Machine-assisted translation — the German original version is authoritative.
Growth Hormone System
GHRP-6
Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6 · SKF-110679
GHRP-6 is the first synthetic hexapeptide, characterized in 1984, that releases growth hormone specifically and dose-dependently — via a mechanism independent of GHRH (the ghrelin receptor). It is not approved for any human use and, as a ghrelin mimetic, triggers a pronounced hunger reaction. Historically it was the tool with which the ghrelin signaling pathway was discovered in the first place.
Regulatory status
Not approved for humans
Not approved; in sport (WADA) banned at all times.
Drug class
Synthetic GH secretagogue (ghrelin receptor agonist), hexapeptide
Half-life (informative)
Short (in the range of minutes).
Studied in the literature
In studies subcutaneously or intravenously.
Mechanism of action
GHRP-6 is a GHS-R1a agonist: it triggers a GH release and at the same time markedly stimulates appetite. This hunger reaction is more pronounced than with GHRP-2.
Acts via the body's own GH axis; the strong appetite stimulation is characteristic.
Research history
Cyril Bowers described GHRP-6 in 1984 as the first evidence that a synthetic peptide can release GH independently of GHRH. This paved the way for the discovery of the body's own ligand, ghrelin (1999).
Regulatory status by region
No approval for human use.
GH secretagogues are on the WADA Prohibited List at all times.
Research areas
- Research on the GH axis
- Ghrelin signaling pathway
- Appetite and energy balance
Documented effects (from the literature)
- Pronounced hunger.
- Rise in GH and IGF-1, fluid retention.
- Elevation of cortisol and prolactin possible.
Safety concerns & caution
- As with GHRP-2, chronic use outside a medical indication is unstudied.
- The pronounced appetite can be undesirable.
Risks of gray-market purchase
- Traded as a "research" peptide without medicinal-product control.
- Identity, purity, and content are unknown.
Frequently asked questions
How does GHRP-6 differ from GHRP-2?
Both are ghrelin mimetics that release GH. GHRP-6 triggers a stronger hunger, GHRP-2 releases more GH per microgram. Neither of the two is approved for human use.
Sources
Primary and reference sources for your own reading.
Related substances
Unfamiliar terms? Look them up in the glossary or read the fundamentals.
This profile is for information and education only. It is not medical advice and deliberately contains no dosing or usage details. Decisions about use belong in a doctor’s hands.