Peptide Profile
Hexarelin
A powerful synthetic growth hormone secretagogue that tells your pituitary gland to release more growth hormone—plus it has remarkable heart-protective properties that make it stand out from other GH-boosting peptides.
Dose Range
100-200mcg
Frequency
Once daily
Route
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle Length
8-12 weeks
Onset
Rapid (hours to days)
Evidence
Moderate
Compound Profile
Scientific & Efficacy Data
C47H58N12O6
Molecular Formula
887.04 g/mol
Molecular Weight
55-70 minutes
Half-Life
High when injected subcutaneously
Bioavailability
140703-51-1
CAS #
6918297
PubChem ID ↗
Developed By · 1994
Romano Deghenghi
Europeptides (Argenteuil, France)
Primary Benefits
One of the most potent growth hormone secretagogues available—triggers robust, pulsatile GH release that mimics natural youthful patterns
Unique cardioprotective effects through CD36 receptor activation—reduces inflammation and protects heart cells from damage
Enhances fat oxidation, reduces visceral fat, and supports lean mass retention through optimized growth hormone signaling
Amino Acid Sequence
His-D-2-methyl-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2Dosing
How much
do I take?
Starting Dose
100 mcg
Start here to see how your body responds. Hexarelin causes a strong GH pulse, so beginning low helps you gauge tolerance. Take on an empty stomach for best absorption—ideally first thing in the morning or before bed.
Standard Dose
100-200 mcg
The most commonly used range in research. If dosing twice daily, space injections at least 6 hours apart (morning and evening works well). Always inject on an empty stomach—food blunts the GH response significantly.
Advanced Dose
200 mcg
Higher frequency protocols used in some research settings. Be aware that desensitization can occur with prolonged high-dose use—many users cycle off for 4-8 weeks after 8-12 weeks of use to restore receptor sensitivity.
Timing
Best time to take
On an empty stomach—either first thing in the morning (30-60 minutes before eating) or before bed (2-3 hours after your last meal). The GH pulse is much stronger when you haven't eaten recently.
With food?
Food significantly blunts the GH response. Always inject at least 30 minutes before eating, or 2-3 hours after a meal. Fatty foods especially interfere with absorption.
If stacking
Hexarelin pairs well with CJC-1295 (without DAC) or Mod GRF 1-29 for synergistic GH release. If stacking, inject at the same time. Space out from other GHRP peptides to avoid excessive GH spikes or desensitization.
Adjusting Your Dose
Increase if
- +You've tolerated the starting dose well for 2+ weeks with minimal side effects
- +You're not noticing expected effects like improved sleep or recovery
- +Your goals require more aggressive GH optimization under supervision
Decrease if
- -You experience significant water retention that doesn't resolve
- -Numbness or tingling in hands becomes bothersome
- -Joint pain or stiffness develops
- -Hunger spikes become difficult to manage
Signs of right dose
- ✓Better sleep quality and waking refreshed
- ✓Improved recovery from workouts
- ✓Gradual improvements in body composition
- ✓Stable energy throughout the day
Dosing Calculator
Calculate Your Exact Dose
Amount to Draw
10
units
Suitability
Is this
right for me?
Best For
Growth Hormone Optimization
Hexarelin is one of the most potent GH-releasing peptides available. It triggers strong, natural pulses of growth hormone from your pituitary, mimicking the way your body released GH when you were younger. This makes it ideal for those looking to restore youthful GH levels.
Heart Health Support
Unlike most other GH peptides, Hexarelin has direct cardioprotective effects through its binding to CD36 receptors in the heart. Research shows it can protect heart cells from damage, reduce inflammation, and even help prevent the scarring that occurs after heart injury.
Body Composition Improvement
The robust GH pulses triggered by Hexarelin enhance fat burning while supporting lean muscle. Research in obese models showed it increased lipid oxidation in fat tissue and reduced fat accumulation in the liver—all while improving insulin sensitivity.
Athletic Recovery
Growth hormone is essential for tissue repair and recovery. Hexarelin's ability to stimulate strong GH release makes it popular among athletes looking to bounce back faster from training. The improved sleep quality many users report also supports recovery.
Consider Alternatives If
Who Should Avoid
Do not use if
- ×You are pregnant or might become pregnant—effects on fetal development are unknown
- ×You are breastfeeding—the peptide could pass into breast milk
- ×You have active cancer or history of cancer—GH can potentially stimulate tumor growth
- ×You have uncontrolled diabetes—GH can affect blood sugar regulation
- ×You've had an allergic reaction to any synthetic peptide
Use with caution if
- !You have diabetes or pre-diabetes—monitor blood sugar closely as GH affects glucose
- !You take insulin or diabetes medications—may need dosage adjustments
- !You have a history of carpal tunnel syndrome—GH can worsen symptoms
- !You have joint problems—water retention may temporarily increase discomfort
- !You're taking medications that affect GH or cortisol levels
Administration
How do I
use it?
