Macimorelin (INN) is a synthetic peptide agonist of the ghrelin receptor and a drug used to diagnose adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD). It is marketed under the brand name Macrilen by Novartis AG. Macimorelin is a ghrelin receptor agonist that stimulates the release of growth hormone (GH) in the body, allowing it to be diagnosed with a simple blood test. It is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). It is indicated for the diagnosis of AGHD in adults aged 18–80 years. It is given orally as a single dose of 0.3 mg/kg body weight, and serum GH concentrations are measured at 0, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 minutes. The results are evaluated to determine if the GH response is deficient.
Macimorelin is a medication used to diagnose adult growth hormone deficiency, not to treat it. Here's a breakdown of what it does:
- Function: Macimorelin acts like a stimulant for the growth hormone production in the body. It does this by mimicking a natural hormone called ghrelin, which triggers the pituitary gland to release growth hormone.
- Medical Use: Doctors give macimorelin as part of a test to measure growth hormone levels. If the body doesn't respond to macimorelin with a sufficient growth hormone increase, it might indicate growth hormone deficiency.
- Brand Name: Macrilen is one of the brand names for macimorelin.
Some additional points to consider:
- Macimorelin comes in a tablet form and is typically taken orally.
- It's important to take macimorelin on an empty stomach for best results, as food can affect its absorption.