Is NGF approved as a medicine, and where?

The regulatory review of NGF is incomplete. See the article's sources for product- and country-specific findings and remaining uncertainties. Review status means neither worldwide approval nor worldwide absence of approval.

What is NGF studied for?

NGF is most often discussed in the context of cognition, mood & sleep. Being studied for an area does not mean it is proven or approved for it.

Does NGF have human clinical trials?

The evidence review of NGF is in progress. The article's study appraisal identifies any human studies located and their limitations. An ongoing review does not itself mean that human studies are absent.

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Nootropic & Neuropeptides

NGF

1 min read · Updated September 14, 2026 · 2 references

Curated by PeptideInfo Wikilast reviewed September 14, 2026how we verify

Explored forCognition, mood & sleep

NGF, nerve growth factor, is an endogenous protein important for sensory and sympathetic neurons.

Body & signals →

No receptor relationship mapped here yet. This does not mean the molecule has no biological effects.

Review pending

Contents3

Section 1 of 3What is it?

What is it?

NGF, nerve growth factor, is an endogenous protein important for sensory and sympathetic neurons. Mature NGF interacts with TrkA (NTRK1) and p75 (NGFR). Its precursor proNGF can have different biological effects, depending on the receptor complex and experimental context. C01 (opens in a new tab)

Section 2 of 3What was studied?

What was studied?

A randomized, placebo-controlled early human study tested single systemic doses of recombinant human NGF in healthy volunteers. Muscle pain varied with dose. Subcutaneous administration caused local increased pain sensitivity that could persist for weeks. This was a safety and biological-response experiment, not evidence of cognitive improvement. C02 (opens in a new tab)

Section 3 of 3What does the result mean?

What does the result mean?

The route and formulation belong to the evidence. A result after systemic recombinant NGF cannot simply be assigned to a nasal product, an eye preparation or a substance said to increase NGF. The study also shows why a protein that supports neurons can still cause unwanted effects when administered. C03 (opens in a new tab)

References2

References

1.
UniProt P01138 — human nerve growth factor source
2.
Petty et al., 1994 — systemic recombinant human NGF in healthy volunteers source

Frequently asked questions4

Frequently asked questions

What is NGF?: NGF, nerve growth factor, is an endogenous protein important for sensory and sympathetic neurons.
Is NGF approved as a medicine, and where?: The regulatory review of NGF is incomplete. See the article's sources for product- and country-specific findings and remaining uncertainties. Review status means neither worldwide approval nor worldwide absence of approval.
What is NGF studied for?: NGF is most often discussed in the context of cognition, mood & sleep. Being studied for an area does not mean it is proven or approved for it.
Does NGF have human clinical trials?: The evidence review of NGF is in progress. The article's study appraisal identifies any human studies located and their limitations. An ongoing review does not itself mean that human studies are absent.

Educational disclaimer. This article summarizes published research for informational purposes and is not medical advice. The editorial review of NGF is incomplete. Source-supported findings and remaining uncertainties are stated in the article; review status does not certify approval, safety or suitability for use. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.