Peptides / Growth hormone axis

Synthetic analog · 6 amino acids · 818 Da

GHRP-2

Approved in JapanBanned in sport

GHRP-2 is a synthetic peptide that acts on the ghrelin receptor to release growth hormone, and in Japan it is approved only as a one-time diagnostic test. Studies in people measured growth hormone, stress hormones and appetite, and it is banned in sport. PepBank shows 274 results on GHRP-2 from 71 studies in people, and 357 from animal and lab studies. The strongest evidence is a randomized trial in people. Data as of 2026-10-30.

Also known as KP-102, KP-102D, KP-102LN, WAY-GPA-748, Growth hormone-releasing peptide 2, Pralmorelin hydrochloride and 5 more

6 amino acids, from first to lastAXAWFK

Evidence level: Some studies in people274 of 632 results come from studies in people.

Results in people

274

43% of 632 results

Results in animals

235

37% of 632 results

Results in lab cells

122

19% of 632 results

From computer models

under 1% of 632 results

Overview

GHRP-2 at a glance

What it is	Synthetic analog, 6 amino acids
Approval	Approved in Japan only
In sport	Banned in sport (WADA S2.2.4)
Studies	202 studies with results. 150 of them gave GHRP-2, with 632 results. 274 in people235 in animals122 in lab cells1 from computer models
Best study in people	Randomized controlled trial with 124 people (2014)
Clinical trials	None registered
Community use	Raising growth hormone release (often called GH optimization or anti-aging); Lean mass and body composition, often in a bulking phase; Sleep quality and exercise recovery; Appetite stimulation (underweight people or a calorie surplus); Medical test in Japan: one-time injection to diagnose growth hormone deficiency (label use, not community use)

The science

What is GHRP-2?

Synthetic hexapeptide that activates the ghrelin receptor and releases growth hormone. In Japan it is approved only as a one-time diagnostic injection for growth hormone deficiency (pralmorelin). It is not approved as a treatment anywhere.

Amino acids in one chain

GHRP-2 structure and chemistry

The key facts about the molecule. Long codes are in the closed section below.

Sequence, 6 amino acidsFrom the first amino acid to the last

A1XAWF5+K

Darker means more water-repelling+ and − show charge in the bodyOutlined: changed amino acid

Structure

GHRP-2 is a synthetic analog of 6 amino acids, with no ring, 5 changed amino acids.

Formula

C₄₅H₅₅N₉O₆

Molecular weight

818 g/mol

CAS number

158861-67-7

Target

Growth hormone secretagogue receptor type 1 (ghrelin receptor) (gene GHSR): agonistEvidence: approved-drug label

Development

Kaken Pharmaceutical (Japan) holds the product. Adis lists Polygen (Germany) and Tulane University (US) as originators and Wyeth (US and Canada sublicence) as a developer. Highest phase: past the trial stage (see status).

Identifiers

PubChem 6918245, ChEMBL CHEMBL106593, UNII E6S6E1F19M, KEGG D02040, IUPHAR 1092

Full sequence, SMILES and InChIKey

Three-letter sequence
H-D-Ala-D-2Nal-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2

InChIKey
HRNLPPBUBKMZMT-RDRUQFPZSA-N

SMILES
C[C@H](C(=O)N[C@H](CC1=CC2=CC=CC=C2C=C1)C(=O)N[C@@H](C)C(=O)N[C@@H](CC3=CNC4=CC=CC=C43)C(=O)N[C@H](CC5=CC=CC=C5)C(=O)N[C@@H](CCCCN)C(=O)N)N

See charge, composition and 3D structure on the Scientific page

The evidence

What GHRP-2 studies show

Results grouped by what the studies measured. Each card shows where its results come from.

Some studies in people274 of 632 results come from studies in people.

