GHRP-6
The original GHRP — powerful GH release with significant appetite stimulation via ghrelin pathway activation.
Research facts
| Half-life | ~2–3h |
|---|---|
| Route | SubQ / IM |
| Typical dose | 100–200 mcg |
| Frequency | 2–3× daily |
| Solvent | Bacteriostatic water |
| pH | 5.5–7.5 |
| Stability | 30 days at +4°C |
Mechanism of action
GHRP-6 is a hexapeptide GHS-R1a agonist — the first synthesised member of the GHRP class (1980s). It stimulates GH secretion via the ghrelin receptor while simultaneously driving potent hunger and appetite stimulation through the same ghrelin pathway in the hypothalamus. GHRP-6 also elevates cortisol and prolactin, similarly to GHRP-2. Its GH-stimulating potency is strong but now largely superseded by Ipamorelin for research use due to Ipamorelin's cleaner selectivity. GHRP-6 retains interest primarily for its appetite-stimulant properties in cachexia and wasting disease research.
Documented effects (research-model)
- Strong GH pulse stimulation
- Potent appetite stimulation (useful in cachexia research)
- Early research foundation for all GHRPs
- Ghrelin pathway activation for GI motility
Research protocols
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Cycle | Vial |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 100 mcg SubQ | 2–3× daily (on empty stomach) | 8–12 weeks | 5mg / 5mL BAC water |
Research context only. Not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before any protocol decision.
Synergies
- CJC-1295 HIGH
GHRH + GHRP synergy. CJC-1295 amplifies the GH pulse GHRP-6 triggers.
Myths & misconceptions
Evidence gaps
- No significant research advantage over Ipamorelin in healthy adults.
- Appetite stimulation is often a research confounder.
Safety notes
Significant appetite stimulation (hunger within 20–30 minutes of injection), cortisol and prolactin elevation. Less selective than Ipamorelin. Generally superseded for most research applications.
Biomarkers to monitor
Primary-source citations
- PMID 8345871 — Growth hormone-releasing hexapeptide stimulates GH release in man (J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1993)
Frequently asked
What is GHRP-6?
GHRP-6 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6 — First GHRP) is a research compound classified in our library as Tier C — Limited human trials; effect size uncertain.. The original GHRP — powerful GH release with significant appetite stimulation via ghrelin pathway activation.
What is the evidence tier for GHRP-6?
We classify GHRP-6 as Tier C: Limited human trials; effect size uncertain. See our full peptide evidence tiers explainer for how we assign S/A/B/C/D.
What is the research dose of GHRP-6?
For GHRP-6, typical research dose is 100–200 mcg, route is SubQ / IM, half-life is ~2–3h. Protocols vary by research goal — see the protocols section on this page for standard and advanced dosing schedules. Research use only, not medical advice.
What does GHRP-6 stack well with?
GHRP-6 stacks well with CJC-1295. GHRH + GHRP synergy. CJC-1295 amplifies the GH pulse GHRP-6 triggers.
Is GHRP-6 safe?
Significant appetite stimulation (hunger within 20–30 minutes of injection), cortisol and prolactin elevation. Less selective than Ipamorelin. Research context only — no compound on this site is approved for human therapeutic use unless explicitly noted.