Growth Hormone Protocol
HexarelinComplete Dosing & Administration Guide
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
Dosing
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
Step 1: Peptide Weight
Find the weight printed on your peptide vial label
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The peptide weight is printed on the label
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The weight is on the label
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.
Want the Full Picture?
View the complete Hexarelin research profile including mechanism of action, clinical studies, effectiveness timeline, and FAQ.
View Full Hexarelin Profile