Growth hormone and growth

311 results · 174 in people · 106 animal · 31 lab

In short children with GH deficiency, GHRP‑2 nasal spray did not change growth compared with placebo over 48 weeks. Clinical pediatric endocrinology, 2014

Top results

In short children with GH deficiency, GHRP‑2 nasal spray did not change growth compared with placebo over 48 weeks. (Clinical pediatric endocrinology, 2014)
In children with growth hormone deficiency, growth was faster during GHRP‑2 treatment than before and after treatment. (The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism, 1998)
In rats with and without arthritis, GHRP‑2 lowered IGFBP-5 gene activity in muscle. (American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolism, 2005)

Hormones

67 results · 55 in people · 10 animal · 2 lab

In 42 healthy men, GHRP‑2 raised peak cortisol more than saline, somatostatin or GHRH did. European journal of endocrinology, 2010

Top results

In 42 healthy men, GHRP‑2 raised peak cortisol more than saline, somatostatin or GHRH did. (European journal of endocrinology, 2010)
In postmenopausal women, GHRP‑2 raised prolactin slightly compared with saline. (The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism, 1999)
In postmenopausal women, GHRP‑2 did not change TSH levels. (The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism, 1999)

Weight and appetite

50 results · 12 in people · 38 animal

In lean and obese people, a low GHRP‑2 infusion made them eat about 10% more than placebo at a buffet lunch. Obesity, 2006

Top results

In lean and obese people, a low GHRP‑2 infusion made them eat about 10% more than placebo at a buffet lunch. (Obesity, 2006)
In children with growth hormone deficiency, body mass index showed a small rise during oral GHRP‑2 that was not statistically significant. (Journal of pediatric endocrinology & metabolism, 2003)
In children with growth hormone deficiency, seven of ten reported a clear rise in appetite during the first 6 months of oral GHRP‑2. (Journal of pediatric endocrinology & metabolism, 2003)

Sex hormones and fertility

4 results · 4 in people

In postmenopausal women, GHRP‑2 did not change LH levels. The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism, 1999

Top results

In postmenopausal women, GHRP‑2 did not change LH levels. (The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism, 1999)
In 10 healthy men, GHRP‑2 raised prolactin in the blood, with and without fasting. (Endocrine journal, 2010)
In postmenopausal women, GHRP‑2 did not change FSH levels. (The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism, 1999)

Daily life and fitness

5 results · 3 in people · 2 animal

One patient with anorexia nervosa felt less tired while using GHRP‑2. Journal of cachexia, sarcopenia and muscle, 2015

Top results

One patient with anorexia nervosa felt less tired while using GHRP‑2. (Journal of cachexia, sarcopenia and muscle, 2015)
One patient with anorexia nervosa had better muscle strength while using GHRP‑2. (Journal of cachexia, sarcopenia and muscle, 2015)
One patient with anorexia nervosa was more active in body and mind while using GHRP‑2. (Journal of cachexia, sarcopenia and muscle, 2015)

Salt, water and minerals

2 results · 2 in people

In 10 healthy men, GHRP‑2 injection did not change hematocrit. Endocrine journal, 2010

Top results

In 10 healthy men, GHRP‑2 injection did not change hematocrit. (Endocrine journal, 2010)
In 10 healthy men, GHRP‑2 injection did not change plasma osmolality. (Endocrine journal, 2010)

All 202 GHRP-2 studies by area Open the Scientific page

Key GHRP-2 studies

Studies in people come first, then studies in animals and in the lab.

People
Increased Secretion of Endogenous GH after Treatment with an Intranasal GH-releasing Peptide-2 Spray Does Not Promote Growth in Short Children with GH Deficiency
Tanaka et al. 2014 · Clinical pediatric endocrinology : case reports and clinical investigations : official journal of the Japanese Society for Pediatric Endocrinology · 124 people · cited by 5
2 results
People
Pre- versus postmenopausal age, estradiol, and peptide-secretagogue type determine pulsatile growth hormone secretion in healthy women: studies using submaximal agonist drive and an estrogen clamp
Hudson et al. 2010 · The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism · 42 people · cited by 11
1 result
People
Secretagogue type, sex-steroid milieu, and abdominal visceral adiposity individually determine secretagogue-stimulated cortisol secretion
Iranmanesh et al. 2010 · European journal of endocrinology · 42 people · cited by 1
2 results
People
Growth hormone-releasing peptide-2 infusion synchronizes growth hormone, thyrotrophin and prolactin release in prolonged critical illness
Van et al. 1999 · European journal of endocrinology · 28 people · cited by 26
1 result
People
Novel relationships of age, visceral adiposity, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I and IGF binding protein concentrations to growth hormone (GH) releasing-hormone and GH releasing-peptide efficacies in men during experimental hypogonadal clamp
Veldhuis et al. 2009 · The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism · 25 people · cited by 9
3 results

All 202 GHRP-2 studies

GHRP-2 clinical trials

ClinicalTrials.gov lists no trial of GHRP-2. A trial under another name may exist.

