Mecasermin
Increlex (mecasermin) is a brand-name recombinant human insulin-like growth factor-1 (rhIGF-1) medication used to treat growth failure in children and adolescents with severe primary IGF-1 deficiency. It works by binding to IGF-1 receptors and activating growth pathways to promote skeletal growth, similar to the body's natural IGF-1 hormone.
Increlex is an injectable growth-promoting therapy for children with severe primary IGF-1 deficiency who have growth failure despite normal growth hormone levels.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 614390
- Generic
- Increlex
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Increlex is indicated for the treatment of growth failure in children and adolescents (ages 2-18) with severe primary insulin-like growth factor-1 deficiency (primary IGFD), characterized by a height standard deviation score ≤ -3.0 and normal growth hormone levels.
Increlex contains recombinant human IGF-1, which binds to IGF-1 receptors on target cells including growth plate chondrocytes. This activates intracellular signaling pathways that stimulate cellular proliferation, differentiation, and growth, directly promoting skeletal growth independent of growth hormone.
Increlex is administered via subcutaneous injection twice daily, typically shortly before or after a meal due to hypoglycemia risk. It should not be used in patients with closed epiphyses (ceased bone growth) or with active/suspected malignancy. Common side effects include injection site reactions, hypoglycemia, headache, and joint pain. Regular monitoring of growth response, blood glucose, and for signs of intracranial hypertension is recommended.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy