GHRP-2
D-alanyl-D-2-naphthylalanyl-L-alanyl-L-tryptophyl-D-phenylalanyl-L-lysinamide
GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2) is a synthetic hexapeptide developed as a second-generation growth hormone secretagogue by Bowers and colleagues in the early 1990s. Also known as pralmorelin in clinical literature, it potently stimulates growth hormone release through GHS-R1a receptor activation. GHRP-2 incorporates D-amino acids for enhanced stability and resistance to enzymatic degradation, making it significantly more potent than earlier analogs like GHRP-6.
GHRP-2 Dosing Guide
Primary Benefits
- Potent growth hormone release (10-15 fold increase in animal studies)
- Lean muscle mass increase (20-25% in research models)
- Significant fat reduction (15-20% decrease in studies)
- Enhanced IGF-1 production (30-40% increase after 24 hours)
- Improved metabolic function and energy balance
How It Works
GHRP-2 functions as a potent growth hormone secretagogue by binding to and activating the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a) located in the anterior pituitary gland and hypothalamus. This activation triggers calcium influx and subsequent growth hormone release through a pathway distinct from growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). GHRP-2 also mimics ghrelin's bioactive motif, engaging ghrelin pathways to influence appetite regulation and metabolic function. The peptide's unique structure, incorporating D-amino acids, provides resistance to peptidase degradation while maintaining high receptor affinity and bioactivity.
Quick Reference
Typical Dosage Range
Research protocols typically employ 100-300 mcg daily doses, administered subcutaneously. The optimal protocol involves 2-3 daily injections: 100 mcg upon waking (fasted state), 100 mcg pre-workout or mid-afternoon, and 100-200 mcg before bedtime. Clinical studies used single 1 µg/kg IV doses (approximately 70-100 mcg for average adults). Animal studies suggest saturation occurs around 1 mg/kg, indicating diminishing returns beyond 300-400 mcg in humans. Treatment cycles of 3-6 months with equal rest periods are commonly employed to maintain pituitary responsiveness.
Administration Methods
GHRP-2 is administered via subcutaneous injection using insulin syringes, typically into the abdominal area, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites to prevent tissue damage. Reconstitute lyophilized powder with bacteriostatic water at 1 mg/mL concentration. Administer on an empty stomach for optimal absorption, waiting at least 30 minutes before eating. Timing is crucial: morning doses should be taken immediately upon waking, while evening doses should be administered 2-3 hours after dinner and immediately before sleep to capitalize on natural growth hormone pulses.
What It's Used For
GHRP-2 is a growth hormone-releasing peptide that stimulates natural growth hormone production in the body. It works by binding to ghrelin receptors and triggering pulsatile GH release from the pituitary gland.
Muscle Growth & Strength
Increases lean muscle mass and improves strength gains from training.
Fat Loss
Enhances fat metabolism and improves body composition.
Recovery & Healing
Speeds up recovery from workouts and injuries by boosting GH and IGF-1 levels.
Anti-Aging Benefits
Improves skin elasticity, sleep quality, and overall vitality.
How Much to Take
Frequency
- Morning: Upon waking
- Post-workout: For recovery
- Before bed: Natural GH pulse
Timing
Empty stomach only - no food 60 minutes before/after injection
Adjustment
Start low: Begin with 100 mcg to assess tolerance
How Long to Use It
- Standard Cycle: Use for 8-12 weeks, followed by a 4-week break
- Extended Use: Can extend up to 16 weeks for advanced users
- Repeat Cycles: Can be cycled multiple times per year with proper breaks
- Results Timeline: Initial effects within 1-2 weeks
Cycling is Important
Don't exceed recommended cycle length to avoid desensitization. Take breaks between cycles to reset receptors.
Need-to-Know Information
How It Works
- GHRP-2 mimics ghrelin, the "hunger hormone," to stimulate GH release
- Creates natural GH pulses rather than constant elevation
- Also suppresses somatostatin, which normally inhibits GH production
Key Benefits
- Growth Hormone Release: 7-15x increase in natural GH production
- IGF-1 Production: Elevated IGF-1 levels for anabolic effects
- Appetite Stimulation: Moderate increase in hunger (less than GHRP-6)
- Sleep Enhancement: Deeper, more restorative sleep
Who Should Avoid It
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
- Those with active cancer or tumor growth
- People with severe insulin resistance or diabetes
Possible Side Effects
- Increased appetite (usually moderate)
- Water retention (mild)
- Tingling in hands/feet at high doses
- Temporary lethargy after injection
Storage & Injection
Mixing Instructions
Use bacteriostatic water to reconstitute. Add 2 mL to a 5 mg vial for 2.5 mg/mL concentration.
Storage
Mixed vials: fridge for 30 days. Unmixed powder: freezer for 1 year.
Injection Sites
Subcutaneous in stomach area, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate sites to prevent tissue damage.
Method
Clean site with alcohol. Pinch skin, insert at 45-degree angle, inject slowly.
Critical Timing
Empty stomach only - avoid high blood sugar, don't inject after eating carbs.
Example Schedule
Daily Protocol
If You Miss a Dose
Take as soon as you remember if it's been less than 2 hours. Otherwise, skip and continue with your normal schedule. Don't double dose.
Extra Tips for Best Results
Stack with CJC-1295
Combine 100 mcg GHRP-2 with 100 mcg CJC-1295 (no DAC) for synergistic effect. Can mix in same syringe.
Optimize Natural GH
Get 7-9 hours quality sleep. Keep body fat under 15% (men) or 25% (women). Avoid alcohol around injection times.
Monitor Your Response
Start with lower dose (100 mcg) to assess tolerance. Increase gradually if needed. Watch for water retention or joint pain.
Track Progress
Monitor body composition changes. Note improvements in recovery and sleep quality. Keep injection log for consistency.
Expected Results Timeline
Week 1-2: Improved sleep quality and recovery. Week 3-4: Increased energy and appetite. Week 6-8: Noticeable body composition changes. Week 8-12: Significant muscle gains and fat loss.
Important Safety Information
GHRP-2 is not FDA approved for human therapeutic use. Always consult healthcare providers before use, especially if you have medical conditions or take other medications. Follow institutional safety protocols.
Medical Disclaimer
GHRP-2 is an investigational research compound not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Any use should occur only under medical supervision in approved research settings.