Status and safety

Is GHRP-2 approved?

FDA

United States

Not approved

No approved medicine contains it.

EMA

European Union

Not approved

No approved medicine contains it.

WADA

Sport

Banned

On the 2026 Prohibited List, section S2.2.4.

Yes. Approved in Japan only. No FDA approval and no central EU authorisation (EMA). Banned in sport (WADA S2.2.4).

Laws and labels change, so check the regulator for the current status.

GHRP-2 side effects and safety

PepBank has 19 safety results from studies of GHRP-2. 8 of them come from studies in people.

FDA text for the 503B category 2 entry: compounded drugs containing GHRP-2 for injectable and nasal administration may pose risk for immunogenicity due to the potential for aggregation and peptide-related impurities; GHRP-2 contains an unnatural amino acid, which adds to the complexity of peptide characterization; FDA is aware of reports of serious adverse events in patients who received GHRP-2, including increased insulin requirement to maintain the blood glucose level, death of critically ill study subjects, infection and pancreatitis, though causality has not been established. Reported by FDA, not confirmed in a study. FDA GSRS substance record, UNII E6S6E1F19M (pralmorelin)

Safety results from studies (19)

In postmenopausal women, GHRP‑2 raised prolactin slightly compared with saline. (The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism, 1999)
The GHRP‑2 test was reported as safe in children, but the abstract gives no event numbers. (Journal of pediatric endocrinology & metabolism, 2010)
In children with short stature, intranasal GHRP‑2 was well tolerated, according to the study authors. (The Journal of endocrinology, 1997)
In 10 healthy men, GHRP‑2 injection did not change blood pressure. (Endocrine journal, 2010)
In children with growth hormone deficiency, no side effects or toxic effects were seen with GHRP‑2. (The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism, 1998)
In children of short stature, the nasal GHRP‑2 preparation was well tolerated. (The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism, 1995)
One patient had no obvious side effects from a year of GHRP‑2 nasal spray. (Journal of cachexia, sarcopenia and muscle, 2015)
In postmenopausal women, GHRP‑2 raised cortisol slightly compared with saline. (The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism, 1999)
In rabbit hearts, no signs of more cell death were seen in any group. (Endocrinology, 2000)
In animals, KP-102 at a pharmacological dose had no obvious effect on the brain and nervous system. (Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2004)
In animals, KP-102 had no significant effect on the autonomic nervous system or smooth muscle, apart from a small ileum effect. (Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2004)
In animals, KP-102 had a negligible effect on breathing. (Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2004)
In animals, KP-102 had a negligible effect on the heart and blood vessels. (Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2004)
In animals, KP-102 had a negligible effect on digestion. (Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2004)
In animals, KP-102 had a negligible effect on kidney function. (Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2004)
In animals, KP-102 had a negligible effect on the blood. (Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2004)
In isolated rat hearts, KP-102 did not change the heart rate. (Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology, 2006)
In lab tests on rabbit gut tissue, high doses of KP-102 caused a slight, short rise in movement. (Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2004)
In lab tests on guinea pig gut tissue, high doses of KP-102 caused a slight, short contraction. (Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2004)

See every safety result on the Scientific page

Doses studied (40 shown)

The doses that these studies used. They are not recommendations.

