GHRP-2 (5mg)
GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide-2) is a synthetic hexapeptide that stimulates potent, dose-dependent growth hormone release by activating ghrelin receptors. Clinical studies primarily utilize once-daily subcutaneous administration for robust pulsatile GH release while minimizing receptor desensitization. This protocol presents a gradual titration approach.
Reviewed by the AllPeptides.eu Editorial Team·Last reviewed: 2026-06-16
Educational information. Not medical advice, and no efficacy claim is implied. Regulatory approval is not a use recommendation by AllPeptides.eu.
⚠️ For informational/educational purposes only. Not medical advice. We do not sell any products. Self-treatment carries serious risks — consult a healthcare professional. Disclaimer
Research monograph
See the full GHRP-2 encyclopedia page with mechanism, evidence tier, related variants and research context.
How It Works
GHRP-2 is a synthetic growth hormone secretagogue that binds to and activates ghrelin receptors. This activation triggers a potent, pulsatile release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland in a dose-dependent manner. Clinical studies in children with GH deficiency demonstrated significant GH increases even at low doses (0.3–3.0 mcg/kg), with escalating doses over several months showing sustained efficacy. In healthy adults, doses of 100 mcg SC daily produce acute GH stimulation. The peptide is well-tolerated in clinical trials without significant adverse events.
Quick Start
- Reconstitution: Add 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water → ~1.67 mg/mL concentration.
- Typical daily range: 100–300 mcg once daily subcutaneously.
- Storage: Lyophilized: freeze −20 °C; after reconstitution, refrigerate 2–8 °C.
Standard / Gradual Approach (3 mL = ~1.67 mg/mL)
Route: Subcutaneously | Frequency: Once daily
| Week | Dose | Units (per injection) |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–2 | 100 mcg | 6 Units (0.06 mL) |
| Weeks 3–4 | 150 mcg | 9 Units (0.09 mL) |
| Weeks 5–16 | 200 mcg | 12 Units (0.12 mL) |
Studies report administration once daily subcutaneously. Evening administration may leverage nocturnal GH rhythms.
Related compounds
Reconstitution Steps
- Draw up 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water.
- Inject slowly down the side; avoid foaming.
- Gently swirl/rotate until dissolved (do not shake).
- Label and refrigerate at 2–8 °C, protecting from light.
Protocol Overview
- Objective: Stimulate endogenous growth hormone secretion via ghrelin receptor activation.
- Schedule: Daily subcutaneous injections for 8–16 weeks.
- Storage: Lyophilized frozen; reconstituted refrigerated; use within 2–3 weeks.
Dosing Protocol
- Start: 100 mcg daily (Wk 1–2).
- Mid: 150 mcg daily (Wk 3–4).
- Target: 200 mcg daily (Wk 5–16); optionally 250–300 mcg for advanced.
- Frequency: Once daily (subcutaneously), evening administration.
- Cycle Duration: 8–16 weeks.
- Break between cycles: After the cycle, a 4–6 week washout period is recommended. GHRP-2 may induce GHSR tolerance after prolonged use—the break restores sensitivity.
Washout & Cycle Restart
When can I restart?
After the cycle, a 4–6 week washout period is recommended. GHRP-2 may induce GHSR tolerance after prolonged use—the break restores sensitivity.
Minimum wait period: 4 weeks
Storage Instructions
- Lyophilized: Store at −20 °C.
- Reconstituted: Refrigerate 2–8 °C; use within 2–3 weeks.
- Allow vials to reach room temperature before opening.
Important Notes
- Very frequent dosing (e.g., every 2 hours) can cause tachyphylaxis; a once-daily dose avoids this.
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
Potential Benefits:
- Stimulates a powerful pulsatile GH release that can support favorable body composition changes and metabolic outcomes.
- In combination therapies (e.g., with GHRH analogs), it can significantly increase IGF-1 levels.
- Generally well-tolerated with a safety profile comparable to placebo; transient side effects may include a mild sensation of hunger or flushing.
- Long-term treatment (8–24 months) maintained positive effects on growth velocity.
Potential Side Effects:
- Increased appetite (ghrelin action—the most common).
- Fluid retention (mild, transient).
- Headache (transient).
- Injection site reactions.
- Mild increases in cortisol/prolactin.
⚠️ Serious Warnings & Long-Term Risks
The following warnings are based on published literature, FDA labels, and post-marketing surveillance. They do not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional.
Increased cortisol & prolactin (less than GHRP-6)
Less ghrelin-hunger than GHRP-6, but still increases cortisol. Long-term effects on HPA axis unclear.
📄 J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1997References
- Domest Anim Endocrinol — Effects of GHRP-2 on GH release (mechanism and receptor activation)
View Source - J Clin Endocrinol Metab — Effects of 8-month treatment with escalating GHRP-2 doses in children with GH deficiency
View Source - Eur J Endocrinol — 5-day treatment with daily subcutaneous GHRP-2: response attenuation and IGF-I effects
View Source - GH/IGF-1 Response to Acute and Chronic GHRP-2 in Elderly — Endocrine — GH/IGF-1 response to acute and chronic GHRP-2 in elderly adults
View Source - Sex Med Rev (PMC) — Safety and efficacy of growth hormone secretagogues: a review
View Source
Recommended Supplements
L-Arginine + L-Ornithine
ZMA (Zinc + Magnesium + B6)
External Sources & Regulatory Status
Regulatory Approvals
GHRP Kaken® · GH deficiency diagnostic (2008)
Approved in Japan (diagnostic)
Educational information. Not medical advice, and no efficacy claim is implied. Regulatory approval is not a use recommendation by AllPeptides.eu.
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