Hexarelin
Also known as: Examorelin, HEX
Molecular Identifiers
Overview
First-generation synthetic hexapeptide GH secretagogue. Ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist with greater potency than GHRP-6 but less selectivity than Ipamorelin. May elevate cortisol and prolactin.
The main clinical interest around Hexarelin is its effect as a potent GH secretagogue, with robust increases in serum IGF-1, plus a cardioprotective effect described in preclinical studies that is independent of the GH pathway. For these reasons it has drawn interest in sports medicine (body composition, recovery) and in cardiovascular research.
Hexarelin currently has no regulatory approval from any agency (FDA, EMA, ANVISA), and its use is rare outside research contexts. It is most often dispensed by compounding pharmacies as off-label use, but has lost ground to Ipamorelin due to side effects — cortisol and prolactin elevation, and desensitization with prolonged use. WADA lists all GHRPs, including Hexarelin, as substances prohibited at all times for competitive athletes.
Among the GHRPs, Hexarelin is the most potent for acute GH stimulation but also the one that most desensitizes the pituitary and most elevates cortisol and prolactin — a profile at the opposite end from Ipamorelin (cleaner, more selective) and closer to GHRP-2, with GHRP-6 occupying the increased-appetite niche. Compared to GHRH analogs (sermorelin, CJC-1295, tesamorelin) it acts on a different receptor (GHS-R1a) and is typically stacked with one of them; oral MK-677 is the long-acting alternative on the same ghrelin axis.
His-D-2-Me-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂ Contains D-amino acids and modified amino acids
Half-life
~70 minutes
Administration Route
Subcutaneous
Category
GH Secretagogues
Mechanism of Action
- Potent GHS-R1a receptor agonism
- Robust stimulation of GH secretion
- Increase in serum IGF-1
- Cardioprotective effect independent of GH
- Possible desensitization with prolonged use
Dosage Protocol
Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose | 200-300 mcg per injection |
| Frequency | 2-3 times per day |
| Timing | Morning, post-workout and evening |
| Duration | 8-12 weeks (with off periods) |
Reported Side Effects
Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.
- Cortisol elevation
- Prolactin elevation
- Facial flushing
- Increased appetite
- Headache
- Water retention
Product Properties
| Purity | >99% |
| Appearance | White lyophilized powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and bacteriostatic water |
| Source | Solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) |
| Storage | Lyophilized: -20°C for up to 2 years, 2-8°C for up to 6 months. Reconstituted: 2-8°C for up to 4 weeks. Protect from light and moisture. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. |
Presentations & Preparation
Vials of Hexarelin found in the research market:
Reconstitution
- Diluent: Bacteriostatic water
- Volume: 1-2 ml per 2 mg vial
- Inject diluent slowly against the vial wall
- Gently swirl until dissolved
- Never shake
Storage
- Lyophilized: Room temperature or refrigerated
- Reconstituted: Refrigerated 2-8°C (up to 4 weeks)
- Protect from light
- Do not freeze after reconstitution
Scientific Studies
Published studies on Hexarelin.
Intranasal administration of the GHRP hexarelin accelerates growth in short children
Laron Z, Frenkel J, Deghenghi R, Anin S, Klinger B, Silbergeld A
Growth hormone-releasing activity of hexarelin in humans - a dose-response study
Imbimbo BP, Mant T, Edwards M, Amin D, Dalton N, Boutignon F, Lenaerts V, Wüthrich P, Deghenghi R
Related Peptides
CJC-1295 with DAC
1-2 mg per week · Once per week
CJC-1295 sem DAC
100-200 mcg per injection · 2-3 times daily
GHRP-2
100-300 mcg per injection · 2-3 times per day
GHRP-6
100-300 mcg per injection · 2-3 times per day
Ipamorelin
200-300 mcg per injection · 2-3 times daily
MK-677
10-25 mg per dose · Once daily