Dose as reported	Class	Species	Route	Duration	Design	Source
50 or 100 µg (low) and 100 or 200 µg (high) by body weight, twice daily	Human	human	intranasal spray	48 weeks	Randomized trial in people · n = 124	Tanaka 2014
0.33 mug/kg	Human	human	iv bolus	Not reported	Randomized trial in people · n = 42	Hudson 2010
1 microg/kg/h	Human	human	continuous infusion	21 hours	Randomized trial in people · n = 28	Van 1999
0.1 microg/kg per hour	Human	human	subcutaneous infusion	270 minutes	Randomized trial in people · n = 19	Laferrère 2006
1 mug/kg per hour	Human	human	subcutaneous infusion	270 minutes	Randomized trial in people · n = 19	Laferrère 2006
1 microg/kg bolus	Human	human	intravenous	Not reported	Randomized trial in people · n = 18	Wideman 2000
0.03-3 microg/kg	Human	human	intravenous bolus	Not reported	Randomized trial in people · n = 10	Anderson 2001
1 microg/kg x h	Human	human	intravenous	24 h	Randomized trial in people · n = 10	Shah 2000
1 microg/kg/h	Human	human	infusion	5 days	Randomized trial in people · n = 9	Van 2002
1 microgram/kg	Human	human	intravenous	Not reported	Randomized trial in people · n = 9	Tuilpakov 1995
1 microgram/kg BW	Human	human	intravenous	Not reported	Randomized trial in people · n = 8	Tiulpakov 1995
1 microg/kg x h	Human	human	intravenous	24 hours	Randomized trial in people · n = 7	Shah 1999
1 microgram/kg body wt	Human	human	intravenous	single bolus injection	Randomized trial in people · n = 7	Moreno-Reyes 1998
1 microgram/kg per h after a 1 microgram/kg bolus	Human	human	intravenous	Not reported	Randomized trial in people	Van 1998
1 microgram/kg bolus then 1 microgram/kg/h	Human	human	infusion	21 h	Randomized trial in people	Van 1997
1 microgram/kg bolus, then 1 microgram/kg/h	Human	human	infusion	21 hours	Randomized trial in people	Van 1997
1 microgram/kg	Human	human	intravenous	Not reported	Randomized trial in people	Van 1996
1 microgram/kg bolus then 1 microgram/kg.h	Human	human	infusion	overnight infusion from 0900 h until 0600 h	Randomized trial in people	Van 1998
100 microg	Human	human	intravenous	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 135	Chihara 2007
2 microg/kg	Human	human	intravenous	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 56	Asakura 2010
1 microg/kg	Human	human	Not reported	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 30	Van 2000
1 microg/kg.h	Human	human	subcutaneous	30 days	Trial in people without random groups · n = 17	Bowers 2004
5-15 micrograms/kg twice a day for 3 months, then three times a day	Human	human	intranasal	6 months	Trial in people without random groups · n = 15	Pihoker 1997
5-20 micrograms/kg	Human	human	intranasal	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 15	Pihoker 1997
1 microgram/kg	Human	human	intravenous	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 15	Pihoker 1997
5-20 micrograms/kg per dose	Human	human	intranasal	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 15	Pihoker 1995
15 micrograms/kg	Human	human	intranasal	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 15	Pihoker 1995
100 μg	Human	human	intravenous	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 10	Okano 2010
900 microg/kg b.i.d.	Human	human	oral	12 months	Trial in people without random groups · n = 10	Mericq 2003
1 microg/kg	Human	human	intravenous	single dose over 1 min	Trial in people without random groups · n = 10	Pihoker 1998
10 microg/kg	Human	human	subcutaneous	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 10	Bowers 2001
0.1 microg/kg	Human	human	Not reported	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 10	Bowers 2001
1 microg/kg/h	Human	human	subcutaneous	30 days	Trial in people without random groups · n = 10	Bowers 2001
100 microg	Human	human	intravenous bolus	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 10	Kamoi 2010
100 microg	Human	human	subcutaneous	5 days	Trial in people without random groups · n = 9	Nijland 1998
200 microg	Human	human	intravenous	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 8	Maas 2000
1 microg/kg/h	Human	human	subcutaneous	270 minutes	Trial in people without random groups · n = 7	Laferrère 2005
2.0 microg/kg	Human	human	intravenous	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 7	Arvat 1999
1 microg/kg	Human	human	intravenous	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 6	Arvat 1997
2.0 microg/kg	Human	human	intravenous	Not reported	Trial in people without random groups · n = 6	Arvat 1997

From the community

How people use it

What people report online. It comes from forums and guides, not from studies.

Community-reported. Not tested in trials.

Community sources describe GHRP-2 as a growth hormone releasing peptide that people inject under the skin, usually 2 to 3 times a day on an empty stomach, for 8 to 12 weeks. It is often paired with a GHRH analog such as CJC-1295 without DAC. Sources report increased hunger after the injection.

