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Growth Hormone Secretagogues
Research Chemical

Hexarelin

Also known as: Hexarelin, Examorelin, EP-23905

A potent growth hormone releasing peptide and ghrelin receptor agonist, among the strongest GH-stimulating GHRPs, with additional cardioprotective effects studied in preclinical work.

Last updated

Mechanism of Action

Hexarelin is a synthetic hexapeptide that strongly activates the GHS-R1a (ghrelin) receptor to drive substantial growth hormone release. It also binds the CD36 scavenger receptor, which underlies its researched cardioprotective and anti-fibrotic effects independent of GH. Its high potency can lead to faster receptor desensitization than gentler secretagogues, an important consideration in research design.

Half-life
Approximately 55-70 minutes
Administration Routes
subcutaneous
Research Status
Research Chemical

Reported Benefits

  • Among the most potent GH-releasing peptides
  • Cardioprotective effects in preclinical models (via CD36)
  • Supports recovery and lean mass
  • May have anti-fibrotic properties
  • Effective at low microgram doses

Potential Side Effects

  • Cortisol and prolactin elevation at higher doses
  • Receptor desensitization with continuous use
  • Water retention and tingling
  • Increased appetite and flushing

Common Dosing

Research literature references ~100 mcg per dose, 1-2 times daily, with attention to desensitization over time. Educational reference only.

The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.

Contraindications

  • Active malignancy
  • Uncontrolled diabetes
  • Cardiovascular instability (consult research literature)
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Growth hormone-releasing activity of hexarelin, a new synthetic hexapeptide, after intravenous, subcutaneous, intranasal, and oral administration in man

    1994

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  • Endocrine activities of ghrelin, a natural growth hormone secretagogue (GHS), in humans: comparison and interactions with hexarelin, a nonnatural peptidyl GHS, and GH-releasing hormone

    2001

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  • Growth hormone-independent cardioprotective effects of hexarelin in the rat

    1999

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  • CD36 mediates the cardiovascular action of growth hormone-releasing peptides in the heart

    2002

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It is one of the strongest ghrelin-receptor agonists for GH release, effective at low doses, but this potency also leads to quicker receptor desensitization than milder peptides.

Beyond GH release, it binds the CD36 receptor, giving it cardioprotective and anti-fibrotic properties in preclinical studies that are independent of growth hormone.

PeptideChat is for educational and research purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. PeptideChat is an independent educational resource — not a pharmacy, compounding, or 503A/503B outsourcing facility — and does not sell products or provide medical advice.