Increlex (Mecasermi)

Increlex is a synthetic (man-made) form of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), a naturally occurring bodily substance thats central to the growth of bones and muscles. Increlex is primarily used to treat growth deficiencies in children, specifically those whose bodies do not make enough natural IGF-1, and those with growth hormone (GH) gene deletion that have developed neutralizing antibodies to GH.

Increlex comes in a sterile, aqueous, clear and colorless solution intended for subcutaneous (beneath the skin) injection. Each 40 mg/4ml multi-dose vial of Increlex contains 10 mg/ml of mecasermin, 9 mg/ml of benzyl alcohol, 5.84 mg/ml of sodium chloride, 2 mg/ml of polysorbate 20, and 0.05M acetate at a pH of approximately 5.4. Increlex is typically administered twice a day.

Purpose:

For bodybuilding/athletic purposes Increlex is used to stimulate the growth of skeletal muscle and to strengthen connective tissue, as well as to support the absorption of fatty acids, glucose, and amino acids.

However, Increlex is not generally used by athletes because of its propensity to promote hypoglycemia, its most common side effect. Due to this condition, Increlex usage requires close blood glucose monitoring and should be administered 20 minutes prior to or after meals and snacks. The recommended dosage is 40-80 mcg twice a day, which may be increased daily by increments of 40 mcg to a maximum dosage of 120 mcg twice daily for 8-12 weeks.

Side Effects:

Possible side effects involving Increlex may include: hypoglycemia; dizziness; joint pain; thickening of facial skin and; easy bruising, pain, redness, or skin changes at the injection site. Serious side effects are rare, but can result in: blurred vision; severe headaches; pain behind the eyes; vomiting; pain in the hip or knee; walking with a limp; seizure (convulsions); swollen tonsils; snoring; breathing problems during sleep; pain or fullness in the ear and; hearing problems. Possible allergic reactions to Increlex may result in spontaneous: hives; difficulty breathing and; swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.