GHRP-2: Review, benefits and dosage

GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2), also known as Pralmorelin, is a synthetic hexapeptide known for its powerful effects on stimulating growth hormone (GH) release.

The compound has garnered interest in the fitness community due to its potential benefits, which include muscle growth, fat loss, and improved recovery.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of GHRP-2, exploring its benefits, side effects, dosage recommendations, and cycle length.

The Science Behind GHRP-2

GHRP-2 belongs to a family of peptides that stimulate the release of growth hormone by acting on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. This peptide functions as a ghrelin mimetic, binding to the ghrelin receptor (also known as the growth hormone secretagogue receptor) and triggering the release of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). The result is an increase in growth hormone production and release, which contributes to a host of physiological benefits.

GHRP-2 benefits

Increases muscle growth

By increasing growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), GHRP-2 helps to boost muscle protein deposition. The combined effect of decreasing degradation and enhancing deposition encourages the development of lean muscle mass, even in adverse conditions.

Improves sleep quality

GHRP-2 has been shown to increase the duration of stages 3 and 4 of the sleep cycles by about 50% each while increasing REM sleep by approximately 20% while reducing the amount that an individual deviates from “normal sleep” by as much as a third.

This increase in sleep quality led to improvement in cognitive functions, blood pressure, healing and energy levels.

Stimulation of appetite

As a ghrelin mimetic, GHRP-2 can stimulate appetite, boosting food intake. Depending on the goal, this can be a benefit or a side-effect.

Fat loss

This peptide indirectly supports fat loss by increasing the levels of growth hormone, which boosts lipolysis (the breakdown of fat) and inhibits lipogenesis (the storage of fat). This results in a more favorable body composition, with increased muscle mass and reduced body fat.

GHRP-2 side effects

While GHRP-2 is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, some side effects may occur:

Water Retention

GHRP-2 can cause water retention, leading to bloating, a temporary increase in body weight and tingling in the hands. This side effect can be sign that it is a good idea to lower the dose and it will subside once the peptide is discontinued.

Increased Appetite

As a ghrelin mimetic, GHRP-2 can stimulate appetite, which may be problematic for individuals attempting to maintain a calorie-restricted diet.

Injection Site Reactions

Some users may experience redness, itching, or discomfort at the injection site, although these symptoms are typically mild and short-lived.

Low Blood Sugar

For some users, it can cause a drop in blood sugar levels, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, sweating, or confusion. It is advised to monitor your blood sugar levels closely and adjust your diet accordingly to avoid hypoglycemia.

GHRP-2 dosage and cycle length

GHRP-2 is usually administered via subcutaneous injections, and the typical dosage ranges from 100-300 mcg per injection.

This means that you’re spending anywhere from 0.5mg to 1.5mg of GHRP-2 per day, given a five time injection protocol.

According to experienced bodybuilders, a 150mcg dosage per injection feels just right and hits the sweet spot.

Beginners are advised to start with 100mcg per injection and see how their body reacts to the peptide.

The ideal cycle length for GHRP-2 varies depending on individual goals and how well the compound is tolerated. Generally, cycles range from 4-12 weeks, with a 4-6 week break between cycles to allow the body to recover and prevent desensitization to the peptide’s effects.

Some users prefer to run longer cycles of up to 6 months, followed by an extended break. It’s essential to find the cycle length that works best for your specific needs while minimizing the risk of side effects.

Is GHRP-2 legal?

GHRP-2 and similar synthetic peptide drugs have the same legal status as SARMs such as MK-677 and RAD-140. They are legal when sold as a research chemical, but are not allowed for human consumption.

These peptides are all banned on both the WADA and USADA lists of prohibited substances. This means that taking GHRP-2 if you’re actively competing or are an athlete will more than likely lead to a full exclusion from all tournaments.

How to take GHRP-2?

Intranasal

One of the safest ways of getting GHRP-2 into your system is via your nasal passage. It is not the most effective route of administration, but still potent enough.

Orally

GHRP 2 is orally active, which is positive for those that are not fond of injections.

Subcutaneously

The most common method to take GHRP 2 is is through subcutaneous injection. These injections are administered directly into the abdominal cavity rather than being injected into the muscle or skin tissue like some of the other peptides.

GHRP-2 vs. GHRP-6

GHRP-2 and GHRP-6 are both synthetic hexapeptides that have gained popularity in the fitness community for their ability to stimulate the release of growth hormone (GH). Despite their similarities, there are key differences between the two compounds that make each more suitable for specific goals or preferences.

Benefits

Both of these peptides are known to promote muscle growth, fat loss, enhanced recovery, and improved sleep quality due to their effects on GH release.

However, there are subtle differences in their potency and specific benefits.

GHRP-2 is considered to be the more potent of the two compounds, leading to a stronger GH release and, subsequently, more pronounced effects on muscle growth and fat loss.

In contrast, GHRP-6 may be slightly less potent but has a more significant impact on appetite stimulation, making it a better choice for individuals looking to increase caloric intake for muscle growth.

Side Effects

The side effect profiles of both of these peptides are similar, with both compounds potentially causing water retention, low blood sugar, and injection site reactions.

However, GHRP-6 is more likely to cause a pronounced increase in appetite due to its stronger ghrelin-mimetic properties.

This can be beneficial for individuals looking to consume more calories but may be a drawback for those trying to maintain a strict diet or reduce calorie intake.

	GHRP-6	GHRP-2
Effects on hunger	Big effect on hunger	Less effect on hunger
Effect on growth hormone release	Less potent	More potent
Effect on prolactin and cortisol release	Less control	Better control
Potency	Less	More
Half-life	Longer half-life	Shorter half-life

Frequently asked questions