Growth Hormone Secretagogue Peptides
Explore growth hormone profiles and evidence guides by mechanism, research stage, safety context, and primary sources.
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Category membership organizes related research questions. It does not establish effectiveness, approval, or suitability for a person.
Evidence boundary
A short growth-hormone pulse, integrated exposure, IGF-1 concentration, and a clinical outcome are different endpoints with different safety implications.
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Ipamorelin vs CJC-1295
Compare receptor targets, hormone patterns, evidence, and limitations.
Read guideIpamorelin vs GHRPs
Compare secretagogue mechanisms, selectivity, and research maturity.
Read guideGH–IGF-1 biology
Understand feedback, binding proteins, laboratory measures, and approved uses.
Read guideProfiles in this research area
Open a profile for its mechanism, evidence stage, safety context, and linked references.
CJC-1295 (without DAC)CJC-1295 without DAC (Modified GRF 1-29) is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone with four amino acid substitutions that enhance met…IpamorelinIpamorelin is a highly selective growth hormone secretagogue pentapeptide that binds the ghrelin receptor without affecting ACTH, prolactin, or cortis…SermorelinSermorelin is a synthetic 29-amino acid analogue of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) used to assess and stimulate natural growth hormone secret…TesamorelinTesamorelin is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analogue approved under the brand name Egrifta for the reduction of excess abdomina…AnamorelinOrally active, selective ghrelin (GHSR1a) receptor agonist developed for cancer anorexia-cachexia; approved in Japan for cachexia in several cancers.AOD-9604AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone (amino acids 177-191) that stimulates lipolysis and fat metabolism without affecting IGF-1 lev…BPC-157 / TB-500 BlendA research peptide blend combining BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound) and TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4 fragment), two tissue-repair peptides with complemen…CJC-1295 / GHRP-2 BlendA research peptide blend combining CJC-1295 (no DAC) and GHRP-2, two growth hormone secretagogues that act on distinct receptor pathways (GHRH-R and G…CJC-1295 / GHRP-6 BlendA research peptide blend combining CJC-1295 (no DAC), a GHRH analogue, with GHRP-6, a synthetic ghrelin analogue, to synergistically elevate growth ho…CJC-1295 / Hexarelin BlendA research peptide blend combining CJC-1295 (no DAC) and Hexarelin, two growth hormone secretagogues studied for their synergistic effects on GH relea…CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin / GHRP-2 BlendA triple-peptide research blend combining CJC-1295 (GHRH analogue), Ipamorelin, and GHRP-2 (two mechanistically distinct ghrelin receptor agonists), d…CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin BlendA research peptide blend combining CJC-1295 (Mod GRF 1-29), a GHRH analogue, with Ipamorelin, a selective ghrelin receptor agonist, to achieve synergi…CJC-1295 with DACCJC-1295 DAC is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analogue consisting of the first 29 amino acids of GHRH, conjugated with a drug af…CJC/IPA ProtocolThe CJC/IPA protocol combines CJC-1295 (no DAC) with Ipamorelin to synergistically stimulate growth hormone release through complementary mechanisms o…EGF (Epidermal Growth Factor)EGF is a 53-amino acid polypeptide that binds the EGF receptor to stimulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival, with applications in wo…GHRELINGhrelin is a 28-amino-acid peptide hormone primarily produced by X/A-like cells of the gastric fundus, functioning as the endogenous ligand for the gr…GHRH (Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone)GHRH is a 44-amino acid endogenous hypothalamic peptide that stimulates pulsatile growth hormone release from the anterior pituitary. It is the primar…GHRP-1GHRP-1 is the first synthetic growth hormone releasing peptide discovered by Cyril Bowers, acting as a ghrelin receptor agonist with historical signif…
