Capromorelin (GASTHOF) (development code CP-424,391) is FDA-approved for veterinary use, but is still in the research phase for human use. It works by stimulating the secretion of growth hormone and acts as a ghrelin mimetic, causing the body to secrete human growth hormone in a way that is normally seen during adolescence and youth. Preliminary studies suggest that the drug directly increases insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and growth hormone levels.
The drug is being considered for its therapeutic value in older adults, who have much lower levels of growth hormone and much less lean muscle mass, which can lead to weakness and frailty
