GHRP-6
Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6 | Hexapeptide GHS
GHRP-6 is a synthetic growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. It was one of the first GHRPs developed and works by binding to the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a). Unlike direct HGH injections, GHRP-6 enhances the body's natural GH production while keeping negative feedback mechanisms balanced. It is known for its potent appetite-stimulating effects.
Mechanism of Action
GHRP-6 binds to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a), the same receptor activated by ghrelin. This initiates a signaling cascade in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, triggering a rapid pulse of natural GH secretion. The released GH then signals the liver to secrete IGF-1, which promotes muscle growth and fat metabolism. GHRP-6 also stimulates ghrelin release, causing significant appetite increase.
Key Benefits
- Potent stimulation of natural growth hormone release
- Significant increase in appetite (beneficial for bulking/weight gain)
- Enhanced muscle growth through elevated GH and IGF-1
- Improved fat metabolism and body composition
- Cardioprotective effects observed in research
- Enhanced recovery from exercise and injury
- Cytoprotective and anti-inflammatory properties
- Maintains natural GH pulsatile release
H?WAW?FK?Histidine
Position 1
D
Position 2
Tryptophan
Position 3
Alanine
Position 4
Tryptophan
Position 5
D
Position 6
Phenylalanine
Position 7
Lysine
Position 8
NH2
Position 9
Growth Hormone Enhancement
- GH Secretion
Potent stimulation of endogenous growth hormone release through ghrelin receptor activation.
- IGF-1 Elevation
Indirectly increases IGF-1 levels through enhanced GH secretion from the pituitary.
Body Composition
- Muscle Growth
Enhanced muscle protein synthesis through elevated growth hormone and IGF-1 levels.
- Appetite Stimulation
Significant increase in hunger through ghrelin pathway activation, beneficial for those needing to gain weight.
- Recovery Enhancement
Faster recovery from exercise and improved tissue repair.
Protective Effects
- Cardioprotection
Research indicates protective effects on cardiac tissue independent of GH release.
- Cytoprotection
Systemic cytoprotective effects with anti-inflammatory properties observed in liver and other organs.
- Antioxidant Effects
Attenuation of reactive oxygen species and preservation of antioxidant defenses.
Subcutaneous injection is the primary administration route. Must be administered on an empty stomach as elevated blood glucose or insulin significantly blunts GH release. Multiple daily doses recommended.
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| GH optimization | 100 mcg | 2-3x daily | SubQ |
| Enhanced results | 200-300 mcg | 2-3x daily | SubQ |
| With GHRH (synergy) | 100 mcg each | 2-3x daily | SubQ (combined) |
| Appetite/bulking | 100-200 mcg | Before meals | SubQ |
Reconstitution Instructions
- Bacteriostatic water (BAC)
- Insulin syringes (0.5-1 mL)
- Alcohol swabs
- Peptide vial
- Sterile work surface
- 1 Clean work area and hands thoroughly
- 2 Calculate required BAC water volume
- 3 Draw BAC water into syringe
- 4 Inject slowly down vial side (not directly onto powder)
- 5 Gently swirl until dissolved (never shake)
- 6 Store in refrigerator, use within 28 days
GHRH + GHRP combination produces synergistic GH release significantly greater than either alone.
Classic stack; GHRH amplifies GHRP-6's effects on growth hormone release.
Similar mechanism; GHRP-2 is more potent with less appetite stimulation.
Both are GHRPs; Ipamorelin has fewer side effects but is less potent.
No known negative interactions; often combined for recovery protocols.
Simultaneous administration may increase GH response, but carb consumption blunts GH release.
Intense hunger within 15-20 minutes; GH spike within 30 minutes
Improved sleep quality and increased appetite
Enhanced recovery and energy levels
Noticeable changes in body composition
Full benefits with improved muscle fullness and fat loss
Common Side Effects
- Intense hunger/increased appetite (most notable side effect)
- Water retention
- Tingling or numbness in extremities
- Tiredness or lethargy after injection
- Mild headache
Stop Signs - Discontinue if:
- Severe or persistent headaches
- Unusual swelling in hands or feet
- Signs of carpal tunnel syndrome
- Allergic reactions
- Hypoglycemia symptoms
Contraindications
- Active cancer or history of cancer
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Pituitary disorders
- Diabetes (use with caution)
- WADA prohibited for competitive athletes
Good Signs
- White to off-white lyophilized powder
- Clear solution after reconstitution
- Intact vacuum seal on vial
Warning Signs
- Slight clumping that dissolves with gentle swirling
Bad Signs
- Discolored or yellow powder
- Cloudy solution after reconstitution
- Particles or precipitates in solution
- Effects of GHRP-6 on Weight Gain and Fat MassEndocrinology (2010)
Significant differences in body composition, muscle growth, glucose metabolism, memory and cardiac function in mice administered GHRP-6.
- Synthetic Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptides: Cytoprotective EffectsClinical Medicine Insights: Cardiology (2017)
GHRP-6 demonstrated systemic cytoprotective effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and cardioprotective effects in multiple studies.
- GHRP-6 Clinical Safety TrialClinical Research (2015)
Intravenous administration proved safe in dose scale-up clinical trial in healthy human volunteers.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational and research purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional before use.