GHRP-2 is a ghrelin-mimetic GH secretagogue that binds GHS-R1a in the hypothalamus/pituitary to stimulate GH release. It can enhance muscle growth, fat loss, recovery, appetite regulation, sleep quality, and metabolic balance; transient rises in cortisol, prolactin, and ACTH have been observed.
GHRP-2
Also known as: Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide 2
Overview
Benefits
- Muscle growth and recovery
- Enhanced fat loss
- Better sleep quality
- Increased appetite
- Immune support
- Anti-aging support
Consider This Peptide If You Want To
- Stimulate natural GH production for muscle, fat loss, and recovery
- Enhance appetite and metabolic regulation
Dosage & Administration
Dosage Guidelines
Recommended Dosage
• Amount:100 mcg
• Frequency:weekdays
• Duration:10 weeks
• Rest Period:8 weeks
• Time of Day:morning
• Ingestion:subcutaneous
Administration Routes:Subcutaneous
Research Findings on Dosage:
• Subcutaneous Injection:
◦ Commonly Reported Dosage: 100 mcg 1-3 times daily, 5 days on, 2 days off
◦ Enhanced Protocol: 200-300 mcg per dose when stacked with GHRH analogs.
◦ Duration: 10-12 week cycles, followed by 4-8 week break to prevent receptor desensitization.
• Administration Notes:
◦ Administer on an empty stomach 30 minutes before eating/2 hours after eating to enhance GH release.
Mechanism of Action
Mechanism of Action
How this peptide works in the body
Hypothalamic-Pituitary Activation:
GHRP-2 binds to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a) in the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary gland, triggering the release of growth hormone (GH). This activation initiates the cyclic AMP (cAMP) and phospholipase C (PLC) pathways, leading to enhanced GH pulsatility and secretion.
Feedback Loop Suppression:
GHRP-2 overrides somatostatin-mediated GH inhibition by inhibiting somatostatin release from the hypothalamus. This prevents GH suppression, allowing for higher peak GH levels and prolonged anabolic effects, beneficial for muscle repair, fat metabolism, and recovery.
Ghrelin Receptor Activation:
By mimicking ghrelin, the body's natural hunger-stimulating hormone, GHRP-2 enhances appetite, nutrient absorption, and metabolic efficiency. Activation of GHS-R1a increases insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) production, supporting muscle growth and metabolic function while regulating glucose and lipid metabolism.
Cortisol and Prolactin Stimulation:
GHRP-2 transiently increases ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), cortisol, and prolactin by interacting with secondary pituitary receptors. These hormonal shifts influence stress response, immune function, and metabolic adaptation, making GHRP-2 potentially useful in cachexia and hormone deficiency states.
Consider Stacking With
- Any GHRH (CJC-1295, MOD-GRF-1295, Tesamorelin)
- BPC-157
- TB-4
- AOD-9604
- PEG-MGF
- Kisspeptin-10
- 5-Amino-1MQ
- Semaglutide/Tirzepatide
Side Effects & Cautions
Common Side Effects
- Injection site reactions (redness, itchiness, swelling)
- Water retention
Cautions
- Anxiety or depression with extended use
- Increased cortisol and prolactin
- Avoid with active cancer or uncontrolled diabetes
- Monitor glucose/insulin sensitivity during prolonged use
Research & References
Research Highlights
Growth Hormone Secretion: Studies show that GHRP-2 significantly increases plasma GH levels, with enhanced efficacy when combined with GHRH analogs.
Critical Illness Recovery: Research has demonstrated that GHRP-2 helps normalize IGF-1 levels, aiding in recovery from critical conditions.
Appetite Regulation: GHRP-2 effectively stimulates appetite and promotes weight gain in animal and human studies.
References
Müller, E. E., et al. (1999). Growth hormone-releasing peptides and their applications in endocrinology. Endocrine Reviews
Smith, R. G., et al. (1996). Ghrelin receptor agonists: Potential roles in metabolic and growth disorders. Nature Medicine
Ghigo, E., et al. (2001). GHRP-2: Mechanism of action and clinical applications. Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism