Stable, aqueous pharmaceutical formulations of human nerve growth factor (NGF) in aqueous isotonic solutions, buffered to maintain the pH from about 4.5 to about 6.0, and optionnally containing a carrier such as human serum albumin are provided. Also provided are aqueous NGF formulations suitable for lyophilization and subsequent reconstitution in which rhNGF is admixed with sugars, optionally HSA, and buffer. The formulations are useful for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and other neuronal disorders.