Reported routines and cautions

What people use it for

Raising growth hormone release (often called GH optimization or anti-aging)S1S2S4S5
Lean mass and body composition, often in a bulking phaseS1S2S3S6
Sleep quality and exercise recoveryS1S2
Appetite stimulation (underweight people or a calorie surplus)S1S3
Medical test in Japan: one-time injection to diagnose growth hormone deficiency (label use, not community use)S8 S12

Reported regimens

Regimens that community sources report for GHRP-2. Community-reported, not tested in trials.
Context	Route	Amount	How often	How long	Agreement	Sources
Japan: one-time test to diagnose growth hormone deficiency (GHRP Kaken 100, Kaken Pharmaceutical)Official label dosing of an approved product	intravenous slow injectiongiven on an empty stomach; the powder is dissolved in 10 mL of saline just before use	100 mcg per dose for adults aged 18 and over	Not stated	Not stated	label	S8
General growth hormone release (often called GH optimization or anti-aging)	subcutaneous injectionmost sources say to inject on an empty stomach	100 to 200 mcg per dose	two to three times daily; sources also give once daily or up to three times	8 to 12 weeks, then a break	sources agree on about 100 to 200 mcg per dose, 2 to 3 times daily, for 8 to 12 weeks (S1, S2, S3); S2 and S3 also give doses up to 300 mcg. S1 and S2 carry seller links. S3 is a database page. S5 and S6 are single forum replies in threads where other members post seller or sponsor links. S1 lists Reddit among its own sources, so it is a compiled page and not an independent report.	S1S2S3S5S6
Stack with a GHRH analog (CJC-1295 without DAC, Mod GRF 1-29)	subcutaneous injectionthe two peptides are often drawn into one syringe	100 to 200 mcg per dose of each peptide	one to three times daily; one forum post says up to 5 times	8 to 16 weeks	sources agree on about 100 mcg of each peptide, 2 to 3 times daily (S1, S7); S2 gives 100 to 200 mcg of each. S1 and S2 carry seller links. S7 is a forum thread started to promote a seller.	S1S2S3S7
Single dose before bed	subcutaneous injection	100 to 200 mcg per dose	once daily before bed	8 to 12 weeks	2 sources agree on once daily before bed for 8 to 12 weeks; they differ on the amount (200 mcg in S1, 100 mcg in S2). Both are wikis with seller links.	S1S2
Paired with ipamorelin	Not statedthe quoted posts do not name a route	250 mcg per day of each peptide	a day (the post does not say how many injections)	Not stated	single source for the amount (one forum post). The forum carries seller and sponsor links in posts.	S4S5
Appetite use (underweight people or a calorie surplus)	subcutaneous injectiontimed 30 minutes before meals	100 to 200 mcg per dose	2 to 3 times daily, 30 minutes before meals	4 to 8 weeks	single source (a wiki that carries seller links)	S1

Reported side effects

increased hunger, often within 30 to 60 minutes of the injectionS1S2S3S4S5S7
rise in cortisol, ACTH and prolactinS1S2S3
flushing or warmth, head rush right after injectingS2S3
drowsiness, mostly with evening dosesS2
water retention, puffy hands and wristsS2S3
numbness or tingling in the fingers or extremitiesS2S3
lethargy or flat mood in some usersS3
lower insulin sensitivity or higher blood glucose with long useS2S3

Reported benefits (claims, not shown in trials)

a larger growth hormone pulse than ipamorelinS1S3
better sleep, especially when dosed before bedS1S2
faster recovery from exerciseS1S2
gradual gains in body composition over 2 to 4 monthsS1

Cautions

FDA says compounded drugs with GHRP-2 for injectable and nasal use may pose a risk of immune reactions because of aggregation and peptide-related impurities. It also says it knows of reports of serious adverse events in patients who received GHRP-2, including increased insulin requirement, death of critically ill study subjects, infection and pancreatitis, and that cause has not been established.S9
A McGill article (2023) says growth hormone releasing peptides are so poorly studied that labs often do not know how they are metabolized.S11
The wiki reports that product quality varies between vendors. It also says most community users combine GHRP-2 with GHRH analogs, so effects are hard to assign to one peptide.S1
Peptidepedia says no FDA-approved dosing guidelines exist for GHRP-2.S2
One database page lists active or suspected malignancy, uncontrolled diabetes or significant insulin resistance, and pregnancy and breastfeeding among the reasons not to use it.S3
The Japanese label names pregnancy as a contraindication for the diagnostic injection.S12
Sources say people inject on an empty stomach.S1S3