Reconstitution
What you need
- •Bacteriostatic water (BAC water)—the preservative keeps it safe for multiple uses
- •Insulin syringes (29-31 gauge)—thin needles mean less discomfort
- •Alcohol swabs for cleaning vial tops and injection sites
- •Your Hexarelin powder vial
Injection
Route
Subcutaneous injection (just under the skin)—the easiest and most common method for self-administration
Best sites
- •Belly fat area (about 2 inches away from your belly button)
- •Front or outer thigh (middle section)
- •Back of the upper arm
Technique
- 1.Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
- 2.Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it air dry completely
- 3.Pinch about an inch of skin to create a fold
- 4.Insert the needle at a 45-90 degree angle (45 if you're lean, 90 if you have more tissue)
- 5.Push the plunger slowly and steadily
- 6.Wait 5 seconds before removing the needle
- 7.Apply light pressure if needed—don't rub
Storage
Signs of degradation
Sample Daily Schedule
Safety
Is it
safe?
Safety Profile
Hexarelin has been studied in human trials and shows a generally favorable safety profile at research doses. The most common effects relate to its strong GH-releasing action: temporary hunger spikes, mild water retention, and occasional tingling in the hands. Importantly, research suggests Hexarelin has direct cardioprotective effects that may add a margin of safety for cardiovascular health.
Hexarelin has more human trial data than many research peptides, including Phase 1-2 studies examining its effects on GH release, heart function, and metabolism. However, large-scale Phase 3 trials and FDA approval have not been pursued. Always work with a healthcare provider when using research compounds.
Common Side Effects
Experienced by some users
Increased hunger
Hexarelin activates ghrelin receptors (GHSR-1a), which triggers hunger signals. Many people feel quite hungry within 30-60 minutes of injection.
Management: Plan your injection timing around meals. If dosing in the morning, have breakfast ready for 30-60 minutes later. This effect often diminishes after the first week.
Water retention
Mild fluid retention is normal with GH-releasing peptides. You might notice slightly puffy fingers or ankles, especially in the first week or two.
Management: Stay well-hydrated and moderate sodium intake. This typically resolves as your body adjusts. If it persists or worsens, reduce your dose.
Tingling or numbness (paresthesia)
A pins-and-needles sensation in hands or feet is related to GH's effects on nerves and fluid balance. It's usually mild and temporary.
Management: This often resolves on its own within 1-2 weeks. If it becomes bothersome or persistent, reduce your dose.
Injection site reaction
Some redness, itching, or mild swelling at the injection site is normal and usually fades within a few hours.
Management: Rotate injection sites. Ensure proper injection technique and let alcohol fully dry before injecting.
Less Common
- •Headache
- •Joint discomfort
These typically resolve with continued use or dose adjustment.
Stop and Seek Help If
- ×Any signs of allergic reaction—stop immediately and seek medical help
- ×Severe or worsening water retention that doesn't improve with dose reduction
- ×Persistent numbness or tingling that affects daily activities
- ×Blood sugar issues that don't stabilize
- ×Any side effect that significantly impacts your quality of life
- ×You've completed your planned cycle length
Hexarelin is a research compound, not an FDA-approved medication. Never start, stop, or change your dosing without guidance from a qualified healthcare provider. This information is for educational purposes only—not medical advice.
Interactions
With other peptides
- ✓Synergistic pairing—the GHRH analog amplifies Hexarelin's GH release. Can be injected together.
- ✓Both are GHRPs. Using together may cause excessive GH release and faster desensitization. Better to choose one or alternate.
- ✓Similar mechanism to Hexarelin. Combining may increase side effects like hunger and water retention without proportional benefits.
- ✓Safe to combine. BPC-157 focuses on healing and has different mechanisms. Can complement Hexarelin's recovery benefits.
With medications
- !Insulin - GH affects blood sugar. If you're on insulin, monitor closely and work with your doctor—dosage adjustments may be needed.
- !Diabetes medications - Similar concerns as with insulin. GH can raise blood sugar temporarily. Monitor and consult your physician.
- ✓Corticosteroids (prednisone, etc.) - High-dose steroids can blunt GH response and affect the benefits of Hexarelin.
- ✓Thyroid medications - GH and thyroid interact. Usually safe, but monitor thyroid levels if on replacement therapy.
With supplements
- ✓Arginine - Can support GH release. Safe to take, though Hexarelin is already very potent on its own.
- ✓GABA - May enhance GH release, especially when taken before bed. Safe to combine.
- ✓Melatonin - Safe and may support the natural nighttime GH pulse. Good for evening dosing protocols.
- ✓Creatine - No interaction concerns. Can support the muscle-building benefits of enhanced GH.
Effectiveness
Does it
work?
