GHRP-2
INVESTIGATIONALGrowth hormone releasing peptide | GH and appetite
Updated: August 2026.
Key points
- What it is: growth hormone releasing peptide (GHRP).
- Main use: GH stimulation, body composition and appetite.
- Typical dose: 100–300 mcg, 1–3 times a day, subcutaneous injection.
- Key result: strong GH release; also increases appetite.
- Common effects: hunger, fluid retention and slight rise in prolactin/cortisol.
- Comparison: more balanced than GHRP-6; combined with CJC-1295.
- Status: not FDA-approved.
Overview
What is GHRP-2?
GHRP-2 is a growth hormone releasing peptide that stimulates the pituitary to release GH. It triggers a potent response and, as a characteristic effect, increases appetite by also stimulating the ghrelin pathway, which makes it useful in bulking phases.
Key benefits
Strong GH release with improvements in recovery, body composition and sleep, plus an appetite increase that helps during mass-gaining phases. It is often combined with a GHRH analog such as CJC-1295.
Mechanism of action
It acts on the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R) in the pituitary, triggering GH pulses. At high doses it can slightly raise prolactin and cortisol, somewhat less than GHRP-6.
Quick start guide
Dosing protocol
| Phase | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 100–300 mcg | 1–3 times/day (SC) | 8–12 weeks |
Subcutaneous route, often fasted. The specific dose must be assessed by a healthcare professional.
🧮 Calculate your exact syringe dose →GHRP-2 vs GHRP-6
| GHRP-2 | GHRP-6 | |
|---|---|---|
| GH release | Strong | Strong |
| Appetite increase | Moderate | Very strong |
| Prolactin/cortisol | Slight | Minimal |
| Typical use | Balanced GH | GH and maximum appetite |
⚠️ Who should NOT use it
- People with active cancer — raising GH/IGF-1 is discouraged.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- People with diabetes — monitor glucose.
- Always under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
What to expect
- Week 1-2: better sleep and increased appetite.
- Week 2-4: better post-workout recovery.
- Week 4-8: body-composition improvements.
- Week 8-12: sustained lean-mass gains.
- Side effects: hunger, fluid retention, drowsiness.
- Most effective for: bulking, recovery and GH stimulation.
Side effects & safety
- Increased appetite after injection.
- Mild fluid retention.
- Drowsiness; useful before bed.
- Slight rise in prolactin or cortisol at high doses.
- Tingling or numbness in the hands.
- Allergic reaction: rash, itching or swelling.
- Signs of infection at the injection site.
- Severe numbness or tingling (carpal tunnel).
- Persistent thirst or high glucose.
- If you are pregnant or have active cancer.
Frequently asked questions
What is GHRP-2?
It is a growth hormone releasing peptide that stimulates GH and increases appetite.
What is the GHRP-2 dose?
Typically 100-300 mcg, 1-3 times a day, subcutaneously. The regimen is set by a professional.
What is the difference between GHRP-2 and GHRP-6?
Both release GH; GHRP-6 increases appetite much more, while GHRP-2 is somewhat more balanced.
What is GHRP-2 combined with?
It is combined with a GHRH analog such as CJC-1295 to enhance GH release.
What are the side effects?
Hunger, fluid retention and a slight rise in prolactin or cortisol at high doses.
Is GHRP-2 approved?
It is not FDA-approved for human use.
Research areas
- Body composition
- Recovery
- Deep sleep
- Appetite
- GH stimulation
Related peptides
- Ipamorelin — More selective GHRP, without appetite increase.
- CJC-1295 — GHRH analog; classic combination.
- Hexarelin — More potent GHRP but with fast desensitization.
Related articles
Related topics
- GHRP-2 for muscle mass
- GHRP-2 and appetite
- GHRP-2 dose
- GHRP-2 and sleep
- GHRP-2 side effects
- GHRP-2 cycle
Summary
What it is: Growth hormone releasing peptide (GHRP).
How it is researched: Subcutaneous, 100-300 mcg, 1-3 times a day.
Key features: Strong GH release and appetite increase. Not FDA-approved.
Related peptides: Ipamorelin, CJC-1295 and Hexarelin.