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GHRP-2GHRP-2 (pralmorelin) is a synthetic growth hormone secretagogue that binds the ghrelin receptor, with research applications in muscle preservation, ap…GHRP-4GHRP-4 is a synthetic hexapeptide analog in the growth hormone releasing peptide series, acting as a ghrelin receptor agonist with limited published c…GHRP-6GHRP-6 is a synthetic ghrelin receptor agonist and growth hormone secretagogue with research applications in neuroprotection, memory, wound healing, c…GHRP-7GHRP-7 is an obscure modified hexapeptide analog in the growth hormone releasing peptide series with very limited published data, representing one of …HexarelinHexarelin is a synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue and ghrelin analogue with potent cardioprotective effects, muscle-preserving properti…HGHHuman growth hormone, a 191-amino acid peptide hormone produced by the pituitary gland that regulates growth, body composition, metabolism, and cellul…IGF-1IGF-1 is an endogenous 70-amino acid polypeptide structurally similar to insulin that mediates most of growth hormone's anabolic effects. It plays cri…IGF-1 DESDes(1-3) IGF-1 is a truncated form of insulin-like growth factor-1 missing the first three amino acids, resulting in dramatically reduced IGFBP bindin…IGF-1 LR3IGF-1 LR3 is a synthetic modified construct of insulin-like growth factor-1 with an extended half-life that enhances cell division, fat metabolism, an…IGF-2IGF-2 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 2) is a 67 amino acid peptide hormone critical for fetal growth and development, regulated by genomic imprinting. It…IPA Blend (CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin)A research peptide blend combining CJC-1295 (Mod GRF 1-29, 5mg) with Ipamorelin (10mg), pairing a GHRH analogue with a selective ghrelin receptor agon…KGF (Keratinocyte Growth Factor)KGF (FGF-7) is a 163-amino acid growth factor that specifically targets keratinocytes via the FGFR2-IIIb receptor, with clinical applications in mucos…MacimorelinOrally active ghrelin (GHSR1a) agonist and growth-hormone secretagogue, FDA-approved as a diagnostic test for adult growth hormone deficiency.Mechano Growth Factor (MGF)Mechano Growth Factor (MGF) is the C-terminal splice variant of IGF-1 (IGF-1Ec in humans) produced in response to mechanical loading, activating muscl…MGFMechano Growth Factor, a splice variant of IGF-1 produced in response to mechanical stress, that activates muscle satellite cells and promotes localiz…Mod GRF / Ipamorelin / GHRP-2 BlendA triple-peptide research blend combining Mod GRF 1-29 (a modified GHRH analogue), Ipamorelin, and GHRP-2 (both ghrelin receptor agonists), designed t…PEG-MGFPEG-MGF (PEGylated Mechano-Growth Factor) is a modified form of IGF-1 that stimulates myoblast proliferation and differentiation, with research applic…SemaglutideSemaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics the incretin hormone GLP-1 to regulate blood sugar, reduce appetite, and promote weight loss. It i…Sermorelin / GHRP-2 BlendA research peptide blend combining Sermorelin (a GHRH analogue) and GHRP-2 (a ghrelin receptor agonist), studied for synergistic amplification of grow…Sermorelin / GHRP-6 / GHRP-2 BlendA triple-peptide research blend combining Sermorelin (a GHRH analogue) with GHRP-6 and GHRP-2 (both ghrelin receptor agonists), studied for synergisti…Sermorelin / GHRP-6 BlendA research peptide blend combining Sermorelin (a GHRH analogue) and GHRP-6 (a synthetic ghrelin analogue), studied for synergistic enhancement of grow…Sermorelin / Ipamorelin BlendA research peptide blend combining Sermorelin (a GHRH analogue) and Ipamorelin (a selective ghrelin receptor agonist), studied for synergistic amplifi…SOMATOSTATINSomatostatin (SRIF, somatotropin release-inhibiting factor) is a cyclic tetradecapeptide hormone that inhibits growth hormone secretion, regulates gas…Somatropin (rHGH)Somatropin is recombinant human growth hormone (rHGH), a 191-amino acid protein identical to endogenous pituitary-derived growth hormone. It is FDA-ap…Super Human Blend (CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin + BPC-157 + TB-500)The Super Human Blend is a compounded four-peptide combination of CJC-1295 (GHRH analog), Ipamorelin (GH secretagogue), BPC-157 (tissue repair peptide…Super Shred (AOD-9604 + CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin)The Super Shred blend is a compounded three-peptide fat loss stack combining AOD-9604 (anti-obesity GH fragment), CJC-1295 (GHRH analog), and Ipamorel…Tesa/IPA ProtocolA combination peptide protocol pairing Tesamorelin (a GHRH analog) with Ipamorelin (a selective GHRP) to synergistically amplify pulsatile growth horm…VosoritideA modified analog of C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) that counteracts overactive FGFR3 signaling to promote bone growth in children with achondroplas…
Read the full category research notes
These notes map terminology and research themes. Verify claims in the linked profile references and current primary records.
Growth Hormone Secretagogue Peptides
This category covers peptides that stimulate the pituitary gland to release growth hormone (GH) through two complementary receptor pathways: GHRH receptors (activated by GHRH analogues) and ghrelin/GHS receptors (activated by growth hormone secretagogue peptides). Many are studied in combination for synergistic GH amplification.
