GHRP-2

Human Research

Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide 2

A synthetic ghrelin mimetic that strongly stimulates GH release. One of the original GHRPs with a robust research history.

SubQ injectionGrowth HormoneBody Composition

Dose

100-300 mcg

Route

SubQ injection

Cycle

8-12 weeks

Storage

Refrigerated (2-8°C / 36-46°F), protected from light

What is GHRP-2?

GHRP-2 is a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a potent secretagogue for growth hormone (GH). It functions as a ghrelin mimetic, binding to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR-1a) in the pituitary and hypothalamus, leading to a strong, dose-dependent release of GH. Research protocols often explore its potential in areas related to body composition, recovery, and aspects of aging. Unlike GHRH (Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone), GHRP-2 stimulates GH release through a distinct pathway, making it potentially synergistic when co-administered with GHRH analogs.

Key Benefits

  • Strong GH release
  • Appetite stimulation
  • Body composition improvement
  • IGF-1 increase

Mechanism of Action

  • Ghrelin receptor agonist
  • Stimulates pituitary GH secretion
  • Mild increase in cortisol and prolactin

Best For

  • GH optimization research
  • Body composition
  • Appetite research

Body Systems

EndocrineMusculoskeletal

🐾 Griffin Says...

GHRP-2 is a workhorse in the GH research space. Strong GH release, but like hexarelin, it also bumps cortisol and prolactin. The appetite-stimulating effect is intense, which matters depending on research goals.

Molecular Information

Molecular weight

817.9 g/mol

Length

6 amino acids

Type

Peptide

Amino acid sequence

D-Ala-D-2Nal-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2

Often seen as H-D-Ala-D-2Nal-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2. D-2Nal refers to D-beta-(2-naphthyl)-alanine.

Pharmacokinetics

Time to peak

15-30 minutes

Half-life

0.5 h

Time to clear

Approximately 2-3 hours

DoseEstimated plasma concentration3 h

Research literature consistently reports a short half-life for GHRP-2, often cited around 30 minutes in humans, necessitating multiple daily administrations for sustained effect.

Research Indications

  • Potent GH Release

    GHRP-2 is a strong agonist of the ghrelin receptor, leading to robust, dose-dependent release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland. This effect has been extensively demonstrated in numerous human and animal studies.

  • Ghrelin Mimetic Action

    It mimics the action of endogenous ghrelin, stimulating both GH release and often increasing appetite, making it a valuable tool for studying ghrelin pathways.

Research Protocols

GoalDoseFrequencyRoute
Maximizing Growth Hormone Pulsatility100 mcg3 times dailySubcutaneous injection
Enhanced Body Composition and Recovery200-300 mcg2-3 times daily (often pre-workout and pre-bed)Subcutaneous injection
Synergistic GH Release (with GHRH analog)50-100 mcg GHRP-22-3 times daily (co-administered with a GHRH analog like Mod GRF 1-29)Subcutaneous injection
Appetite Stimulation50-100 mcg1-2 times daily (prior to meals)Subcutaneous injection
Acute GH Response Measurement1 mcg/kg body weightSingle administrationIntravenous or Subcutaneous injection

Due to its short half-life, multiple daily administrations are commonly discussed in research protocols to maintain elevated GH pulses. Administration on an empty stomach is often suggested to maximize GH release and minimize potential attenuation by circulating fatty acids or glucose.

Peptide Interactions

  • Mod GRF 1-29 (CJC-1295 without DAC)

    When co-administered, GHRP-2 and Mod GRF 1-29 (or other GHRH analogs) stimulate GH release through distinct mechanisms, leading to a synergistic increase in pulsatile GH secretion that is significantly greater than either peptide alone.

    Synergistic
  • CJC-1295 with DAC

    Similar to Mod GRF 1-29, co-administration with CJC-1295 with DAC (which provides a prolonged GHRH signal) can lead to enhanced and sustained GH release when combined with GHRP-2's pulsatile stimulation.

    Synergistic
  • Somatostatin (Growth Hormone Inhibiting Hormone)

    Somatostatin inhibits GH release. While GHRP-2 can overcome some somatostatin inhibition, excessively high somatostatin levels may attenuate GHRP-2's effects. GHRP-2 itself can suppress endogenous somatostatin.

    Use Caution
  • High glucose or fatty acid levels

    Research suggests that elevated blood glucose or free fatty acid levels can blunt the GH response to GHRPs. Therefore, administration on an empty stomach is commonly discussed to maximize efficacy.

    Use Caution
  • Corticosteroids

    Chronic use of high-dose corticosteroids can suppress GH secretion and may potentially reduce the effectiveness of GHRP-2. Monitoring of GH response is advised.

    Use Caution
  • Insulin

    Insulin and GH have opposing effects on glucose metabolism. While GHRP-2 indirectly increases GH, which can transiently increase insulin resistance, careful monitoring of blood glucose is prudent when combining with insulin, especially in susceptible individuals.

    Monitor Combination

How to Reconstitute

  1. 1Gather materials: lyophilized GHRP-2 vial, bacteriostatic water for injection (BWFI), sterile syringe, alcohol wipes.
  2. 2Remove the cap from the GHRP-2 vial and wipe the rubber stopper with an alcohol wipe.
  3. 3Draw the desired amount of BWFI into the sterile syringe (e.g., 1mL per 5mg vial for a common concentration).
  4. 4Slowly inject the BWFI into the GHRP-2 vial, aiming the stream at the side of the vial to avoid direct forceful contact with the peptide powder.
  5. 5Do not shake the vial. Gently swirl the vial to facilitate dissolution of the peptide. If necessary, allow it to sit in a refrigerator for a short period to fully dissolve.
  6. 6Once fully dissolved, the solution should be clear. Store the reconstituted peptide in the refrigerator.

Proper sterile technique is critical during reconstitution to maintain peptide integrity and prevent contamination. Bacteriostatic water for injection (BWFI) is commonly preferred for multi-dose vials.

What to Expect

  • Weeks 1-2: Acute increase in GH levels will be observed shortly after injection. Some researchers note increased appetite and potentially improved sleep quality.
  • Weeks 3-4: Initial subtle changes in body composition may begin, such as feeling 'tighter' or improved recovery post-exertion. Appetite stimulation often continues.
  • Weeks 5-8: More noticeable improvements in body composition, including potential reductions in fat mass and increases in lean body mass, are commonly reported in research.
  • Weeks 9-12: Peak benefits in body composition and recovery are typically observed. Consistent administration is key for sustained effects.
  • Post-cycle: A return to baseline GH levels and a gradual reversal of some benefits may occur, depending on individual physiology and lifestyle factors.

Side Effects & Safety

EffectFrequencySeverity
Increased appetite (significant)Very CommonMild
Water retentionCommonMild
Increased cortisolCommonMild

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Peptides discussed here are for research purposes only. Nothing on this page is medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making health decisions.