Peptide Protocol

GHRP-6: the original GHRP — appetite and all.

First-generation growth hormone-releasing peptide. Potent GH stimulation with significant hunger induction. Classic bodybuilding peptide.

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peppercalc.com · research use only
100–300 mcg
Per Dose
8–12 wks on / 4 off
Cycle
SubQ
Route
2–3× daily
Frequency
Overview

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.

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GHS-R1a Agonism
Potently binds ghrelin receptors in pituitary somatotrophs and hypothalamic neurons, triggering calcium-dependent GH release via PLC/IP3 signaling.
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Appetite Stimulation
Acts on ghrelin receptors in the hypothalamus and vagus nerve pathways, producing significant hunger increase — the most pronounced of all GHRPs.
Somatostatin Suppression
Reduces somatostatin tone in the hypothalamus, further amplifying GH output — especially potent when co-administered with GHRH analogs.
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IGF-1 and Cortisol Elevation
Downstream GH drives IGF-1 increase. Also elevates cortisol and prolactin to a greater extent than Ipamorelin or GHRP-2.
Dosing Protocol

Dosing Schedule

Parameters documented in published preclinical and clinical research.

⚠️ Research use only. The following documents parameters from published preclinical and clinical research. Not medical advice. Not for human consumption. Consult a licensed healthcare professional before any use.
PhaseDoseFrequencyDurationNotes
Start50–100 mcgOnce daily (bedtime)Days 1–7Fasted SubQ. Expect significant appetite increase after injection.
Working dose100 mcg2× dailyWeeks 2–8AM fasted + bedtime. Stack with CJC-1295 No DAC. Saturation dose — above 100 mcg adds minimal GH.
Advanced100–300 mcg3× dailyWeeks 3–12Third dose post-workout. Some protocols use up to 300 mcg 3× daily for ghrelin and appetite research.
Off cycle4 weeksOff period to prevent receptor desensitization.
Safety Profile

Safety & Side Effects

✓ Generally Well Tolerated
Decades of published research data
Strong GH output at low saturation dose (100 mcg)
Short half-life — flexible timing
Useful for appetite enhancement in research contexts
⚠ Potential Concerns
Pronounced appetite stimulation — may complicate body composition goals
Cortisol and prolactin elevation greater than newer GHRPs
WADA S2 prohibited
Receptor desensitization with continuous long-term use
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Research use onlyThis page is an educational reference. None of this constitutes medical advice. Consult a qualified professional before any use. All compounds are for research purposes only.
Evidence Base

Academic References

  1. [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 ↗
  2. [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 ↗
  3. [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 ↗
  4. [4]
    Bowers CY. (1998). Growth hormone-releasing peptide (GHRP). Cell Mol Life Sci. 54(12):1316–29. PubMed ↗
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