GHRP-2 for Growth Hormone Stimulation — Performance & Recovery
Potent synthetic growth hormone releasing peptide with stronger GH release than GHRP-6 and reduced appetite stimulation.
Overview
Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2 (GHRP-2, also known as KP-102 or Pralmorelin) is a synthetic hexapeptide GH secretagogue that activates the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) with higher potency than GHRP-6. GHRP-2 produces the strongest GH release among the GHRP family (4-8 fold increase over baseline), with less appetite stimulation than GHRP-6 but moderate cortisol and prolactin increases. Bowers et al. (Endocrine Reviews, 2004) provided comprehensive review of GHRP-2 pharmacology. Arvat et al. (J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 1997) demonstrated dose-dependent GH release in humans with good tolerability. GHRP-2 was approved in Japan (2004) as Pralmorelin (GHRP Kaken 100) for diagnostic use in GH deficiency assessment, making it one of the few GHRPs with regulatory approval anywhere. Well-studied in human clinical trials across multiple indications. NOT FDA-approved in the US.
Indications
- Growth hormone stimulation for recovery and performance
- GH deficiency diagnostic testing (approved in Japan as Pralmorelin)
- Body composition optimization and lean mass enhancement
- Enhanced recovery from training, injury, or surgery
Mechanism of Action
Age-related somatopause reduces GH pulse amplitude, affecting recovery, body composition, and tissue repair
Dosing
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| GHRP-2 | 100-300 mcg | 2-3 times daily (fasting) | Most potent GH release of GHRP family; administer on empty stomach |
| GHRP-2 | 200-300 mcg | Once daily (before bed, fasting) | Single dose for nocturnal GH amplification and deep sleep enhancement |
| GHRP-2 + CJC-1295 (no DAC) | 100-200 mcg each | 1-2 times daily (fasting) | Synergistic GHRH + secretagogue combination for maximum GH output |
Evidence Grade
GRADE C
Safety & Contraindications
- Moderate cortisol and prolactin elevation (less selective than ipamorelin, more than GHRP-6 for prolactin)
- Less appetite stimulation than GHRP-6 but still present
- Not FDA-approved in the US; approved in Japan for diagnostic use
- May cause water retention, flushing, and transient hyperglycemia
- Monitor glucose and insulin sensitivity with chronic use
- Contraindicated in active malignancy and uncontrolled diabetes