GHRP-2
Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2
GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2) is a synthetic hexapeptide ghrelin mimetic that potently stimulates endogenous growth hormone secretion from the anterior pituitary. It is primarily used in research and performance contexts for increasing GH pulses, improving body composition, enhancing recovery, and supporting anti-aging protocols. Unlike exogenous HGH administration, GHRP-2 works through the body's own regulatory systems to produce physiological GH release.
Mechanism of Action
GHRP-2 acts as a selective agonist at the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) in both the pituitary and hypothalamus, triggering a strong, pulsatile release of endogenous growth hormone. It simultaneously suppresses somatostatin signaling, reducing the inhibitory brake on GH secretion and amplifying the overall GH pulse. GHRP-2 also mildly stimulates prolactin and ACTH/cortisol release, distinguishing it from more selective GH secretagogues like Ipamorelin, and works synergistically with GHRH analogs to produce supraphysiological GH peaks.
Evidence by Health Goal(14 goals)
Dosing Protocols
On an empty stomach, at least 2 hours after a meal and 30 minutes before eating; most common dosing times are morning upon waking, pre-workout, and 30 minutes before bed
Cycle: 12-16 weeks on, 4-6 weeks off
Subcutaneous injection is standard; insulin syringes (28-31 gauge) are recommended. Reconstitute lyophilized powder with bacteriostatic water and store refrigerated. Doses above 300mcg per injection show diminishing returns due to GH receptor saturation. Commonly stacked with a GHRH analog (e.g., CJC-1295 or Mod GRF 1-29) to synergistically amplify GH release 3-10 fold compared to either peptide alone.
Safety & Side Effects
GHRP-2 has a generally acceptable short-term safety profile in healthy adults at research doses, but it is not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use and is sold only as a research chemical in most jurisdictions. Its stimulation of cortisol and prolactin distinguishes it from cleaner secretagogues like Ipamorelin, and long-term safety data in humans is limited; individuals with active cancer, diabetes, or pituitary disorders should not use this compound.
Possible Side Effects
- !Increased hunger and appetite stimulation (most common, due to ghrelin receptor agonism)
- !Water retention and mild peripheral edema at higher doses
- !Tingling or numbness in extremities (transient, especially early in use)
- !Elevated cortisol and prolactin levels with frequent or high-dose use
- !Injection site irritation, redness, or minor localized swelling
- !Fatigue or lethargy shortly after injection, particularly with higher doses
- !Potential worsening of insulin sensitivity with chronic high-dose use
- !Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms with prolonged use at high doses
Interactions
- -Synergistic GH amplification when co-administered with GHRH analogs (CJC-1295, Mod GRF 1-29) — considered beneficial but increases potency and side effect risk
- -May worsen insulin resistance — use caution and monitor blood glucose in pre-diabetic individuals or those on insulin/oral hypoglycemics
- -Elevated cortisol may antagonize the effects of exogenous glucocorticoids and interfere with immunosuppressive therapy
- -May elevate prolactin levels, potentially interacting with dopamine agonists (e.g., cabergoline, bromocriptine) used for prolactin management
- -Concurrent use with exogenous HGH increases risk of acromegalic side effects, carpal tunnel syndrome, and glucose dysregulation
Cost & Where to Buy
Research-grade GHRP-2 from reputable peptide vendors typically costs $20-50 per 5mg vial; at 200mcg per injection 2x daily, one 5mg vial lasts approximately 12 days. Monthly cost scales with dose frequency and vendor quality. Pricing varies significantly by vendor purity, third-party testing status, and geographic location. Bacteriostatic water and insulin syringes add a small additional recurring cost.
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