Muscle & Growth Hormone
Hexarelin
Examorelin · GHRP-6 analog
What it is
Hexarelin is a synthetic six-amino-acid GH-releasing peptide developed in Italy. It produces the strongest GH release of any GHRP class peptide — but with a major caveat: receptor desensitization happens fast. Has unique cardioprotective effects via its action on cardiac CD36 receptors.
How it works
Strongly stimulates ghrelin/GHS receptors in the pituitary, producing a powerful GH pulse. Also acts directly on cardiac tissue independently of GH, with documented protective effects against ischemic damage in animal models.
Benefits
- Strongest GH pulse of any GHRP
- Cardiac protection (CD36 receptor activity)
- Increased lean mass over months
- Improved sleep quality
- Better recovery from training
Timeline
- Week 1–2
- Strong sleep improvement; GH pulse effects.
- Week 3–4
- Tachyphylaxis (tolerance) starts — effects diminish.
- Week 6–8
- End of typical cycle. Cycle off for at least 4 weeks.
Dosing & titration
Standard dose100 mcg, 1–3x daily
Cycle length3–4 weeks ON, then 4–8 weeks OFF (mandatory due to tolerance)
TimingEmpty stomach. Pre-bed dose strongest.
When to titrate upDon't — doses above 200 mcg cause cortisol/prolactin spikes. Most experienced users prefer Ipamorelin for daily use.
Side effects & risks
- Cortisol elevation at higher doses
- Prolactin elevation
- Rapid receptor desensitization
- Transient fatigue or hunger
- Mild water retention
Old-generation GHRP — superseded by Ipamorelin for clean daily use. Hexarelin's main remaining niche is short-cycle aggressive GH pulses or cardiac research.
Typical price
$60–$100/mo5 mg vial from a research/compounding source.
Studies
- Imbimbo BP et al. Hexarelin: a peptide GH-secretagogue with cardiovascular protective effects — Cardiac protective mechanism. PubMedEuropean Journal of Clinical Investigation, 1999
- Search PubMed for hexarelin — PubMed searchLive PubMed search
Educational reference only. Not medical advice.