Sermorelin is a peptide medication designed to stimulate the body’s natural production of growth hormone. As a biological molecule composed of amino acids, Sermorelin is sensitive to environmental conditions, particularly temperature. Proper storage is paramount for maintaining the drug’s structural integrity and ensuring its therapeutic effectiveness. The molecule must remain stable and potent until the moment of injection.
Standard Storage Requirements
The storage requirements for Sermorelin differ based on whether it is in its lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder form or its reconstituted liquid state. Before reconstitution, the dry powder should be stored in a refrigerator, ideally between 2°C and 8°C (36°F to 46°F), to maximize its shelf life.
Once the powder is mixed with bacteriostatic water, the solution’s sensitivity to heat increases dramatically. The reconstituted solution must be stored under consistent refrigeration, typically 2°C to 8°C, to preserve potency. The reconstituted solution is generally stable for up to 30 days under these conditions. Freezing must be avoided, as ice crystals can physically damage the peptide structure.
Temperature Excursion and Stability Limits
The primary concern for users is the maximum duration the reconstituted Sermorelin solution can safely remain outside of the recommended refrigeration range. For short-term, unavoidable temperature excursions, such as during travel or transport, the reconstituted peptide typically maintains stability for up to 72 hours when kept at room temperature, approximately 25°C (77°F). This three-day window represents the limit for maintaining acceptable potency and should not be considered a standard storage practice.
The lyophilized powder, conversely, is significantly more robust and is often shipped unrefrigerated, though it must be placed into a refrigerator immediately upon receipt for long-term storage. Once the reconstituted solution exceeds this 72-hour period outside of refrigeration, its potency begins to decline rapidly and unpredictably. The best practice is to minimize all exposure to temperatures above 8°C.
Consequences of Improper Storage
Exposure to temperatures above 8°C initiates peptide degradation, causing the amino acid sequence to break down. Heat disrupts the chemical bonds that maintain the peptide’s three-dimensional shape. This structural change prevents the molecule from effectively binding to its receptor in the pituitary gland.
The consequence of degradation is a reduction in the medication’s biological efficacy, meaning the drug will no longer stimulate growth hormone release as intended. Using a degraded product interrupts the treatment plan and leads to wasted medication without achieving the desired physiological effect.
Safe Handling and Reconstitution
Careful handling during preparation prevents premature degradation and contamination. Sermorelin is mixed with bacteriostatic water, which contains a preservative to inhibit bacterial growth. When adding the diluent to the lyophilized powder, inject the water slowly down the side of the vial to prevent frothing or bubbling.
After adding the diluent, gently swirl the solution until the powder fully dissolves, avoiding vigorous shaking which can damage the peptide molecules. Once mixed, label the vial with the date of reconstitution and immediately place it into the refrigerator. Before each use, visually inspect the solution; it should appear clear and colorless. Cloudiness, discoloration, or particulate matter indicates potential degradation or contamination, necessitating disposal.