Performance Research

GHRP-6

Also referenced as: growth hormone releasing peptide-6, SKF-110679

An early growth hormone releasing peptide with pronounced appetite effects and no approved use.

Evidence grade: DPreclinical Research
Preclinical Research
Regulatory status: Not FDA Approved
Not approved for any indication; prohibited in sport under WADA rules.
Human data: Limited
No registered clinical trials identified
Last reviewed: September 1, 2026

Overview

GHRP-6 is a hexapeptide ghrelin receptor agonist and one of the earliest growth hormone secretagogues studied in humans.

It reliably raises GH in pharmacology studies. It also raises cortisol, prolactin and appetite, which is why later compounds aimed for greater selectivity.

Why It's Being Studied

Growth hormone secretion physiology and pituitary testing.
Appetite stimulation via ghrelin receptor signalling.
Cytoprotection in animal models.

Mechanism of Action

In plain language

It activates the hunger-hormone receptor in the pituitary, producing a strong pulse of growth hormone and noticeable hunger.

Technical detail

GHRP-6 is a GHS-R1a agonist acting synergistically with endogenous GHRH and suppressing somatostatin tone. Non-selectivity produces concurrent ACTH, cortisol and prolactin release. CD36 has been proposed as a secondary receptor mediating cytoprotective effects.

Research Areas & Routes Studied

Areas studied

GH secretion
Appetite
Cytoprotection

Routes used in research

Subcutaneous injection (research)
Intravenous (pharmacology studies)

Evidence Summary

Human pharmacology studies show GH release, but there are no completed efficacy trials for performance, body composition or recovery outcomes.

Human clinical evidence

Pharmacology studies document GH, ACTH, cortisol and prolactin responses. No efficacy trials.

Animal studies

Cardioprotection and cytoprotection models.

Anecdotal / community information

Bodybuilding use is extensively reported and entirely uncontrolled.

Reported Adverse Events in Research

Marked hunger, water retention, tingling and flushing reported.
Cortisol and prolactin elevation.
Insulin resistance with sustained GH elevation is a theoretical concern.

Limitations of Current Evidence

Biochemical endpoints only; no outcome data.
Lower selectivity than later secretagogues.

Research References

Phase 1 trial
GHRP-6 stimulation of growth hormone secretion in humans
View Study

This page is an educational research summary. It is not medical advice, does not recommend human use, and does not provide individualised dosing. Many compounds discussed here are research use only and are not approved medicines.