GHRP-2 — Growth hormone secretagogue — synthetic hexapeptide GHRP class / GHS-R1a agonist
GHRP-2 (also known as pralmorelin) is a synthetic GHS-R1a agonist that stimulates pulsatile GH release from the pituitary. Compared to GHRP-6: (1) approximately 3-fold more potent for GH release on a molar basis; (2) significantly less appetite stimulation (minimal ghrelin pathway activity at hypothalamic level); (3) greater cortisol and prolactin stimulation than GHRP-6. GHRP-2 increases both GH pulse amplitude and frequency, elevates IGF-1 within 2–4 weeks of regular use, and has greater cardiovascular tolerability profile than GHRP-6. Like hexarelin, tachyphylaxis develops with continuous use.
Overview
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Compound Class
Growth hormone secretagogue — synthetic hexapeptide GHRP class / GHS-R1a agonist
Mechanism of Action
GHRP-2 (also known as pralmorelin) is a synthetic GHS-R1a agonist that stimulates pulsatile GH release from the pituitary. Compared to GHRP-6: (1) approximately 3-fold more potent for GH release on a molar basis; (2) significantly less appetite stimulation (minimal ghrelin pathway activity at hypothalamic level); (3) greater cortisol and prolactin stimulation than GHRP-6. GHRP-2 increases both GH pulse amplitude and frequency, elevates IGF-1 within 2–4 weeks of regular use, and has greater cardiovascular tolerability profile than GHRP-6. Like hexarelin, tachyphylaxis develops with continuous use.
Regulatory Status
NOT FDA approved for therapeutic use. Approved in Japan (pralmorelin) for GH deficiency diagnosis only. Research peptide in the US and EU.
Evidence Level
C — Multiple human pharmacological studies confirm GH-stimulating efficacy (PMID: 7490562, 8550730); approved in Japan as pralmorelin for GH deficiency diagnosis; no FDA/EMA approval for therapeutic use; no Phase 3 therapeutic RCTs completed.