density, and decreased quality of life.
Is Sermorelin legal and FDA-approved?
Sermorelin acetate was originally FDA-approved as a diagnostic agent (brand name Geref). Compounded Sermorelin for therapeutic use requires a prescription from a licensed medical provider. At Medical Specialists MN, we only prescribe Sermorelin from licensed, quality-assured compounding pharmacies that follow strict manufacturing standards.
How much does Sermorelin therapy cost compared to HGH?
Sermorelin therapy typically costs 50-70% less than synthetic HGH treatment. Exact pricing varies based on dosage and treatment duration. Contact our Edina office at (952) 225-5400 for current pricing information. We also offer package pricing for patients committing to longer-term therapy. Initial lab testing through our Direct Access Testing is affordably priced as well.
Can Sermorelin help with weight loss?
While not primarily a weight loss medication, Sermorelin may support body composition changes by promoting lean muscle development and potentially reducing visceral fat. Studies show that improved growth hormone status correlates with better fat metabolism and muscle preservation. Best results occur when combined with proper nutrition and exercise. For dedicated medical weight loss programs, ask about our comprehensive weight management services including GLP-1 medications, MIC injections, and B12 therapy.
Are there any contraindications for Sermorelin therapy?
Sermorelin should not be used if you have active cancer, acute critical illness, diabetic retinopathy, or certain other medical conditions. A thorough medical evaluation is necessary before beginning therapy. Pregnant or nursing women should not use Sermorelin. Your comprehensive evaluation at Medical Specialists MN will identify any contraindications.
Do I need ongoing blood work while on Sermorelin?
Yes. Regular monitoring ensures safety and effectiveness. We typically recommend IGF-1 testing at 3 months, 6 months, and then annually once stable. Additional metabolic panels may be ordered periodically to monitor for any effects on glucose metabolism, liver function, or other parameters. The good news? You can order these follow-up tests yourself through our Direct Access Testing portal.
What happens if I stop Sermorelin therapy?
Unlike synthetic HGH (which can suppress your natural pituitary function), Sermorelin therapy doesn't typically cause dependency. If you discontinue Sermorelin, your growth hormone production will gradually return to your baseline levels—the same levels you had before starting therapy. Many patients choose to use Sermorelin long-term for sustained benefits, while others use it cyclically or for specific periods of optimization.
Can Sermorelin therapy help with anti-aging?
Research suggests that optimizing growth hormone levels through Sermorelin may support various aspects of healthy aging including body composition, energy, sleep, skin health, bone density, and metabolic function. However, it's not a "fountain of youth" and works best as part of a comprehensive wellness approach including proper nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep. Think of Sermorelin as one important tool in your anti-aging toolkit.
How is Sermorelin administered?
Sermorelin is administered via subcutaneous injection, typically before bedtime. Most patients inject in the abdomen or thigh using a small insulin-type needle. The injections are generally well-tolerated and become routine quickly. Our team provides thorough training on proper injection technique, and we're always available to answer questions or provide refresher training.
Getting Started with Growth Hormone Optimization in Edina
If you're experiencing symptoms of growth hormone decline—low energy, decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, poor sleep, reduced exercise capacity, or diminished vitality—growth hormone optimization may help you feel like yourself again.
Your First Steps:
1. Order Your Baseline Labs
Take control of your health by ordering comprehensive growth hormone testing through our Direct Access Testing:
Order online at medicalspecialistsmn.com through our patient portal
Call our office at (952) 225-5400 to discuss which tests are right for you
Fill out our contact form online and we'll reach out to help you get started
After ordering, schedule your appointment time through our online portal or by phone.
Recommended baseline panel includes:
IGF-1
IGFBP-3
Comprehensive metabolic panel
Thyroid function (TSH, Free T3, Free T4)
Testosterone (men) or Estradiol (women)
Hemoglobin A1C
Lipid panel
2. Come In for Your Blood Draw
Visit our Edina office at 6550 York Ave S #211 at your scheduled appointment time. Our experienced team will collect your sample quickly and comfortably in our private facility.
3. Receive Your Results
Most results are available within 24-48 hours through our secure patient portal. You'll receive notification when results are ready to view.
4. Schedule Your Consultation
Once you have lab results, schedule a comprehensive consultation with our hormone specialists. We'll review your:
Lab results and hormone levels
Symptoms and health history
Goals for therapy
Treatment options including Sermorelin, HGH, or other approaches
5. Begin Your Personalized Treatment Plan
If Sermorelin or another hormone therapy is appropriate for you, we'll create a customized treatment protocol including:
Specific dosing instructions
Injection technique training
Follow-up schedule
Lab monitoring plan
Lifestyle optimization recommendations
Why Choose Medical Specialists MN for Growth Hormone Therapy?
At Medical Specialists MN, we offer distinct advantages for Twin Cities residents seeking growth hormone optimization:
In-House Laboratory for Fast, Accurate Results
Our on-site lab means you get results quickly—often same-day or next-day for most tests. No waiting weeks for results from distant laboratories.
Direct Access Testing—No Doctor's Order Required
Order your own hormone tests online through our portal, by phone, or through our contact form. Take control of your health without unnecessary barriers or insurance complications.
15+ Years of Hormone Optimization Experience
Gary Rudashevsky, APRN (founder), Nicolie Houdek, FNP-C, and Angela Elliott, APRN have successfully treated thousands of patients with hormone-related concerns. We've developed deep expertise in growth hormone therapy specifically.
Comprehensive, Integrative Approach
We don't just treat numbers on a lab report. We consider your complete hormonal picture, lifestyle factors, nutrition, exercise, stress levels, and personal goals to create truly personalized treatment plans.
Convenient Edina Location
Located at 6550 York Ave S #211 in Edina, we're easily accessible for patients throughout the Twin Cities metro area with convenient parking and a comfortable, private facility.
Ongoing Support and Monitoring
We're with you throughout your hormone optimization journey. Regular follow-ups, accessible providers, and thorough monitoring ensure safe, effective treatment.
Schedule Your Growth Hormone Evaluation Today
Don't let declining growth hormone levels keep you from feeling your best. Whether Sermorelin, synthetic HGH, or another hormone optimization approach is right for you, we'll help you make an informed decision based on comprehensive testing and expert medical guidance.
Take the First Step Today:
Order Your Growth Hormone Testing:
Online: medicalspecialistsmn.com (Direct Access Testing portal)
Phone: (952) 225-5400
Contact form: Available on our website
Schedule Your Consultation: After receiving your lab results, call (952) 225-5400 or use our online scheduling portal to book your comprehensive hormone consultation.
Begin Your Journey: Start your personalized hormone optimization program with the experienced team at Medical Specialists MN.
Contact Medical Specialists MN:
Phone: (952) 225-5400
Address: 6550 York Ave S #211, Edina, MN 55435
Website: medicalspecialistsmn.com
Our experienced team is ready to help you navigate the world of growth hormone optimization and find the approach that's right for you. Call today or order your labs online to take the first step toward renewed energy, vitality, and optimal health.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Sermorelin and growth hormone therapies require a prescription and medical supervision. Growth hormone testing and treatment should be conducted under the guidance of qualified healthcare providers. Individual results may vary. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if hormone optimization therapy is appropriate for your specific health situation.
