Pipeline AIM Biologicals AEZS-150 AEZS-130 (Macimorelin) Macimorelin Dx
Macimorelin Diagnostic
The Only Approved Oral Diagnostic for Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency
Our lead product, macimorelin, is the only U.S. FDA and European Commission approved oral test indicated for the diagnosis of adult growth hormone deficiency (AGHD). Macimorelin is currently marketed in the United States under the tradename Macrilen™, through a license and assignment agreement with Novo Nordisk.
We are also leveraging the clinical success and compelling safety profile of macimorelin to develop it for the diagnosis of childhood-onset growth hormone deficiency (CGHD), an area of significant unmet need, in collaboration with Novo Nordisk.
Macimorelin, a ghrelin agonist, is an orally active small molecule that stimulates the secretion of growth hormone (GH) from the pituitary gland. Stimulated growth hormone levels are measured in blood samples after oral administration of macimorelin for the assessment of GHD.
American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists 2019 Guidelines
Commercial Rights
Aeterna is regaining rights to macimorelin (Macrilen™) in the United States and Canada in May 2023 and is engaged in robust business development efforts to identify and secure a new development and commercialization partner in these territories.
American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists 2019 Guidelines
“Because the macimorelin test is simple, well tolerated with minimal side effects, and of shorter duration with only 3 to 4 blood draws compared to other GH–stimulation tests, it is anticipated that its use will increase over time.”*
“Very promising test that is easy to conduct with high reproducibility, safety, and diagnostic accuracy comparable to the ITT and GHRH plus ARG test.”*
AACE 2019 Guidelines (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31760824/).
*AACE 2019 Guidelines: American Association Of Clinical Endocrinologists And American College Of Endocrinology Guidelines For Management Of Growth Hormone Deficiency In Adults And Patients Transitioning From Pediatric To Adult Care, 2019
Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency (AGHD)
Growth Hormone (GH) is Critical to Lifelong Health
Maintains Normal Body Stature and Regulates Metabolism
No single signs or symptoms, but recognized by:
• Metabolic syndrome
• Osteoporosis
• Muscle wasting
• Low physical/mental energy
• Impaired quality of life
Increased risk of:
• Cardiovascular (CV) issues
• Bone fractures
Adult Test Procedure (Macimorelin)
Growth hormone not only plays an important role in growth from childhood to adulthood, but also helps promote a hormonally balanced health status. AGHD most commonly results from damage to the pituitary gland. It is usually characterized by a reduction in bone mineral density, lean body mass, exercise capacity, and overall quality of life as well as an increase of cardiovascular risks.
AGHD may occur in an adult subject who has a history of childhood-onset growth hormone deficiency (CGHD) or may occur during adulthood as an acquired condition.
Number of Potential Tests Annually
28,000-62,000*
14,000-28,000*
*Navigant study 2009, TVG study 2017, Huron Consulting study 2018
In other areas of the world, the incidence and prevalence of AGHD are not known, and awareness and diagnosis remain low. GH not only plays an important role in growth from childhood to adulthood, but also helps promote a hormonally balanced health status. AGHD mostly results from damage to the pituitary gland, which can be caused by tumors, traumatic brain injury, brain infarction, radiation, or infections. It is usually characterized by a reduction in bone mineral density, lean body mass, exercise capacity, and overall quality of life as well as an increased cardiovascular risk profile.
No Physician Supervision Required
Nurse Administered
Fasted Patient
(at least 8 hours)
Patient Drinks Solution
1 ml (0.5 mg/kg)
per kg body weight
