AOD-9604
Clinical TrialsGrowth Hormone Releasing Peptide 6
A modified fragment of human growth hormone (amino acids 176-191) studied for fat metabolism. It holds FDA GRAS status as a food ingredient, which is not the same as FDA approval as a drug.
Dose
300-500 mcg
Route
SubQ injection, Oral
Cycle
8-12 weeks
Storage
Refrigerate at 2-8°C (36-46°F), protected from light
What is AOD-9604?
Important distinction: AOD-9604 has been granted GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status as a food ingredient. GRAS is a food-additive designation and is NOT FDA approval as a drug for any medical indication. AOD-9604 is not an FDA-approved medication, and its human obesity trials did not demonstrate significant weight loss versus placebo. GHRP-6 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide 6) is a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a potent secretagogue of growth hormone (GH) by binding to the ghrelin receptor. It is often investigated for its potential role in stimulating GH release from the pituitary gland, which in turn can influence body composition, muscle growth, and fat metabolism. Unlike GHRH (Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone), GHRP-6 stimulates GH release via a different pathway, independent of GHRH, and can also act synergistically with GHRH. Research commonly discusses its impact on appetite stimulation, likely due to its interaction with ghrelin receptors.
Key Benefits
- Stimulates fat breakdown
- Inhibits fat formation
- Targets stubborn fat deposits
- Does not raise IGF-1 or affect insulin
Mechanism of Action
- Mimics fat-regulating properties of GH
- Stimulates lipolysis
- Inhibits lipogenesis
- No effect on IGF-1 or insulin
Best For
- Fat loss research
- Body composition
- Metabolic research
Body Systems

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Molecular Information
Molecular weight
873.0 g/mol
Length
6 amino acids
Type
Growth Hormone Secretagogue (GHRP)
Amino acid sequence
His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2
Hexapeptide with D-amino acids, specifically D-Trp and D-Phe, which contribute to its stability and activity.
Pharmacokinetics
Time to peak
10-20 minutes post-injection
Half-life
2.5 h
Time to clear
Approximately 4-6 hours
Thorner, M. O., et al. (1993). "Growth hormone-releasing peptide-6: A novel synthetic hexapeptide with potent growth hormone-releasing activity." Neuroendocrinology, 57(5), 785-794.
Research Indications
Stimulation of Endogenous GH Secretion
GHRP-6 is a potent secretagogue, widely studied for its ability to stimulate the pituitary gland to release growth hormone, mimicking the action of ghrelin. This effect is independent of GHRH.
Synergistic GH Release with GHRH
Research indicates that GHRP-6 acts synergistically with Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH) or GHRH analogs, leading to a significantly greater pulsatile release of GH than either compound alone.
Research Protocols
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| General GH Secretion & Body Composition | 100-300 mcg | 2-3 times daily | Subcutaneous injection |
| Enhanced Appetite Stimulation | 200-500 mcg | 1-2 times daily before main meals | Subcutaneous injection |
| Synergistic GH Release (with GHRH analog) | 50-150 mcg GHRP-6 + 50-100 mcg GHRH analog | 2-3 times daily | Subcutaneous injection |
| Initial Phase Protocol | 50-100 mcg | 2 times daily | Subcutaneous injection |
| Maximum GH Pulsatility | 100-200 mcg | 3 times daily (e.g., morning, post-workout, pre-bed) | Subcutaneous injection |
GHRP-6 is commonly discussed in research protocols for administration on an empty stomach to maximize its effect on GH release and minimize potential attenuation by elevated glucose or fatty acid levels. Multiple daily administrations are often used to maintain elevated GH pulsatility.
Peptide Interactions
- Synergistic
GHRH Analogs (e.g., CJC-1295, Sermorelin)
Combination use is commonly discussed in research for significantly enhanced GH pulsatility due to their distinct mechanisms of action on GH release. Often co-administered.
- Monitor Combination
Insulin
Insulin may blunt GH release. Research protocols often administer GHRP-6 on an empty stomach, away from insulin or carbohydrate intake, to maximize GH response. Caution is advised for those managing blood sugar.
- Avoid
Somatostatin Analogues
Somatostatin inhibits GH release. Co-administration would counteract the primary effect of GHRP-6. Therefore, these are typically avoided in research protocols.
- Use Caution
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids can reduce the body's natural GH secretion. While not a direct interaction, they may reduce the efficacy of GHRP-6, requiring researchers to note potential attenuation of effects.
- Monitor Combination
Foods/Nutrients (especially carbohydrates/fats)
Ingestion of food, particularly carbohydrates and fats, can attenuate GH release stimulated by GHRP-6. Research protocols often specify administration on an empty stomach (30-60 minutes before meals or 2-3 hours after).
- Use Caution
Other GH Secretagogues (e.g., Ipamorelin, GHRP-2)
While theoretically they could be combined, research protocols typically focus on one GHRP at a time to isolate effects. Combining multiple GHRPs may not yield significantly greater benefits and could increase side effects.
How to Reconstitute
- 1Gather supplies: GHRP-6 vial, bacteriostatic water (BAC water), sterile insulin syringe, alcohol wipes.
- 2Clean the rubber stopper of the GHRP-6 vial and the BAC water vial with alcohol wipes.
- 3Draw the desired amount of BAC water into the syringe (e.g., 1ml for 5mg vial, resulting in 5mg/ml concentration).
- 4Slowly inject the BAC water into the GHRP-6 vial, directing it down the side of the vial to avoid direct impact on the powder.
- 5Do not shake the vial. Gently swirl the vial between your palms for several minutes to allow the powder to dissolve completely. If necessary, place in a refrigerator for a short period and swirl again.
- 6Once fully dissolved, the solution should be clear and free of particles. Store as directed.
Handle the lyophilized powder gently. Avoid shaking the vial vigorously during reconstitution to prevent denaturation of the peptide.
What to Expect
- Weeks 1-2: Researchers often report initial increases in appetite and potentially improved sleep quality. Some may observe subtle improvements in energy levels.
- Weeks 3-6: More noticeable improvements in body composition, such as increased lean muscle mass and decreased fat mass, may become apparent in research subjects. Enhanced recovery from exercise is also commonly discussed.
- Weeks 7-12: Significant changes in body composition are typically observed, with sustained improvements in muscle strength, endurance, and overall physical performance. Researchers may document continued fat loss.
- Post-cycle: Benefits may gradually diminish if administration is discontinued, highlighting the need for sustained research protocols to maintain effects.
- Individual responses vary widely among research subjects due to genetic factors, diet, and training regimens.
Side Effects & Safety
| Effect | Frequency | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Headache | Uncommon | Mild |
| Injection site irritation | Common | Mild |
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Open CalculatorPeptides discussed here are for research purposes only. Nothing on this page is medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making health decisions.