GHRP-6
Also known as: Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6, His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys
Growth hormone secretagogue (ghrelin receptor agonist, GHRP class)
Overview
GHRP-6 is a hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates GH release via the ghrelin receptor. Among the GHRPs it is notable for strongly stimulating appetite, and it tends to raise cortisol and prolactin more than the more selective ipamorelin. It has been used in endocrinology research as a GH-stimulation agent. It is not FDA-approved for human use, is sold mainly as a research chemical, and is prohibited in sport. Marketed performance and physique claims are not supported by robust controlled human outcome trials.
Commonly Reported Uses
These are uses commonly discussed or marketed by users and vendors — not a list of proven or approved benefits, and not a recommendation.
- Stimulating GH/IGF-1 — marketed claim
- Appetite stimulation (notably strong for this peptide) — reported effect
- Recovery and muscle support — marketed claim, unproven in controlled human outcome trials
What to Track
Data points you and your clinician might monitor. For observation only — not a diagnostic protocol.
- Labs — IGF-1; cortisol and prolactin (more likely to rise with GHRP-6) if a clinician is monitoring; fasting glucose
- Nutrition — MyFitnessPal caloric intake (appetite stimulation can increase intake — relevant when cutting)
- Body composition — InBody lean mass and body-fat %
- Whoop — recovery and resting heart rate
- Subjective — appetite, water retention, sleep
Sources & References
Quick Reference
- Class
- Growth hormone secretagogue (ghrelin receptor agonist, GHRP class)
- Evidence Level
- Preclinical / early human
- Reported Uses
- 3 listed
- Tracking Metrics
- 5 suggested
- Citations
- 3 sources
Safety & Legal Notes
NOT FDA-approved for human use; primarily sold as a research chemical / 'research use only.' PROHIBITED in sport: growth hormone secretagogues and their mimetics are on the WADA Prohibited List (Section S2). Notable for raising appetite, cortisol, and prolactin more than selective GHRPs, which can be counterproductive for a fat-loss goal. Long-term human safety is not established. Consult a licensed clinician.
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