Hexarelin is a synthetic hexapeptide GHRP that potently stimulates growth hormone release via GHS-R1a. It produces one of the strongest GH pulses in its class and also exhibits cardioprotective effects, including reduced oxidative stress and improved lipid profiles. Long-term use may induce desensitization and elevate cortisol and prolactin. Hexarelin is the strongest GHRP.
Hexarelin
Also known as: Examorelin
Overview
Benefits
- Enhanced cardioprotection
- Muscle support
- Better lipid profile
- Growth hormone boost
Consider This Peptide If You Want To
- Stimulate GH for muscle growth, fat loss, and recovery
- Improve cardiovascular health and protect against oxidative stress
Dosage & Administration
Dosage Guidelines
Recommended Dosage
• Amount:100 mcg
• Frequency:weekdays
• Duration:8 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, multiple injections can be given daily, 5 day on, 2 days off
◦ Duration: 4-8 weeks on, 4-8 weeks off
• 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
GH Pathway Activation:
Hexarelin binds to growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHS-R1a) in the anterior pituitary and hypothalamus, stimulating the release of growth hormone (GH). This activation triggers the cyclic AMP (cAMP) and phospholipase C (PLC) pathways, leading to the release of GH from somatotroph cells. As a result, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) production in the liver increases, promoting muscle growth, fat metabolism, and cellular regeneration.
Cardioprotective Action:
Hexarelin reduces oxidative stress by enhancing mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, which neutralizes free radicals and prevents cardiomyocyte damage. Additionally, it activates the Akt/PI3K signaling pathway, preventing cardiomyocyte apoptosis and preserving heart function. By enhancing nitric oxide (NO) production, Hexarelin improves endothelial function, vasodilation, and overall cardiac output.
Cholesterol and Lipid Regulation:
Hexarelin modulates liver enzyme activity involved in lipid metabolism, reducing triglyceride accumulation and improving cholesterol balance. By activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α), it enhances lipid oxidation and fat metabolism, supporting cardiovascular health and reducing atherosclerosis risk.
Muscle Preservation:
Hexarelin stimulates myogenesis by activating the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, promoting muscle protein synthesis and hypertrophy. It also inhibits myostatin, a negative regulator of muscle growth, allowing for greater skeletal muscle repair and regeneration.
Consider Stacking With
- Any GHRH (CJC-1295, MOD-GRF-1295, Tesamorelin)
- BPC-157
- TB-4
- AOD-9604
- Semaglutide/Tirzepatide
- PEG-MGF
- Kisspeptin-10
- 5-Amino-1MQ
Side Effects & Cautions
Common Side Effects
- Injection site redness, itchiness, swelling
- Increased appetite (less than GHRP-2/6)
- Water retention
- Desensitization with prolonged use
- Mild edema
Cautions
- Avoid with hormone-sensitive conditions (e.g., prolactinomas)
- Use caution in cardiovascular disease pending further research
Research & References
Research Highlights
Cardiac Protection (2002): Hexarelin reduced cardiac fibrosis and apoptosis in animal models post-heart attack. (Source: PMID 12473550)
Muscle Preservation (2011): Prevented muscle wasting and supported recovery in cachexia and sarcopenia models. (Source: PMID 22005308)
Lipid Metabolism (2001): Improved cholesterol profiles and reduced triglyceride levels in clinical trials. (Source: PMID 11522130)
GH Secretion Potency (1999): Demonstrated the strongest GH release among GHRPs in comparative studies. (Source: PMID 10211492)
References
Cardioprotective Effects of Hexarelin - Published: 2002 (PMID 12473550)
Hexarelin in Muscle Wasting Conditions - Published: 2011 (PMID 22005308)
Impact of Hexarelin on Lipid Metabolism - Published: 2001 (PMID 11522130)
Hexarelin and GH Secretion Dynamics - Published: 1999 (PMID 10211492)