Mecasermin (Increlex)
Overview
Mecasermin is recombinant human insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) consisting of 70 amino acids identical to the endogenous peptide hormone. It binds to IGF-1 receptors to promote growth and anabolic processes, bypassing the need for growth hormone receptor signaling.
Mechanism of Action
Mecasermin is indicated specifically for children with severe primary IGF-1 deficiency or growth hormone gene deletion who have developed neutralizing antibodies to growth hormone.
Research Summary & Key Findings
FDA approval was granted in 2005 for primary IGF-1 deficiency based on clinical trials showing improved linear growth in children who cannot respond to growth hormone therapy. Post-marketing data have refined use to the narrowest indicated population due to safety concerns including hypoglycemia and tonsillar hypertrophy. Mecasermin remains the only approved therapy for severe primary IGF-1 deficiency.
Clinical Status
Mecasermin (Increlex) has received FDA approval and is available for clinical use under appropriate medical supervision. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for prescribing information.
Administration Routes
References
Primary literature
- PubMed — "Mecasermin"
Peer-reviewed literature indexed by the National Library of Medicine.
- ClinicalTrials.gov — "Mecasermin"
Registered interventional and observational studies, including status and phase.
- PubChem — "Mecasermin"
Chemical structure, molecular properties, and bioactivity data.
Study-level citations for this compound are being verified against the primary sources before publication. The database queries above return the current indexed literature in the meantime.
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