Hexarelin
Also known as: Examorelin, HEX
Popular For
GH release, cardiac protection, muscle growth
Key Facts: Hexarelin
- Category
- Growth Hormone
- FDA Status
- Not FDA Approved
- Clinical Status
- Investigational - Clinical trials conducted
- Administration
- Subcutaneous injection
- Typical Dose
- 100-200 mcg 2-3x daily
- Frequency
- 2-3x daily
- Evidence Level
- Human Trials
- Duration
- 4-8 weeks (desensitization occurs)
Mechanism of Action
Hexarelin activates ghrelin receptors (GHSR-1a) causing potent GH release. Uniquely, it also binds to CD36 receptors in cardiac tissue, providing cardioprotective effects independent of GH. Causes significant cortisol and prolactin elevation.
Research Summary
Studies show the highest GH release among GHRPs but with desensitization over time. Cardiac research demonstrates protection against ischemia and improved heart function. Used in GH deficiency diagnosis due to reliable GH stimulation.
Dosing Information
Typical Dosingⓘ
Community experience
100-200 mcg 2-3x daily
100-300 mcg per dose
2-3x daily
Most potent GHRP for GH release but causes more desensitization. Usually cycled 4 weeks on, 4 weeks off.
Research Dosingⓘ
Scientific studies
Doses from research studies
Doses from Studies
100-200 mcg per injection
Duration
4-8 weeks (desensitization occurs)
Administration
Subcutaneous injection
Timing & Administration
Best Time to Take
Morning and before bed (fasted)
2-3 times daily, always fasted
Food Recommendation
Take on empty stomach
Why This Timing?
Hexarelin requires fasted state for optimal GH release. Split dosing maximizes GH pulses throughout the day.
Possible Side Effects
Not everyone experiences these effects. Individual responses vary based on dosage, duration, and personal factors.
- ●Increased appetite
- ●Water retention
- ●Tingling/numbness
- ●Elevated cortisol and prolactin
- ●Flushing
- ●Headache
- ●May trigger histamine release - use caution with MCAS or histamine sensitivity
- ●Receptor desensitization with continuous use
References
Related Peptides
Peptides commonly compared with Hexarelin or used in similar applications.
Ipamorelin
Clinical TrialsA selective growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates GH release without significantly affecting cortisol or prolactin. Considered one of the safest GHRPs.
Growth HormoneMK-677
Clinical TrialsAn orally active growth hormone secretagogue that mimics ghrelin. Although technically not a peptide, it is frequently discussed alongside GH peptides due to similar effects.
Growth HormoneCJC-1295
Clinical TrialsA synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) that stimulates GH release from the pituitary. Often combined with a GHRP like Ipamorelin for synergistic effects.
Growth HormoneTesamorelin
FDAAn FDA-approved GHRH analog used to reduce excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy. New F8 formulation (Egrifta WR) approved March 2025 allows weekly reconstitution vs daily.
Growth HormoneGHRP-6
Clinical TrialsOne of the first synthetic GH secretagogues developed. Strongly stimulates GH release and significantly increases appetite through ghrelin receptor activation.
Growth HormoneGHRP-2
Clinical TrialsA synthetic hexapeptide that potently stimulates GH release. More potent than GHRP-6 with less appetite stimulation, but still elevates cortisol and prolactin.
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