GHRP-2

GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2, Pralmorelin) is a synthetic hexapeptide that stimulates growth hormone secretion through activation of the ghrelin/growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a). Unlike growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH), GHRP-2 acts through an independent pathway and produces strong, reliable GH pulses. Research demonstrates GHRP-2 increases appetite through ghrelin-like effects, making it useful when appetite stimulation is desired but potentially problematic for weight management applications. The peptide also stimulates mild increases in prolactin and cortisol compared to more selective secretagogues like Ipamorelin. Studies show synergistic effects when combined with GHRH analogs, producing greater GH release than either peptide alone. GHRP-2 has been investigated for diagnostic use in evaluating pituitary GH reserve and therapeutic applications in growth hormone deficiency states. The peptide requires subcutaneous injection multiple times daily due to its short half-life. Research continues into applications for muscle wasting, wound healing, and age-related GH decline.

Human data are limited to small phase 1/pharmacokinetic studies, case reports, and diagnostic-test use. No large clinical trials support therapeutic use for GH deficiency, wasting, or anti-aging; long-term safety data are lacking, and its short half-life limits practical use.

Short-acting peptide secretagogue given by subcutaneous or intranasal administration. It activates the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) to stimulate endogenous GH release (it is not GH itself). The phase 1 pediatric study reported rapid absorption and a short plasma half-life consistent with repeated-dosing protocols.