GHRP-6
Dosage Protocol
GHRP-6 (Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide-6) is a synthetic hexapeptide and one of the earliest and most studied GHRPs. It binds ghrelin receptors to stimulate robust GH release but is known for its pronounced appetite-stimulating effect — a significant differentiator from newer GHRPs. It remains widely used in GH optimization research.
What is GHRP-6?
GHRP-6 is a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a ghrelin mimetic, binding GHS-R1a receptors in the pituitary gland and hypothalamus to trigger GH release. The compound's saturation dose is approximately 100 mcg — beyond which additional GH release is minimal but appetite stimulation and side effects continue to increase.
Unlike Ipamorelin and GHRP-2, GHRP-6 produces robust appetite stimulation through ghrelin-pathway activation. This can be considered a benefit for researchers studying caloric intake enhancement, or a drawback for those prioritizing body composition. It also elevates cortisol and prolactin more than newer GHRPs. It remains one of the foundational compounds in GHRP research with decades of published data.
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. Expect significant appetite increase after injection. |
| Working dose | 100 mcg | 2× daily | Weeks 2–8 | AM fasted + bedtime. Stack with CJC-1295 No DAC. Saturation dose — above 100 mcg adds minimal GH. |
| Advanced | 100–300 mcg | 3× daily | Weeks 3–12 | Third dose post-workout. Some protocols use up to 300 mcg 3× daily for ghrelin and appetite research. |
| Off cycle | — | — | 4 weeks | Off period to prevent receptor desensitization. |
Safety & Side Effects
Academic References
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[1]
Bowers CY, et al. (1984). On the in vitro and in vivo activity of a new synthetic hexapeptide that acts on the pituitary to specifically release GH. Endocrinology. 114(5):1537–45. PubMed ↗
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[2]
Frieboes RM, et al. (1995). Growth hormone-releasing peptide-6 stimulates sleep, GH, ACTH and cortisol release in normal man. Neuroendocrinology. 61(5):584–9. PubMed ↗
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[3]
Arvat E, et al. (1997). GHRP-2 and GHRP-6 exhibit similar stimulatory effects on GH, ACTH and cortisol in normal subjects. Eur J Endocrinol. 136(4):369–74. PubMed ↗
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[4]
Bowers CY. (1998). Growth hormone-releasing peptide (GHRP). Cell Mol Life Sci. 54(12):1316–29. PubMed ↗