Machine-assisted translation — the German original version is authoritative.
Growth Hormone System
Hexarelin
Examorelin · HEX
Hexarelin (examorelin) is a synthetic GHRP and the most potent growth hormone releaser of the group. It binds the ghrelin receptor and additionally the cardiac CD36 receptor, which is why it has also been investigated in cardiovascular research. It is not approved for human use; with repeated administration a receptor desensitization occurs, so the GH response declines.
Regulatory status
Not approved for humans
Not approved; in sport (WADA) banned at all times.
Drug class
Synthetic GH secretagogue (ghrelin and CD36 receptor)
Half-life (informative)
Short (in the range of minutes).
Studied in the literature
In studies subcutaneously or intravenously.
Mechanism of action
Hexarelin is a strong GHS-R1a agonist (vigorous GH release) and additionally binds the cardiac receptor CD36, through which GH-independent cardiac effects have been investigated. It shows the strongest raw GH response of the group, but with more pronounced cortisol/prolactin elevation and rapid desensitization.
The rapid desensitization is one reason why there is no established therapeutic regimen.
Research history
Developed in the 1990s; investigated in endocrinology as a GH secretagogue and in cardiology for cardioprotective signaling pathways.
Regulatory status by region
No approval for human use.
GH secretagogues are on the WADA Prohibited List at all times.
Research areas
- GH release / pituitary function
- Cardioprotective signaling pathways (preclinical and early clinical research)
Documented effects (from the literature)
- Rise in GH and IGF-1.
- Elevation of cortisol and prolactin.
- Diminishing effect (desensitization) with frequent administration.
Safety concerns & caution
- The cardiac effects have not been tested for self-administration.
- Pronounced accompanying hormonal effects.
Risks of gray-market purchase
- Traded as a "research" peptide without medicinal-product control.
- Identity, purity, and content are unknown.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the effect of hexarelin diminish?
Hexarelin desensitizes the ghrelin receptor relatively quickly; with frequent administration the GH response declines. This is one of the reasons why there is no established therapeutic regimen for 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.