GHRP-2
Also known as: Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2, Pralmorelin
A synthetic growth hormone secretagogue that acts on the ghrelin receptor. It is the first GH secretagogue to be used clinically (approved in Japan as a diagnostic tool under the name pralmorelin). More potent than GHRP-6 but also stimulates appetite, cortisol, and prolactin more.
How it works
GHRP-2 activates the ghrelin/growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR) in the pituitary gland, triggering a pulse of growth hormone release. Like ghrelin, it also stimulates appetite and food intake. It works best when combined with a GHRH analog like CJC-1295 or sermorelin, which amplifies the GH pulse.
Common uses
- Growth hormone stimulation
- GH deficiency diagnosis (approved in Japan)
- Body composition and lean mass
- Recovery and sleep improvement
Side effects
- Increased appetite and food intake
- Water retention
- Tingling or numbness in hands and feet
- Elevated cortisol and prolactin levels
- Elevated blood glucose and potential insulin resistance
- Injection site reactions
- Possible effects on neoplastic cell growth (theoretical with long-term use)
Key research
- Clinical studies showed GHRP-2 increases GH secretion and food intake in healthy men
- Eight-month treatment study in GH-deficient children showed dose-dependent GH increases
- Marketed in Japan as pralmorelin for diagnosing GH deficiency
- Comparable GH release to GHRP-6 but with somewhat more cortisol and prolactin elevation
Safety notes
- Not FDA-approved for any therapeutic use in the U.S.
- Available through compounding pharmacies or research suppliers, pending formal reclassification
- Raises cortisol and prolactin more than ipamorelin, which is why many doctors prefer ipamorelin
- Not appropriate for people with diabetes due to blood sugar effects
- Requires IGF-1 and metabolic monitoring
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