GHRP-2

Growth hormone–releasing peptide from an earlier generation of GH secretagogues, discussed mainly in experimental and legacy wellness contexts.

Educational only

This page is for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not replace professional medical judgment. Always consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or protocol.

Overview

GHRP-2 (growth hormone–releasing peptide-2) is a synthetic peptide in the growth hormone secretagogue family. It was one of the earlier agents explored for stimulating endogenous GH release via non-physiologic receptor activation.

Over time, interest has shifted toward newer, more selective molecules, but GHRP-2 still appears in experimental and legacy wellness discussions. Its regulatory status and product quality controls vary substantially between jurisdictions and suppliers.

Mechanism of action

GHRP-2 is designed to bind the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), mimicking certain actions of ghrelin-like signaling. At a high level, activation of this pathway can:

  • Increase pulsatile growth hormone release from the pituitary
  • Influence appetite and energy balance through central mechanisms
  • Interact with other endocrine axes in ways that are still being clarified

Compared with later secretagogues, GHRP-2 has been associated in some reports with broader off-target endocrine effects, which has informed evolving views on its risk–benefit profile.

Indications and use context

In most contemporary medical practice, GHRP-2 is not a frontline or approved therapy for growth hormone–related conditions. It is more often referenced in historical research, exploratory protocols, or unregulated wellness contexts that sit outside formal guidelines.

Any proposed use should be evaluated against local laws, ethical standards, and the availability of better-characterized options. Decisions about whether and how to treat GH-axis issues belong with clinicians who can weigh the evolving evidence and alternatives.

Anti-doping status

WADA Classification

Status: Prohibited at all times (S2. Peptide Hormones, Growth Factors, Related Substances, and Mimetics)

GHRP-2 (Pralmorelin) is classified as a prohibited growth hormone secretagogue by WADA under category S2.

Notable athlete sanctions within professional leagues include:

  • Jodie Meeks (NBA): Suspended for 25 games in 2018 after testing positive for Ipamorelin and GHRP-2.
  • Steven Wright (MLB): Suspended for 80 games in 2019 following a positive test for GHRP-2.

Safety and side effects

High-level safety themes

Safety information for GHRP-2 is drawn from a mix of research and practice reports and should be interpreted with caution.

Described effects have included flushing, increased appetite, transient increases in prolactin or cortisol in some settings, local injection-site reactions, and nonspecific symptoms such as headache or fatigue.

As with other GH-axis interventions, theoretical concerns extend to long-term effects on glucose metabolism, soft-tissue growth, or tumor biology, especially in individuals with underlying risk factors. These considerations are best handled in a clinical risk–benefit framework rather than informal experimentation.

Pharmacology and dosing considerations

GHRP-2 (Pralmorelin) is a potent GH secretagogue with a short half-life, necessitating frequent administration to mimic natural pulsatility.

Common administration patterns

Route: Subcutaneous injection.

Protocol structure and dosage:
  • Dosage: 100 mcg to 300 mcg per administration.
  • Frequency: 1–3 times daily (e.g., morning, post-workout, bed).
  • Dietary context: Administer on an empty stomach (wait 20-30 mins before eating) to avoid insulin blunting the GH release.

This information summarizes commonly discussed research practices. GHRP-2 stimulates hunger less than GHRP-6 but more than Ipamorelin.

Formulations and combinations

In catalogs, GHRP-2 usually appears as a lyophilized powder for reconstitution. It may also be paired conceptually or in compounded products with other GH secretagogues or growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH) analogs.

In this catalog, structural entries highlight vial codes and specifications rather than endorsing specific formulations or multi-peptide regimens. The presence of GHRP-2 in a combination listing should not be read as a usage recommendation.

Research and evidence snapshot

Early research on GHRP-2 examined its ability to stimulate GH release, sometimes in comparison with other secretagogues and GHRH analogs. Outcomes of interest included GH and IGF-1 levels, body composition changes, and short-term tolerability.

Over time, attention has shifted toward different classes of therapies for most clinical questions, and the evidence base for GHRP-2 remains relatively specialized. Readers interested in detailed data should consult primary studies and consider how older findings map onto current practice.

Frequently asked questions

A future FAQ section may cover high-level questions such as how GHRP-2 compares conceptually with newer secretagogues, what clinicians consider when evaluating GH-axis interventions, and how trial endpoints differ between older and newer agents. Answers will remain educational and non-prescriptive.

Sport & Anti-Doping Warning

GHRP-2 is an older growth hormone–releasing peptide that appears explicitly on the WADA Prohibited List and has been a target compound in laboratory detection research.

Advisory Note

Modern anti-doping testing panels routinely include GHRP-2 and related peptides, so its use is risky even at what might seem like 'research' doses.

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