Status notes

FDA: no approved GHRP-2 product. FDA lists GHRP-2 for injectable and nasal use in 503B category 2 (added 2023-09-29).S9
Japan: approved only as a one-time diagnostic injection for growth hormone deficiency (GHRP Kaken 100, Kaken Pharmaceutical).S8 S11 S12
WADA: GHRP-2 (pralmorelin) is named in S2.2.4 of the Prohibited List. It is prohibited at all times.S10

Community sources

S1GHRP-2 Community Protocols & Anecdotal Reportspeptideprotocolwiki.comcarries seller links, not linked
S2GHRP-2: Potent Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide Guidepeptidepedia.orgcarries seller links, not linked
S3GHRP-2: Dosage, Half-Life & Reconstitution (peptide database page) (opens in a new tab)jackedforums.com
S4ghrp-2 and ipamorelin for anti aging (thread, 2025-09-29)elitefitness.comcarries seller links, not linked
S5GHRP-6 or should I go with the 2 version? (thread, 2026-06-18)elitefitness.comcarries seller links, not linked
S6GHRP-2 dosing help (thread, 2025-04-15)meso-morph.comcarries seller links, not linked
S7How to inject Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2 (GHRP-2) results, reviews, buy (thread, 2014-09-23)musclechemistry.comcarries seller links, not linked
S8GHRP KAKEN 100 Injection, product and package insert text (KEGG MEDICUS / JAPIC) (opens in a new tab)kegg.jp
S9Certain Bulk Drug Substances for Use in Compounding that May Present Significant Safety Risks (opens in a new tab)fda.gov
S10WADA 2026 Prohibited List (S2.2.4) (opens in a new tab)wada-ama.org
S11The Human Lab Rats Injecting Themselves with Peptides (opens in a new tab)mcgill.ca
S12Package insert, Chuusha-you GHRP Kaken 100 (PMDA, 3rd edition, 2025-07) (opens in a new tab)pmda.go.jp

Gaps

No Reddit page was used, because Reddit cannot be fetched. Evolutionary.org and GLP-1 Forum threads about GHRP-2 returned HTTP 403 to the quote checker, so they were not used. No Longecity, ThinkSteroids or Meso-Rx page with amounts was found beyond one Meso-Morph thread; no harm-reduction page with community amounts was found. Five of the six community sources are wikis or forum threads that carry seller or sponsor links, so the amounts rest mostly on compiled pages and single replies. One Meso-Morph reply writes '150mgs'; it is read as a typo and not used as an amount. The Meso-Morph opening post (250 mcg every other day, 'in the old days') is a question and is not used. No amount was found for the nasal route or for intramuscular use, although S3 and S2 name those routes. No source gave a cycle length for the ipamorelin pairing (R5) or any amount for combining with sermorelin. R5 and R6 each rest on one source. The label regimen R1 is a diagnostic test and is not a treatment course.

Questions and more

Ask a question about GHRP-2

The answer links to every study it uses.

What does the evidence say about GHRP-2?Is GHRP-2 tested in people?Compare with GHRP-6 Compare with Hexarelin

Sources

Database: PepBank data for GHRP-2 (data version 308560)
Regulator: FDA status record
Regulator: EMA status record
Regulator: WADA status record
Community: community sources (forums and guides), as summarized in the PepBank community file

AI wrote and checked these results. AI can make mistakes, so check important results against the source.

PepBank is a research reference. Talk to a doctor before you use any peptide.

Ask your AI about GHRP-2

Curo is a peptide shop. PepBank and Curo have the same owner. See the Curo catalog (opens in a new tab).

