Structure · schematic
Peptide chain of 6 amino acids · GHRP
Sequence
D-Ala-D-2-Nal-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂
Schematic representation of the amino acid chain — not a chemical structural formula. Each node represents one amino acid.
Research areas*
* Contexts in which the peptide has been scientifically studied — not assured or recommended effects.
Mechanism of action
- GHRP-2 is a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a potent agonist at the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a).
- Binding to GHS-R1a in the somatotroph cells of the anterior pituitary triggers a strong pulsatile release of growth hormone (GH).
- At the same time, its hypothalamic action reduces somatostatin inhibition, further amplifying the GH pulse.
- Compared with GHRP-6, GHRP-2 stimulates appetite less markedly, as its ghrelinergic action on the hypothalamus is weaker.
- GHRP-2 also moderately raises prolactin and cortisol — an effect that can be clinically relevant at therapeutic doses.
Research status
- GHRP-2 is among the best clinically studied growth hormone secretagogues.
- In Japan, pralmorelin (the INN of GHRP-2) was used in Phase III studies for the diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency and showed reliable GH stimulation comparable to the insulin tolerance test.
- Studies in healthy subjects document a dose-dependent GH release peaking 15–30 minutes after administration.
- For therapeutic applications beyond diagnostics (anti-aging, muscle hypertrophy), no controlled clinical studies exist.
Evidence level
Cited studies
Known risks
- 01Moderate increase in prolactin and cortisol — clinically relevant with prolonged use
- 02Fluid retention possible due to elevated GH/IGF-1 levels
- 03Hypoglycaemia potential via IGF-1-mediated insulin sensitisation
- 04Tachyphylaxis with continuous administration (receptor desensitisation)
- 05No long-term safety data outside clinical studies
Frequently asked questions
What is GHRP-2?
GHRP-2 is a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a potent agonist at the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a).
What type of peptide is GHRP-2?
GHRP-2 belongs to the GHRP class.
Is GHRP-2 legal in Germany?
GHRP-2 is not approved as a medicine in Germany. Obtaining it outside clinical studies is legally problematic.
Where can I buy GHRP-2?
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. GHRP-2 is "not approved" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
Is GHRP-2 banned in sport (WADA)?
Yes. GHRP-2 is on the WADA Prohibited List and is therefore banned in competitive sport.
What are the known risks of GHRP-2?
Documented risks include: Moderate increase in prolactin and cortisol — clinically relevant with prolonged use; Fluid retention possible due to elevated GH/IGF-1 levels. This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is GHRP-2?
The evidence is classified as “early clinical studies”. 3 studies are cited on this page.
What is the molecular weight of GHRP-2?
GHRP-2 has a molar mass of about 818 Da, with a plasma half-life of ~30 minutes.
Which peptides are related to GHRP-2?
Closely related entries: CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, GHRP-6, Hexarelin. A direct side-by-side comparison is available via the compare function.
Related entries
Legal status
Germany
not approvedAustria
not approvedSwitzerland
not approvedEU
not approvedUSA
not approvedCanada
not approvedLegal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Sources & methodology
- 3 peer-reviewed studies cited, linked to PubMed where available.
- Molecular data verified against PubChem and primary literature. PubChem CID 6918245
- Editorial standard: no dosage guidance, no sources, evidence level stated explicitly.
Last editorially reviewed: 28 May 2026
Legal assessment
GHRP-2 is not an approved medicine in the EU. As a growth hormone secretagogue, it is listed on the WADA Prohibited List (S2). Importing it as a research chemical may fall under the German Medicines Act (AMG) and is legally problematic.
Important notice
This site is intended solely for factual, scientifically oriented information about peptides. It does not constitute medical advice, does not replace a consultation with a doctor and contains no recommendations for use in humans.
This site does not sell any substances and names no sources for unapproved substances. For medical questions, please consult qualified medical professionals.
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