The evidence on peptides — delivered weekly. Subscribe free →

Ghrelin

low risk

Also: Hunger hormone · Obestatin precursor · GHSR-1a agonist

Strong Evidence Research Only

Reference entry for native ghrelin — the endogenous hunger hormone produced primarily by gastric X/A cells. Acts on GHS-R1a (ghrelin receptor) to stimulate appetite and GH release. All GHRPs (GHRP-2, GHRP-6, ipamorelin, hexarelin) mimic ghrelin at this receptor. Not used therapeutically as native peptide due to short half-life.

Molecular Weight
1009.2 Da
Formula
C49H66N12O10S
Common Dosing
Not used therapeutically in native form (2-min half-life)
Category
research
Last Reviewed
2025-01-15

Reported Benefits

Appetite/hunger signaling

Strong Evidence 450 studies

Foundational endocrine physiology. GHS-R1a is the drug target for the entire GHRP class.

GH secretion

Strong Evidence 200 studies

Co-stimulator of GH release; basis for entire GHRP/secretagogue drug class.

Mechanism of Action

Endogenous GHS-R1a agonist; stimulates appetite via hypothalamic NPY/AgRP neurons; stimulates GH release from pituitary; promotes adipogenesis; modulates blood glucose.

Why Ghrelin Matters for Peptide Research

Understanding native ghrelin physiology is essential for understanding the entire GH secretagogue class. Every GHRP (GHRP-2, GHRP-6, ipamorelin, hexarelin, MK-677) acts on the ghrelin receptor. The differences between them are selectivity, potency, and off-target effects — all relative to native ghrelin’s pharmacological profile.

Regulatory Status

Research Only

Safety Profile

Side Effects

  • •Not applicable as endogenous hormone

Contraindications

  • •N/A

Primary Uses

Educational referenceAppetite stimulationGH secretionMetabolic regulation

Related Peptides

ghrp-2ghrp-6ipamorelinmk-677hexarelin

Weekly Briefing

Regulatory updates + new study breakdowns.

For Practitioners

Do you prescribe Ghrelin?

Get in front of patients who've already researched this protocol and are ready to consult. Featured listings from $199/mo.

Get Listed →
Disclaimer: This information is for educational and research purposes only. Not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any compound.