GHRP-2

Approved in JapanBanned in sport

Also known as KP-102, KP-102D, KP-102LN, WAY-GPA-748, Growth hormone-releasing peptide 2, Pralmorelin hydrochloride and 5 more

What it is

Synthetic analog, 6 amino acids

Approval

Approved in Japan only

In sport

Banned in sport (WADA S2.2.4)

Studies

202 studies with results. 150 of them gave GHRP-2, with 632 results.
274 in people235 in animals122 in lab cells1 from computer models

Best study in people

Randomized controlled trial with 124 people (2014)

Clinical trials

None registered

Community use

Raising growth hormone release (often called GH optimization or anti-aging); Lean mass and body composition, often in a bulking phase; Sleep quality and exercise recovery; Appetite stimulation (underweight people or a calorie surplus); Medical test in Japan: one-time injection to diagnose growth hormone deficiency (label use, not community use)

Dose as reported

Class

Species

Route

Duration

Design

Source

50 or 100 µg (low) and 100 or 200 µg (high) by body weight, twice daily

Human

human

intranasal spray

48 weeks

Randomized trial in people · n = 124

Tanaka 2014

0.33 mug/kg

Human

human

iv bolus

Not reported

Randomized trial in people · n = 42

Hudson 2010

1 microg/kg/h

Human

human

continuous infusion

21 hours

Randomized trial in people · n = 28

Van 1999

0.1 microg/kg per hour

Human

human

subcutaneous infusion

270 minutes

Randomized trial in people · n = 19

Laferrère 2006

1 mug/kg per hour

Human

human

subcutaneous infusion

270 minutes

Randomized trial in people · n = 19

Laferrère 2006

1 microg/kg bolus

Human

human

intravenous

Not reported

Randomized trial in people · n = 18

Wideman 2000

0.03-3 microg/kg

Human

human

intravenous bolus

Not reported

Randomized trial in people · n = 10

Anderson 2001

1 microg/kg x h

Human

human

intravenous

24 h

Randomized trial in people · n = 10

Shah 2000

1 microg/kg/h

Human

human

infusion

5 days

Randomized trial in people · n = 9

Van 2002

1 microgram/kg

Human

human

intravenous

Not reported

Randomized trial in people · n = 9

Tuilpakov 1995

1 microgram/kg BW

Human

human

intravenous

Not reported

Randomized trial in people · n = 8

Tiulpakov 1995

1 microg/kg x h

Human

human

intravenous

24 hours

Randomized trial in people · n = 7

Shah 1999

1 microgram/kg body wt

Human

human

intravenous

single bolus injection

Randomized trial in people · n = 7

Moreno-Reyes 1998

1 microgram/kg per h after a 1 microgram/kg bolus

Human

human

intravenous

Not reported

Randomized trial in people

Van 1998

1 microgram/kg bolus then 1 microgram/kg/h

Human

human

infusion

21 h

Randomized trial in people

Van 1997

1 microgram/kg bolus, then 1 microgram/kg/h

Human

human

infusion

21 hours

Randomized trial in people

Van 1997

1 microgram/kg

Human

human

intravenous

Not reported

Randomized trial in people

Van 1996

1 microgram/kg bolus then 1 microgram/kg.h

Human

human

infusion

overnight infusion from 0900 h until 0600 h

Randomized trial in people

Van 1998

100 microg

Human

human

intravenous

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 135

Chihara 2007

2 microg/kg

Human

human

intravenous

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 56

Asakura 2010

1 microg/kg

Human

human

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 30

Van 2000

1 microg/kg.h

Human

human

subcutaneous

30 days

Trial in people without random groups · n = 17

Bowers 2004

5-15 micrograms/kg twice a day for 3 months, then three times a day

Human

human

intranasal

6 months

Trial in people without random groups · n = 15

Pihoker 1997

5-20 micrograms/kg

Human

human

intranasal

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 15

Pihoker 1997

1 microgram/kg

Human

human

intravenous

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 15

Pihoker 1997

5-20 micrograms/kg per dose

Human

human

intranasal

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 15

Pihoker 1995

15 micrograms/kg

Human

human

intranasal

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 15

Pihoker 1995

100 μg

Human

human

intravenous

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 10

Okano 2010

900 microg/kg b.i.d.