Complete Peptide Directory
GHRH Analogues
| Peptide | Description | Primary Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Sermorelin | GHRH(1-29) analogue that stimulates natural pulsatile GH release | GHRH receptor agonist; studied for cardiac repair, sleep, bone density |
| CJC-1295 | Modified GHRH analogue with enhanced protease resistance | GHRH receptor agonist with extended half-life |
| CJC-1295 DAC | CJC-1295 with Drug Affinity Complex for albumin binding | Ultra-long half-life GHRH agonist for sustained GH/IGF-1 elevation |
| CJC-1295 No DAC | CJC-1295 without the DAC modification (Mod GRF 1-29) | Shorter-acting GHRH agonist preserving pulsatile GH release |
| GHRH | Native growth hormone-releasing hormone (1-44) | Endogenous GHRH receptor agonist; reference compound |
| GRF 1-29 | First 29 amino acids of GHRH retaining full biological activity | Truncated GHRH with equivalent receptor binding |
| Tesamorelin | Modified GHRH(1-44) with trans-3-hexenoic acid; FDA-approved for HIV lipodystrophy | GHRH agonist; reduces visceral adipose tissue |
Ghrelin Receptor Agonists (GHS-R)
| Peptide | Description | Primary Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Ipamorelin | Highly selective GH secretagogue with the cleanest side-effect profile | GHS-R agonist; does not affect cortisol, ACTH, or prolactin |
| GHRP-2 | Potent GH secretagogue with immune and sleep-promoting effects | GHS-R agonist; also studied for muscle preservation |
| GHRP-6 | Strong GH secretagogue with notable appetite stimulation | GHS-R agonist with neuroprotective and cardioprotective effects |
| GHRP-1 | Early-generation growth hormone-releasing peptide | GHS-R agonist; moderate GH release potency |
| GHRP-4 | Research-grade GH secretagogue peptide | GHS-R agonist with distinct receptor binding profile |
| GHRP-7 | Later-generation growth hormone-releasing peptide | GHS-R agonist; studied for GH release kinetics |
| Hexarelin | Potent GH secretagogue with notable cardioprotective properties | GHS-R agonist; improves cholesterol and triglyceride profiles |
| MK-677 (Ibutamoren) | Non-peptide oral ghrelin receptor agonist | GHS-R agonist; orally bioavailable; long-acting |
IGF-1 & Downstream Mediators
| Peptide | Description | Primary Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| IGF-1 | Insulin-like growth factor-1, the primary downstream mediator of GH | Anabolic signaling; cell proliferation; neuroprotection |
| IGF-1 DES | Truncated IGF-1 lacking the first 3 amino acids | Reduced IGFBP binding; more potent local tissue effects |
| IGF-1 LR3 | Modified IGF-1 with Arg3 substitution and N-terminal extension | Greatly reduced IGFBP binding; extended half-life; enhanced potency |
| Long R3 IGF-1 | Full-length modified IGF-1 with extended activity | Prolonged IGF-1 receptor activation with minimal IGFBP sequestration |
| HGH Fragment 176-191 | C-terminal fragment of growth hormone with lipolytic activity | Fat metabolism without GH's growth-promoting or insulin effects |
Combination Blends
| Blend | Components | Research Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Sermorelin / GHRP-2 Blend | Sermorelin + GHRP-2 | Dual-pathway GH stimulation through GHRH + ghrelin receptors |
| Sermorelin / GHRP-6 Blend | Sermorelin + GHRP-6 | GHRH + ghrelin agonist with appetite-stimulating co-effects |
| Sermorelin / GHRP-6 / GHRP-2 Blend | Sermorelin + GHRP-6 + GHRP-2 | Triple blend for maximum synergistic GH stimulation |
| Sermorelin / Ipamorelin Blend | Sermorelin + Ipamorelin | Clean pairing with complementary cardiovascular and metabolic effects |
| CJC-1295 / GHRP-2 Blend | CJC-1295 + GHRP-2 | Higher GH peak with added appetite and immune modulation |
| CJC-1295 / GHRP-6 Blend | CJC-1295 + GHRP-6 | Strong GH release with neuroprotective co-effects |
| CJC-1295 / Hexarelin Blend | CJC-1295 + Hexarelin | GH release plus cardioprotective benefits |
| CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin Blend | CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin | Most popular pairing — clean GH elevation through dual pathway activation |
| CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin / GHRP-2 Blend | CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin + GHRP-2 | Triple blend combining GHRH with two ghrelin agonists |
| Mod GRF / Ipamorelin / GHRP-2 Blend | Mod GRF 1-29 + Ipamorelin + GHRP-2 | Modified GHRH with dual ghrelin agonists for amplified GH release |
How Synergy Works
GHRH analogues (Sermorelin, CJC-1295) and ghrelin agonists (Ipamorelin, GHRP-2, GHRP-6) act on different pituitary receptors. When combined, they produce GH release that exceeds the sum of either alone. This is why most research protocols pair one peptide from each class.
Getting Started
If you are new to this category, we recommend starting with Ipamorelin — the cleanest GH secretagogue with the most selective receptor profile and fewest side effects. From there, explore related peptides through the See Also sections on each page to build a comprehensive understanding of the research landscape.
Longevity & Anti-Aging Peptides
Research peptides studied for telomerase activation, mitochondrial protection, bioregulation, and lifespan extension in preclinical models.
Cognitive & Neuroprotective Peptides
Research peptides studied for cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, anxiolytic effects, and neurological recovery.