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Hexarelin

Growth Hormone
·887 Da·6 amino acids·C47H58N12O6
Peptide Database
4Mechanisms
6Benefits
18Studies
2Dosages

Hexarelin is a synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue and a potent, selective agonist of the ghrelin/growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a). It was developed from GHRP-6 by incorporation of D-2-methyl-tryptophan, enhancing enzymatic resistance and receptor affinity. Hexarelin is the same compound as Examorelin (INN).

SequenceHwAWfK
Research Dosage Notes

Research protocols typically use 200-300 mcg/day, divided into 100 mcg doses 2-3 times daily via subcutaneous injection. Starting dose of 100 mcg/day recommended for tolerance assessment. Cycles of 12-16 weeks followed by mandatory 4-6 week breaks to prevent receptor desensitization. Partial tolerance develops with prolonged use (50-75% efficacy decrease over weeks to months). Hexarelin reached Phase II clinical trials but was never marketed. Note: Hexarelin and Examorelin are the same compound (INN: Examorelin).

Mechanisms of Action

4

GHS-R1a receptor agonism

Strong

Binds to growth hormone secretagogue receptors (GHS-R1a) on pituitary somatotroph cells, activating intracellular signaling via calcium mobilization, protein kinase C activation, and phospholipase C / IP3 production.

GHS-R1a / PLC / PKC / calcium signaling

Hypothalamic GHRH enhancement

Moderate

Interacts with hypothalamic neurons to potentiate endogenous GHRH signaling, amplifying GH pulses beyond what direct pituitary stimulation alone achieves.

GHRH / hypothalamic-pituitary axis

Somatostatin antagonism

Moderate

Functionally antagonizes somatostatin-mediated inhibition of GH release, permitting larger amplitude GH secretory pulses.

Somatostatin inhibitory pathway

CD36-mediated cardioprotection

Moderate

Uniquely among GHRPs, hexarelin demonstrates direct cardioprotective effects through the CD36 scavenger receptor, independent of GH release. Activates endothelial nitric oxide synthase and improves cardiac contractility.

CD36 / eNOS / cardiac contractility

Benefits

6
90

Potent GH release

Hormonal

One of the most potent synthetic GH secretagogues, producing significant IGF-1 elevation (up to 220% above baseline) and robust pulsatile GH output.

Strong
70

Lean muscle growth

Body Composition

Promotes lean muscle mass through GH/IGF-1-mediated protein synthesis, nitrogen retention, and anabolic signaling.

Moderate
65

Fat loss

Body Composition

Supports fat metabolism and body recomposition through GH-mediated lipolysis.

Moderate
70

Cardioprotection

Longevity

Reduced infarct size by 25-40% in ischemia-reperfusion animal models. Cardioprotective effects operate independently of GH release through CD36 receptor pathway.

Moderate
65

Tissue repair and recovery

Recovery

Enhanced tendon and ligament strength, improved flexibility and joint health, faster recovery from injuries and training.

Moderate
50

Sleep quality improvement

Sleep

GH release patterns associated with improved deep sleep quality and energy levels.

Emerging

Dosage Data

2
4
Human

Study: Growth hormone secretagogues (GHSs) possess the ability to release growth hormon... Year: 2018 | Route: oral

1
Animal

Study: Growth hormone (GH)-releasing peptides (GHRPs), a family of synthetic oligopepti... Year: 1996 | Route: oral, intravenous

Research Studies

18
2024

GH-releasing peptide-2 (GHRP2) can be used for provocative growth hormone testing (GHT). Since it ac...

Journal of pediatric endocrinology & metabolism : JPEM · Takanori Onuki, Tadokoro Hiroaki, Kentaro Sawano, Nao Shibat...

2021

Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide 6 (GHRP-6) (His-(D-Trp)-Ala-Trp-(D-Phe)-Lys-NH2) is an agonist of t...

Fish & shellfish immunology · Liz Hernández, Hanlet Camacho, Adriana Nuñez-Robainas, Danie...

2019

Ghrelin, a growth hormone-releasing peptide that was first discovered in the stomach of rats in 1999...

Peptides · Takeshi Tokudome, Kentaro Otani, Mikiya Miyazato, Kenji Kang...

2018

Growth hormone (GH) increases lean body mass, decreases fat mass, increases exercise tolerance and m...

Sexual medicine reviews · John T Sigalos, Alexander W Pastuszak

2018

Growth hormone secretagogues (GHSs) possess the ability to release growth hormone (GH) in the body. ...

Yonsei medical journal · Junghun Lee, Ahreum Kwon, Hyun Wook Chae, Woo Jung Lee, Tae ...

This database is for educational and research purposes only. It is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before using any peptide or supplement.

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