Human

human

oral

12 months

Trial in people without random groups · n = 10

Mericq 2003

1 microg/kg

Human

human

intravenous

single dose over 1 min

Trial in people without random groups · n = 10

Pihoker 1998

10 microg/kg

Human

human

subcutaneous

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 10

Bowers 2001

0.1 microg/kg

Human

human

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 10

Bowers 2001

1 microg/kg/h

Human

human

subcutaneous

30 days

Trial in people without random groups · n = 10

Bowers 2001

100 microg

Human

human

intravenous bolus

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 10

Kamoi 2010

100 microg

Human

human

subcutaneous

5 days

Trial in people without random groups · n = 9

Nijland 1998

200 microg

Human

human

intravenous

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 8

Maas 2000

1 microg/kg/h

Human

human

subcutaneous

270 minutes

Trial in people without random groups · n = 7

Laferrère 2005

2.0 microg/kg

Human

human

intravenous

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 7

Arvat 1999

1 microg/kg

Human

human

intravenous

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 6

Arvat 1997

2.0 microg/kg

Human

human

intravenous

Not reported

Trial in people without random groups · n = 6

Arvat 1997

Context

Route

Amount

How often

How long

Agreement

Sources

Japan: one-time test to diagnose growth hormone deficiency (GHRP Kaken 100, Kaken Pharmaceutical)Official label dosing of an approved product

intravenous slow injectiongiven on an empty stomach; the powder is dissolved in 10 mL of saline just before use

100 mcg per dose for adults aged 18 and over

Not stated

label

General growth hormone release (often called GH optimization or anti-aging)

subcutaneous injectionmost sources say to inject on an empty stomach

100 to 200 mcg per dose

two to three times daily; sources also give once daily or up to three times

8 to 12 weeks, then a break

sources agree on about 100 to 200 mcg per dose, 2 to 3 times daily, for 8 to 12 weeks (S1, S2, S3); S2 and S3 also give doses up to 300 mcg. S1 and S2 carry seller links. S3 is a database page. S5 and S6 are single forum replies in threads where other members post seller or sponsor links. S1 lists Reddit among its own sources, so it is a compiled page and not an independent report.

S1S2S3S5S6

Stack with a GHRH analog (CJC-1295 without DAC, Mod GRF 1-29)

subcutaneous injectionthe two peptides are often drawn into one syringe

100 to 200 mcg per dose of each peptide

one to three times daily; one forum post says up to 5 times

8 to 16 weeks

sources agree on about 100 mcg of each peptide, 2 to 3 times daily (S1, S7); S2 gives 100 to 200 mcg of each. S1 and S2 carry seller links. S7 is a forum thread started to promote a seller.

S1S2S3S7

Single dose before bed

subcutaneous injection

100 to 200 mcg per dose

once daily before bed

8 to 12 weeks

2 sources agree on once daily before bed for 8 to 12 weeks; they differ on the amount (200 mcg in S1, 100 mcg in S2). Both are wikis with seller links.

S1S2

Paired with ipamorelin

Not statedthe quoted posts do not name a route

250 mcg per day of each peptide

a day (the post does not say how many injections)

Not stated

single source for the amount (one forum post). The forum carries seller and sponsor links in posts.

S4S5

Appetite use (underweight people or a calorie surplus)

subcutaneous injectiontimed 30 minutes before meals

100 to 200 mcg per dose

2 to 3 times daily, 30 minutes before meals

4 to 8 weeks

single source (a wiki that carries seller links)

GHRP-2

GHRP-2 at a glance

What is GHRP-2?

GHRP-2 structure and chemistry

What GHRP-2 studies show

Growth hormone and growth

Hormones

Weight and appetite

Sex hormones and fertility

Daily life and fitness

Salt, water and minerals

Key GHRP-2 studies

GHRP-2 clinical trials

Is GHRP-2 approved?

GHRP-2 side effects and safety

How people use it

What people use it for

Reported regimens

Reported side effects

Reported benefits (claims, not shown in trials)

Cautions

Status notes

Community sources

Ask a question about GHRP-2

Related peptides

Sources

GHRP-2

GHRP-2 at a glance

What is GHRP-2?

GHRP-2 structure and chemistry

What GHRP-2 studies show

Growth hormone and growth

Hormones

Weight and appetite

Sex hormones and fertility

Daily life and fitness

Salt, water and minerals

Key GHRP-2 studies

GHRP-2 clinical trials

Is GHRP-2 approved?

GHRP-2 side effects and safety

How people use it

What people use it for

Reported regimens

Reported side effects

Reported benefits (claims, not shown in trials)

Cautions

Status notes

Community sources

Ask a question about GHRP-2

Related peptides

Sources