GHRP-2
unknown riskAlso: Pralmorelin · KP-102 · GH-Releasing Peptide-2
GHRP-2 is a synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue with potent GH-releasing activity. It is one of the most studied GHRPs, with established human pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data, though no FDA approval for therapeutic use.
Reported Benefits
GH Release
Robust GH secretion demonstrated across multiple human studies and age groups.
Body Composition
Extrapolated from GH physiology; no direct human RCT data for body composition.
Appetite Stimulation
Significant appetite increase via ghrelin receptor mechanism — notable effect vs ipamorelin.
Mechanism of Action
GHRP-2 binds the ghrelin receptor (GHSR) on pituitary somatotrophs and hypothalamic neurons, triggering GH release. It also stimulates ACTH/cortisol release more potently than GHRP-6 or ipamorelin. Combined with GHRH analogs, it produces synergistic GH secretion through complementary receptor pathways.
Key Clinical Studies
Bowers CY et al. (1991)
pharmacodynamic · Healthy adults
Potent dose-dependent GH release; first characterization of GHRP class
Hartman ML et al. (1992)
crossover RCT · 24 adults
GHRP-2 + GHRH synergistically increases GH release
Overview
GHRP-2 is the most studied and characterized GHRP class peptide. Originally developed as a pharmacological tool for studying GH secretion, it established the proof-of-concept that small synthetic peptides could robustly stimulate GH release — a finding that eventually led to the development of ipamorelin and oral secretagogues like MK-677.
The GHRP Class Pioneer
The Bowers laboratory at Tulane University characterized GHRP-2 in the early 1990s, establishing the synthetic peptide GH secretagogue concept. This work won Cyril Bowers significant recognition and directly influenced the pharmaceutical development of the GH secretagogue class.
Cortisol Concern
GHRP-2’s significant cortisol stimulation (via ACTH) is a clinical consideration. Cortisol is catabolic, and its elevation partially counteracts the anabolic/body composition benefits of GH secretion. This is why ipamorelin (much lower cortisol stimulation) has largely supplanted GHRP-2 in clinical anti-aging protocols.
Appetite Effect
GHRP-2 potently stimulates appetite — a direct ghrelin-mimetic effect. This is a feature in cachectic patients (cancer, HIV wasting) but a problem for patients pursuing weight management. This characteristic further differentiates it from ipamorelin in clinical selection.
Regulatory Status
Research OnlyNot FDA-approved; previously used as diagnostic agent in some countries
Safety Profile
Side Effects
- •Increased appetite
- •Cortisol elevation
- •Prolactin elevation
- •Water retention
- •Flushing
Contraindications
- •Active malignancy
- •Pregnancy
- •Diabetes (GH increases insulin resistance)
Drug Interactions
- •Insulin
- •Glucocorticoids
- •Somatostatin analogs
Primary Uses
Related Peptides
Weekly Briefing
Regulatory updates + new study breakdowns.
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