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Growth Hormone · GHRP

Hexarelin

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Hexarelin is a synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone-releasing peptide. The most potent GH-releaser of the GHRP class but with more pronounced prolactin and cortisol effects.

Category: Growth Hormone Secretagogues Last updated 2026-05-25
Hexarelin at a glance

Hexarelin is a synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone-releasing peptide. The most potent GH-releaser of the GHRP class but with more pronounced prolactin and cortisol effects. Mechanism: GHRP / GH secretagogue (potent). Typical route: Subcutaneous. FDA status: Not FDA-approved. Dispensed by compounding pharmacies; specialty use given the desensitization profile.

Drug classGHRP / GH secretagogue (potent)
Half-life~70 minutes
RouteSubcutaneous
Common dosing100-200 mcg, 2-3x/day
FDA statusNot approved
Available throughCompounding pharmacies

Mechanism of action

Hexarelin activates the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) with high potency, producing strong GH pulses. Receptor desensitization develops faster than with Ipamorelin or GHRP-2, and the peptide also has direct cardioprotective effects in animal models.

Dosing reference

Subcutaneous: 100-200 mcg, two to three times daily. Cycle limited to 4-8 weeks given receptor desensitization concerns. Often paired with a GHRH analog like CJC-1295 to enhance pulse amplitude.

Dosing information is provided for educational reference and is not medical advice. Patients should not initiate or modify any peptide regimen without consulting a licensed clinician. See our medical disclaimer.

FDA status & regulatory framework

Not FDA-approved. Dispensed by compounding pharmacies; specialty use given the desensitization profile.

U.S. telehealth providers that work with Hexarelin

Also covered
88/100May 2026 review (v3.0 rubric); v4.1 re-score pending

Starting at $160/mo. Defy Medical is one of the providers covered in our editorial directory that dispenses or coordinates Hexarelin.

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Also covered
85/100May 2026 review (v3.0 rubric); v4.1 re-score pending

Starting at $180/mo. Marek Health is one of the providers covered in our editorial directory that dispenses or coordinates Hexarelin.

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Also covered
76/100May 2026 review (v3.0 rubric); v4.1 re-score pending

Starting at $149/mo. Maximus is one of the providers covered in our editorial directory that dispenses or coordinates Hexarelin.

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Also covered
80/100May 2026 review (v3.0 rubric); v4.1 re-score pending

Starting at $149/mo. Hone Health is one of the providers covered in our editorial directory that dispenses or coordinates Hexarelin.

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Frequently asked questions about Hexarelin

Why isn't Hexarelin used more often?

Hexarelin produces strong GH pulses but causes faster receptor desensitization and larger prolactin and cortisol increases than Ipamorelin. Modern protocols favor Ipamorelin for daily use.

Is Hexarelin cardioprotective?

Animal studies show direct cardioprotective effects independent of GH release. Whether this translates to humans is not established.

References

  1. Imbimbo BP, Mant T, Edwards M, et al. Growth hormone-releasing activity of hexarelin in humans. A dose-response study. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1994;46(5):421-425. PMID: 7957535
  2. Locatelli V, Rossoni G, Schweiger F, et al. Growth hormone-independent cardioprotective effects of hexarelin in the rat. Endocrinology. 1999;140(9):4024-4031. PMID: 10465272

Sources are peer-reviewed where available. PubMed (PMID) links resolve to NCBI's PubMed database. FDA links resolve to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Citations were last verified 2026-05-11.

Researched By
Dr. Parmis
Medical Researcher · Western University of Health Sciences
Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Jonathan Snipes, MD · Kim Callender, NP (FNP-BC)
Last medically reviewed: October 15, 2026 · This page is informational and does not constitute medical advice.