GHRP-2: Benefits, Dosage & FDA Status
Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide 2
A potent synthetic ghrelin-mimetic GH secretagogue. Drives strong GH spikes but raises cortisol and prolactin more than newer alternatives like Ipamorelin.
FDA Status
Not FDA-approved — research compound; previously studied as growth hormone deficiency diagnostic
Typical Dose
100–300 mcg, 1–3 times daily (subcutaneous)
Evidence Grade
BLimited clinical + robust preclinical evidence
Half-Life
~15–30 minutes
Routes of Administration
subcutaneous
First Synthesized
1990s
Clinics Indexed
86 providers have offered GHRP-2 in our tracked directory.
Mechanism of Action
Hexapeptide GHS-R1a agonist that drives a sharp pulsatile GH release.
Key Reported Benefits
- ✓Strong GH release
- ✓Appetite stimulation
- ✓Muscle recovery
Benefits listed reflect commonly reported effects from clinical trials and practitioner use. Individual response varies. Evidence-grade B indicates limited clinical + robust preclinical evidence.
Reported Side Effects
- •Hunger surge
- •Cortisol/prolactin elevation
- •Water retention
Contraindications
- ⚠Active malignancy
- ⚠Pregnancy
Commonly Stacked With
Regulatory & Safety Context
FDA status: Not FDA-approved — research compound; previously studied as growth hormone deficiency diagnostic
This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Peptide use outside of an FDA-approved indication should be discussed with a licensed medical professional. Source quality, cold-chain storage, and injection hygiene all materially affect safety outcomes.
See state-by-state legality: US peptide legality by state →
References
Selected primary literature on GHRP-2. Full PubMed records linked. Additional citations are available on request.
Last reviewed: 2026-04-30
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