GHRP-2
Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2 is a potent stimulator of GH release with mild appetite stimulation.
Common Dosage
100mcg - 300mcg 2-3x daily
Category
Growth Hormone
- GH release
- Muscle preservation
- Anti-inflammatory
GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2) is a synthetic hexapeptide that was among the first GHRPs developed in the late 1980s and early 1990s during research into GH secretagogue mechanisms. Its development helped elucidate the existence and function of the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) — research that ultimately led to the discovery of ghrelin itself. GHRP-2 produces a potent GH pulse with less appetite stimulation than GHRP-6, making it a preferred option for those who want the GH-releasing effects without the extreme hunger response.
GHRP-2 binds to GHS-R1a receptors in both the pituitary and hypothalamus. In the pituitary, it directly stimulates GH secretion. In the hypothalamus, it reduces somatostatin tone (which normally inhibits GH). This dual action creates robust GH pulses. Unlike Ipamorelin, GHRP-2 does cause modest cortisol and prolactin elevation — important considerations for long-term use or use in stress-sensitive populations.
- Growth hormone stimulation and optimization
- Muscle preservation during caloric restriction
- Anti-inflammatory applications — direct GH-independent anti-inflammatory effects documented
- GH deficiency assessment (stimulation testing)
- Lean mass development combined with GHRH analogues
Combination GHRP-2 + CJC-1295
The combination of GHRP-2 with CJC-1295 produces synergistic GH release — often described as producing a 'supraphysiological' pulse amplitude. Users tracking IGF-1 levels have documented 2–4x elevations from baseline with this combination at standard doses.
Muscle Preservation in Cutting Phases
Bodybuilders and physique athletes using GHRP-2 during aggressive caloric restriction report measurably better lean mass retention compared to restriction alone — consistent with GH's known anti-catabolic and lipolytic properties.
- Cortisol elevation — modest but meaningful with chronic use; may undermine recovery or adrenal health over extended periods
- Prolactin elevation — can cause issues in hormone-sensitive individuals including gynecomastia risk
- Significant hunger stimulation — less than GHRP-6 but still notable
- IGF-1 elevation risk similar to other GH axis peptides
- Pituitary desensitization with continuous non-cycled use
- Water retention is common
- Hunger
- Water retention
- Cortisol elevation (slight)