Evidence Level
Moderate human trials
What to Expect
Days 1-7
What you might notice
- •Increased hunger 30-60 minutes after injection
- •Possible mild water retention (slightly puffy hands or face)
- •Better sleep quality, especially with evening dosing
- •Mild tingling in hands or feet (this is normal)
- •Perhaps some initial fatigue as your body adjusts
What's normal
- •Hunger spikes are very common and expected
- •Minor fluid retention that may add 1-2 lbs
- •Feeling a bit different but not dramatically changed yet
What's next
- →Stick with your protocol—it takes time to see results
- →Note any side effects to track your response
- →Ensure you're injecting on an empty stomach for best results
Weeks 2-4
What you might notice
- •Sleep quality improvements becoming more consistent
- •Initial side effects (water retention, tingling) often diminish
- •Better workout recovery
- •Possibly some improvement in skin quality
- •More stable energy levels
What's normal
- •Hunger effects may decrease as your body adapts
- •Water weight stabilizes or decreases
- •Subtle but noticeable improvements in how you feel
What's next
- →Consider adding a second daily dose if tolerating well
- →Stay consistent with timing and empty-stomach dosing
- →Track body composition changes, not just scale weight
Weeks 5-8
What you might notice
- •More noticeable changes in body composition
- •Improved muscle tone and recovery
- •Skin and hair quality improvements
- •Better exercise performance
- •Consistent sleep benefits
What's normal
- •Progressive but not dramatic changes
- •Feeling established in your routine
- •Side effects should be minimal at this point
What's next
- →Continue through week 8-12 as planned
- →Consider blood work to check IGF-1 levels if desired
- →Plan your off-cycle period to maintain receptor sensitivity
Weeks 9-12+
What you might notice
- •Peak benefits from your cycle
- •Solid improvements in body composition if diet and training are on point
- •Some users may notice diminishing effects (desensitization)
- •Overall sense of improved vitality and recovery
What's normal
- •Some plateau in effects is normal toward end of cycle
- •Benefits tend to persist for some time after stopping
- •Ready to cycle off and give receptors a break
What's next
- →Plan 4-8 weeks off to restore receptor sensitivity
- →Maintain your results with good nutrition and training
- →Evaluate whether to do another cycle based on your response
Signs It's Working
Sleep and Recovery
- ✓Falling asleep more easily
- ✓Deeper, more restorative sleep
- ✓Waking up feeling refreshed
- ✓Faster recovery from workouts
- ✓Less muscle soreness after training
Body Composition
- ✓Gradual reduction in body fat, especially around midsection
- ✓Improved muscle tone and definition
- ✓Clothes fitting differently (looser in waist, tighter in shoulders)
- ✓Better workout pumps
- ✓Increased strength over time
General Well-Being
- ✓More stable energy throughout the day
- ✓Improved skin quality (some users report a 'glow')
- ✓Better mood and mental clarity
- ✓Faster healing from minor injuries
- ✓Improved exercise tolerance
Not Seeing Results?
Common reasons
- •Taking with food or too soon after eating—always inject on an empty stomach for optimal GH release
- •Inconsistent dosing—GH peptides work best with consistent, regular use
- •Poor quality peptide from unreliable source—always verify third-party testing (COAs)
- •Desensitization from prolonged use—take a 4-8 week break if effects diminish
- •Improper storage degraded the peptide—check if solution is crystal clear before using
- •Unrealistic expectations—Hexarelin enhances your body's GH release, but you still need good nutrition and training
Key Research
"Hexarelin targets neuroinflammatory pathways to preserve cardiac morphology and function in a mouse model of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion"
McDonald H, Peart J, Kurniawan ND, et al., 2020
Finding: This study showed Hexarelin significantly improved heart function after simulated heart attack conditions. Treated mice had less heart scarring, lower inflammation markers, and better cardiac output—suggesting Hexarelin protects the heart through anti-inflammatory pathways involving the autonomic nervous system.
View Study"Stimulation of endogenous pulsatile growth hormone secretion by activation of growth hormone secretagogue receptor reduces fat accumulation and improves insulin sensitivity in obese mice"
Huang Z, Lu X, Huang L, et al., 2021
Finding: Hexarelin increased pulsatile (natural-rhythm) GH secretion in obese mice, leading to reduced visceral fat, less liver fat accumulation, and improved insulin sensitivity—all without changing IGF-1 levels. This suggests Hexarelin helps with metabolic health through direct GH effects.
View Study"The Growth Hormone Secretagogue Hexarelin Protects Rat Cardiomyocytes From in vivo Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury Through Interleukin-1 Signaling Pathway"
Huang J, Li Y, Zhang J, et al., 2017
Finding: Hexarelin protected heart cells from damage caused by blocked and restored blood flow. It worked by reducing harmful inflammation through the IL-1 pathway, activated by binding to the GHSR-1a receptor on heart cells. The heart-protective effects were even slightly better than ghrelin.
View Study"Hexarelin modulates lung mechanics, inflammation, and fibrosis in acute lung injury"
Zambelli V, Rizzi L, Delvecchio P, et al., 2021
Finding: Beyond heart benefits, Hexarelin showed anti-inflammatory effects in the lungs. It improved lung function, reduced immune cell infiltration, and prevented the scarring (fibrosis) that can occur after lung injury—showing its protective effects extend beyond the heart.
View Study"The cardiovascular action of hexarelin"
Mao Y, Tokudome T, Kishimoto I, 2014
Finding: This comprehensive review established that Hexarelin has direct cardiovascular effects through two different receptors: GHSR-1a and CD36. The CD36 pathway appears especially important for heart protection, making Hexarelin unique among GH secretagogues for cardiovascular support.
View StudyFrequently Asked Questions