GHRP-2
Dosage Protocol
GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide-2) is a synthetic hexapeptide and potent agonist of the ghrelin/GHS-R1a receptor. It produces strong, dose-dependent GH release from the anterior pituitary. GHRP-2 is more potent than GHRP-6 and produces less hunger stimulation, but does cause some elevation of cortisol and prolactin — more than Ipamorelin but less than GHRP-6 or Hexarelin.
What is GHRP-2?
GHRP-2 is a synthetic hexapeptide analog of ghrelin that binds GHS-R1a receptors in the pituitary and hypothalamus, triggering robust GH release. It was one of the first GHRPs extensively studied in human clinical trials. A saturation dose of 100 mcg produces near-maximal GH response; doses above this increase side effects without proportionally increasing GH.
The compound occupies a position between Ipamorelin (cleanest profile) and Hexarelin (most potent) in the GHRP family. It elevates cortisol and prolactin to a modest degree, making it less ideal for long cycles compared to Ipamorelin but more tolerable than older GHRPs. It is commonly combined with a GHRH analog (CJC-1295 No DAC or Sermorelin) for synergistic GH release.
Dosing Schedule
Parameters documented in published preclinical and clinical research.
| Phase | Dose | Frequency | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Start | 50–100 mcg | Once daily (bedtime) | Days 1–7 | Fasted SubQ. 100 mcg is the approximate saturation dose. |
| Working dose | 100 mcg | 2× daily | Weeks 2–8 | AM fasted + bedtime. Stack with CJC-1295 No DAC 1:1. |
| Advanced | 100 mcg | 3× daily | Weeks 3–12 | Third dose post-workout. Doses above 100 mcg rarely add GH. |
| Off cycle | — | — | 4 weeks | Prevent receptor desensitization before restarting. |
Safety & Side Effects
Academic References
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[1]
Arvat E, et al. (1997). Stimulatory effect of adrenal androgens on the GH-releasing activity of GHRP-2 in humans. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 82(7):2239–45. PubMed ↗
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[2]
Bowers CY. (1998). Growth hormone-releasing peptide (GHRP). Cell Mol Life Sci. 54(12):1316–29. PubMed ↗
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[3]
Nass R, et al. (2008). Effects of an oral ghrelin mimetic on body composition in healthy older adults. Ann Intern Med. 149(9):601–11. PubMed ↗
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[4]
Veldhuis JD, et al. (1997). Dual defects in pulsatile GH secretion and clearance subserve the hyposomatotropism of obesity. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 80(12):3532–8. PubMed ↗