Hexarelin

Human clinical Growth Hormone 3 sources

Hexarelin is a potent, synthetic hexapeptide and growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) that stimulates the release of growth hormone. Research indicates it is one of the strongest GH-releasing peptides available, offering potential benefits for muscle growth, fat loss, and cardiovascular health without significantly increasing appetite.

01Dosing reference

Amount

100-200 mcg per dose

Frequency

1-2 times daily

Cycle

4-6 weeks on, followed by 2-4 weeks off to prevent desensitization

Reference figures, not a recommendationThese values reflect amounts described in the literature and vendor documentation this database indexes. Use the reconstitution calculator to convert them into syringe units.

02Mechanism of action

Ghrelin Receptor Activation

Hexarelin binds to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR1a) in the pituitary gland and hypothalamus.

Growth Hormone Release

This activation triggers a pulsatile release of growth hormone (GH) into the bloodstream, independent of the body's natural somatostatin levels.

Cardioprotective Action

Hexarelin also binds to CD36 receptors in cardiac tissue, which research suggests may protect heart cells from ischemic injury and improve cardiac function.

03Human evidence

Significant dose-dependent increase in growth hormone levels.

Clinical studies in healthy adults and children with GH deficiency showed Hexarelin strongly stimulates GH release, often more potently than GH-releasing hormone (GHRH).

Prolactin and cortisol elevation.

Human trials noted that Hexarelin administration transiently increases serum prolactin and cortisol levels, though typically within safe physiological ranges.

04Preclinical evidence

Protection against ischemic heart damage.

In rodent models of myocardial infarction, Hexarelin reduced infarct size and improved left ventricular function, likely via CD36 receptor binding.

Prevention of muscle wasting.

Animal studies demonstrate that Hexarelin can mitigate muscle atrophy induced by glucocorticoids or denervation, promoting muscle preservation.

05What is known vs. unknown

Reasonably established

Hexarelin is one of the most potent growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs).
Unlike GHRP-6, Hexarelin does not typically induce a strong hunger response.
It has unique cardioprotective properties mediated through CD36 receptors.
Prolonged use may lead to receptor desensitization, reducing its GH-releasing efficacy over time.

Unknowns & limits

The long-term safety and effects of chronic Hexarelin use in humans remain largely unstudied.
The exact clinical relevance of its cardioprotective effects observed in animals needs further validation in human trials.
Optimal cycling protocols to prevent receptor desensitization are based on anecdotal evidence rather than rigorous clinical data.

06Safety & regulatory context

Regulatory statusHexarelin is generally well-tolerated in short-term clinical studies, with common side effects including flushing, mild lethargy, and temporary increases in prolactin and cortisol levels. Due to its potency, prolonged use can lead to pituitary desensitization, meaning it loses its effectiveness if not cycled properly. It is not approved by the FDA for human use and is classified as an investigational research chemical. It is also banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) for use in competitive sports.

07Compared with GHRP-6

Hexarelin vs. GHRP-6

Key difference

Hexarelin is generally more potent at stimulating GH release and does not cause the intense hunger side effect commonly associated with GHRP-6.

When researchers discuss each

Researchers discuss GHRP-6 when appetite stimulation is desired alongside GH release, whereas Hexarelin is preferred when maximum GH pulse and cardiovascular benefits are the focus without altering appetite.

08Glossary

Growth Hormone Secretagogue (GHS)

A substance that signals the pituitary gland to secrete growth hormone.

GHSR1a

The ghrelin receptor, which is the primary target for GH-releasing peptides to stimulate growth hormone release.

CD36 Receptor

A receptor found on various cells, including heart tissue, which Hexarelin binds to, potentially offering protective effects to the heart.

Desensitization

A reduction in response to a compound after prolonged exposure, requiring a break or 'cycle' to restore sensitivity.

09Knowledge check

Q1Which unique property distinguishes Hexarelin from many other growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs)?

Q2Why is it commonly recommended to cycle Hexarelin rather than use it continuously?

Q3Which statement best reflects the evidence for Hexarelin's cardioprotective effects?

Q4According to the dossier, in which research context would Hexarelin generally be preferred over GHRP-6?

Q5Which statement accurately summarizes Hexarelin's safety and regulatory status as given in the dossier?

10Sources

More in Growth Hormone

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Sermorelin

Growth Hormone

FDA-approved context

Sermorelin is a synthetic peptide consisting of the first 29 amino acids of naturally occurring growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It stimulates the pituitary gland to naturally produce and release human growth hormone (hGH), making it a subject of research for age-related growth hormone decline, body composition, and vitality.

200-500 mcg/day

Tesamorelin

Growth Hormone

FDA-approved context

Tesamorelin is a synthetic analogue of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) that stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete growth hormone. It is FDA-approved for reducing excess visceral abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy and is being researched for potential cognitive benefits.

2 mg/day

GHRP-6

Growth Hormone

Human clinical

GHRP-6 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6) is a synthetic hexapeptide that stimulates the release of endogenous growth hormone from the pituitary gland. Research shows it can increase appetite, promote muscle growth, and aid in fat loss by mimicking the action of ghrelin.

100-300 mcg per injection

Research and educational use onlyNothing on this site is medical advice, a prescription, or a recommendation for human use. Compounds documented here are research chemicals. Consult a qualified clinician before making any health decision.