Structure · schematic
Peptide chain of 6 amino acids · GHRP
Sequence
His-D-Trp-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-6 is the first synthetic growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) and the prototype of the GHRP class.
- As a potent GHS-R1a agonist, it triggers pulsatile GH release from the pituitary.
- Characteristic of GHRP-6 is a pronounced ghrelin-mimetic effect in the hypothalamus, which, alongside GH release, mediates strong appetite stimulation via NPY and AgRP neurons.
- This appetite effect clinically distinguishes GHRP-6 from more selective GHRPs such as ipamorelin.
- GHRP-6 also raises cortisol and prolactin, more strongly than GHRP-2.
Research status
- GHRP-6 is the historically first and foundationally studied peptide of the GHRP class.
- Since its discovery by Bowers et al. (1984), its GH-stimulating effect and safety profile have been characterised in numerous clinical studies.
- Clinical human studies document robust GH pulses with concurrent rises in cortisol and prolactin.
- In animal models, cardioprotective effects via GHS-R1b mechanisms have also been described.
- For muscle hypertrophy or anti-aging applications in humans, controlled studies are lacking.
Evidence level
Cited studies
Known risks
- 01Pronounced appetite stimulation — can cause an uncontrolled caloric surplus
- 02Marked rise in cortisol and prolactin, stronger than with GHRP-2 or ipamorelin
- 03Fluid retention due to GH/IGF-1 increase
- 04Tachyphylaxis with continuous administration is known
- 05Insulin resistance possible with chronically elevated GH levels
- 06No controlled long-term studies outside diagnostic contexts
Frequently asked questions
What is GHRP-6?
GHRP-6 is the first synthetic growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) and the prototype of the GHRP class.
What type of peptide is GHRP-6?
GHRP-6 belongs to the GHRP class.
Is GHRP-6 legal in Germany?
GHRP-6 is not approved as a medicine in Germany. Obtaining it outside clinical studies is legally problematic.
Where can I buy GHRP-6?
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. GHRP-6 is "not approved" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
Is GHRP-6 banned in sport (WADA)?
Yes. GHRP-6 is on the WADA Prohibited List and is therefore banned in competitive sport.
What are the known risks of GHRP-6?
Documented risks include: Pronounced appetite stimulation — can cause an uncontrolled caloric surplus; Marked rise in cortisol and prolactin, stronger than with GHRP-2 or ipamorelin. This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is GHRP-6?
The evidence is classified as “early clinical studies”. 3 studies are cited on this page.
What is the molecular weight of GHRP-6?
GHRP-6 has a molar mass of about 873 Da.
Which peptides are related to GHRP-6?
Closely related entries: CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, GHRP-2, 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 4345065
- Editorial standard: no dosage guidance, no sources, evidence level stated explicitly.
Last editorially reviewed: 28 May 2026
Legal assessment
GHRP-6 is not an approved medicine in the EU. It is listed on the WADA Prohibited List (S2). Importing it as a research chemical may fall under the German Medicines Act (AMG).
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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