Overview
GHRP-6 is classified as a ghrp peptide. Potent GH release, appetite stimulation, muscle growth, recovery, gastric motility.
Synthetic hexapeptide that stimulates GH release by acting on the ghrelin/GHS receptor (GHSR1a) in the pituitary and hypothalamus. Unlike Ipamorelin, GHRP-6 is non-selective and also stimulates appetite (via ghrelin mimicry), raises cortisol and prolactin modestly, and has notable gastric motility effects. One of the earliest and most well-studied GH secretagogues.
Also known as: Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6, His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2
Category
GHRP
Half-Life
2.5h
Route
SubQ
FDA Status
Not Approved
How Does GHRP-6 Work?
Synthetic hexapeptide that stimulates GH release by acting on the ghrelin/GHS receptor (GHSR1a) in the pituitary and hypothalamus. Unlike Ipamorelin, GHRP-6 is non-selective and also stimulates appetite (via ghrelin mimicry), raises cortisol and prolactin modestly, and has notable gastric motility effects. One of the earliest and most well-studied GH secretagogues.
At the molecular level, GHRP-6 operates through pathways characteristic of the GHRP class, interacting with target receptors and downstream signaling cascades to produce its observed effects.
Published Research
The following studies are indexed from PubMed and peer-reviewed journals:
[1]GHRP-6 dose-dependent GH release in humans
Bowers et al. (Endocrine Reviews): Comprehensive characterization of GHRP-6 showing dose-dependent GH release in humans with peak response at 1-2mcg/kg IV. Established GHRP-6 as the prototype GH secretagogue.
Evidence: moderate[2]GHRP-6 synergy with GHRH for amplified GH release
Combined GHRP-6 + GHRH produces synergistic GH release 3-5x greater than either peptide alone, demonstrating distinct receptor mechanisms.
Evidence: moderate[3]GHRP-6 cardioprotective effects in ischemia models
Berlanga et al.: GHRP-6 demonstrates significant cardioprotective effects in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury models, reducing infarct size and oxidative damage independent of GH release.
Evidence: preclinical[4]GHRP-6 stimulates gastric motility and appetite
Study confirms GHRP-6 activates ghrelin receptors in the GI tract, increasing gastric emptying rate and appetite. Clinically relevant for cachexia/wasting conditions.
Evidence: moderateSafety Profile
Well-studied but less selective than Ipamorelin. Raises cortisol (~15-20% transient) and prolactin modestly. Strong appetite stimulation can be a benefit (cachexia) or side effect (body composition goals). Not FDA-approved.
| Side Effect | Incidence | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Intense hunger / appetite surge | ~60-80% of users | moderate |
| Water retention | ~20% of users | mild |
| Cortisol elevation (transient) | ~15% of users | mild |
| Tingling / numbness | ~8% of users | mild |
| Headache | ~5% of users | mild |
Sourcing GHRP-6 for Research
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Full Research Profile
GHRP-6 — dosing, interactions, timelines & more
Comprehensive compound profile with sourcing information, stacking synergies, and outcome timelines.