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GHRP-2 and GHRP-6: What the Evidence Actually Shows

Grade CNo US approval

The short version

  • First generation growth hormone releasing peptides, both acting on the ghrelin receptor.
  • Both reliably raise growth hormone in short term studies.
  • Both also raise cortisol and prolactin, which is why newer compounds were developed.
  • GHRP-6 in particular causes marked appetite stimulation.
  • No US approval for either.

Why these came first and why they were superseded

GHRP-6 and GHRP-2 were among the earliest synthetic growth hormone secretagogues, and they work in the narrow sense that they raise growth hormone. The problem is selectivity. Both also stimulate cortisol and prolactin release, and GHRP-6 produces strong hunger through the same ghrelin pathway.

Raising cortisol is directly counterproductive for most people using these, since it works against the recovery and body composition goals they are chasing. That is the pharmacological reason ipamorelin was developed, and it is why these two are largely of historical interest.

What the appetite effect actually means

GHRP-6 is sometimes marketed as useful for people struggling to eat enough. It does do that. Anyone using it while trying to lose fat is working against themselves, which is worth knowing before rather than after.

What this will not do

Related

Full library · Safety and sourcing · Reconstitution calculator · Compound index

Regulatory status current as of the page date. This area is changing quickly and this page is reviewed monthly. [set review reminder]