Human Growth Hormone (HGH) vs PEG-MGF vs Sermorelin
A three-way comparison to help you find the right peptide for your research goals.
Human Growth Hormone (HGH)
Human Growth Hormone (somatropin) is a 191-amino acid protein identical to naturally produced GH. FDA-approved for growth hormone deficiency, Turner syndrome, and other conditions. Widely used off-label for anti-aging and performance.
Full details →PEG-MGF
PEG-MGF (PEGylated Mechano Growth Factor) is a variant of IGF-1 that is produced in response to muscle damage. PEGylation extends its half-life from minutes to several hours, making it practical for use.
Full details →Sermorelin
Sermorelin is a synthetic analog of GHRH consisting of the first 29 amino acids of the natural hormone. It was previously FDA-approved for GH deficiency diagnosis and treatment in children.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Human Growth Hormone (HGH) | PEG-MGF | Sermorelin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Binds to GH receptors throughout the body, stimulating IGF-1 production in the liver. Promotes protein synthesis, fat metabolism, and cellular regeneration across multiple tissues. | Activates muscle satellite cells (stem cells) and promotes their fusion to existing muscle fibers for repair and growth. MGF is produced naturally in response to mechanical stress on muscles. | Binds to GHRH receptors in the pituitary gland to stimulate natural GH production and release. Maintains the body's natural feedback mechanisms for GH regulation. |
| Typical Dosage | Medical: 0.1-0.3mg/kg/week divided into daily doses. Anti-aging: 1-2 IU daily. Performance: 2-6 IU daily, sometimes higher. | Research protocols typically use 200-400mcg injected into targeted muscle groups 2-3 times weekly, usually post-workout. | Typical dosing: 200-500mcg administered once daily, usually before bed. Some protocols use twice daily dosing. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, preferably at night to mimic natural pulsatile release. Rotate injection sites. Store refrigerated. | Intramuscular injection, ideally into muscles trained that day. Best administered post-workout when satellite cell activation is relevant. | Subcutaneous injection, preferably at bedtime to work with natural GH release patterns. Can be combined with GHRPs for synergistic effects. |
| Side Effects | Joint pain, water retention, carpal tunnel syndrome, potential insulin resistance, and acromegaly features with long-term high doses. | Injection site soreness, potential hypoglycemia, and localized swelling. Generally well-tolerated. | Generally well-tolerated. May cause injection site reactions, headache, flushing, or dizziness. Less side effects than direct GH administration. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Human Growth Hormone (HGH), PEG-MGF, Sermorelin are all commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to Human Growth Hormone (HGH):
Unique to Sermorelin:
Detailed Analysis
Commonalities
Both Human Growth Hormone (HGH) and PEG-MGF are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Recovery & Healing.
Which Should You Choose?
Human Growth Hormone (HGH) has stronger evidence for Muscle Growth, Recovery & Healing.
Commonalities
Both Human Growth Hormone (HGH) and Sermorelin are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss, Recovery & Healing, Sleep Quality.
Which Should You Choose?
Human Growth Hormone (HGH) has stronger evidence for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss, Recovery & Healing.
Commonalities
Both PEG-MGF and Sermorelin are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Recovery & Healing.
Which Should You Choose?
Both peptides have similar evidence levels for their shared goals. Your choice may depend on specific use case, availability, or personal response.