GHRP-2
Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2 · Pralmorelin
GHRP-2 is a synthetic growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. It is one of the most potent members of the GHRP family, being 2-3 times more effective than GHRP-6 in stimulating GH release. Originally developed as a diagnostic agent for growth hormone deficiency, it works by mimicking ghrelin and binding to the GHS-R1a receptor.
Overview
GHRP-2 is a synthetic growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. It is one of the most potent members of the GHRP family, being 2-3 times more effective than GHRP-6 in stimulating GH release. Originally developed as a diagnostic agent for growth hormone deficiency, it works by mimicking ghrelin and binding to the GHS-R1a receptor.
GHRP-2 acts as a synthetic agonist of ghrelin, binding to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a) in the hypothalamus and pituitary. This stimulates cAMP production and promotes pulsatile release of endogenous growth hormone without suppressing natural feedback loops. It works synergistically with GHRH to amplify GH secretion beyond what either peptide achieves alone.
Research indications
What the compound has been studied for, grouped by body system. Effect size is the reported magnitude where it was measured — not a recommendation.
Used as a diagnostic agent in Japan for assessing growth hormone deficiency in clinical settings.
Stimulates endogenous growth hormone release through ghrelin receptor activation.
Indirectly increases IGF-1 levels through enhanced GH secretion.
Enhanced muscle protein synthesis through elevated growth hormone and IGF-1 levels.
Improved lipolysis and body composition through GH-mediated fat oxidation.
Faster recovery from exercise and improved sleep quality.
Myoprotective effects in muscle atrophy models through GHS-R1a stimulation.
Cytoprotective effects observed in cardiac tissue research.
A large effect in a weak study and a small effect in a strong one are different things. Effect size is never evidence of use in people.
- Class
- Synthetic hexapeptide
- Chain length
- 6 residues
- Molecular weight
- 817.9 Da
- Half-life
- ~30 min
- Typical dose
- 100-300 mcg
- Frequency
- 2-3x daily
- Cycle length
- 8-12 weeks
- Storage
- 2-8°C refrigerated
Molecular data
- Type
- Synthetic hexapeptide
- Molecular weight
- 817.9 Da
- Chain length
- 6 residues
- Half-life
- 30 min
Dosing reference
Doses reported in the literature and by suppliers. These are a record of what has been used in research — reference, never instruction.
| Context | Route | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| GH optimization | SubQ | 100-150 mcg | 2-3x daily |
| Enhanced results | SubQ | 200-300 mcg | 2-3x daily |
| With GHRH (synergy) | SubQ (combined) | 100 mcg each | 2-3x daily |
| Pre-sleep protocol | SubQ | 100-200 mcg | Before bed |
Interactions
Powerful synergy; GHRH + GHRP combination amplifies GH release significantly.
Classic GHRP + GHRH stack for enhanced growth hormone release.
Both are GHRPs; can be alternated but typically not stacked together.
Similar mechanism; GHRP-2 is more potent with less appetite stimulation.
No known negative interactions; different mechanisms.
Quality checklist
- ✓White to off-white lyophilized powder
- ✓Clear solution after reconstitution
- ✓Intact vacuum seal on vial
- !Slight clumping that dissolves easily
- ×Discolored or yellow powder
- ×Cloudy solution after reconstitution
- ×Particles or precipitates in solution
What to expect
Safety
- Increased appetite (less than GHRP-6)
- Mild water retention
- Tingling or numbness in extremities
- Tiredness or lethargy after injection
- Mild headache
- Severe or persistent headaches
- Unusual swelling in hands or feet
- Signs of carpal tunnel syndrome
- Allergic reactions
- Active cancer or history of cancer
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Pituitary disorders
- Diabetic retinopathy
- WADA prohibited for competitive athletes
FAQ
Is GHRP-2 stronger than GHRP-6 for stimulating growth hormone?
Yes, GHRP-2 is 2-3 times more potent than GHRP-6 at stimulating GH release. However, GHRP-2 causes less appetite stimulation than GHRP-6, making it more tolerable for those sensitive to hunger effects. The trade-off is strength versus side effects—GHRP-2 is more powerful with fewer appetite issues.
How much should I dose GHRP-2 with an empty stomach requirement?
Standard GHRP-2 dosing is 100-300mcg, 2-3 times daily on a completely empty stomach (2+ hours after eating). Wait 30 minutes after injection before consuming food to optimize GH release. Best timing is morning upon waking, post-workout, and bedtime when natural GH is already elevated.
Will GHRP-2 cause elevated cortisol like some sources suggest?
At recommended doses (100-300mcg), GHRP-2 rarely elevates cortisol significantly. However, very high doses (>300mcg) or frequent dosing can increase cortisol. Most side effects are manageable water retention and appetite, with cortisol elevation primarily a concern with dose escalation beyond therapeutic ranges.
Can I use GHRP-2 if I'm diabetic or glucose-sensitive?
GHRP-2 can modestly affect glucose metabolism through GH's insulin-antagonistic effects. Diabetic users require careful monitoring and possible insulin adjustment. For glucose-sensitive individuals, monitor blood sugar before, during, and after use. Medical supervision is recommended, particularly with insulin-dependent diabetes.