GH SecretagoguesNot approved (US)

Hexarelin

Examorelin

Strong stimulation of GHS-R1a triggers growth hormone secretion. CD36 activation supplies a separate cardiac action that does not require GH release. In ischemia models, this reduces programmed death of heart muscle cells and improves cardiac function.

Not medical advice. Educational reference only.

Typical dose
100–200 mcg by injection, 2–3 times daily; table schedules extend to 300 mcg subcutaneously three times daily
Route
Subcutaneous injection
Storage
Keep at 2–8°C after mixing and use within 28 days.

What is Hexarelin?

Hexarelin, also called examorelin, is a manufactured six-residue GHRP with particularly strong growth hormone releasing activity, ranking highest within its class. Activation of CD36 also produces direct cardiac protection independently of growth hormone release in experimental models. This separate action motivates investigation of heart protection. Hexarelin has no FDA approval.

Mechanism of action

Strong stimulation of GHS-R1a triggers growth hormone secretion. CD36 activation supplies a separate cardiac action that does not require GH release. In ischemia models, this reduces programmed death of heart muscle cells and improves cardiac function.

Targets: GHS-R1a (ghrelin receptor) · CD36 receptor

Research indications

  • Growth Hormone Support

    Most effective

    Pituitary signaling is linked to increased release of endogenous growth hormone.

  • Body Composition

    Effective

    Potential changes include more lean tissue and a lower proportion of body fat.

  • Recovery & Repair

    Effective

    Investigations address tissue restoration and recovery following injury or exercise.

  • Sleep Quality

    Moderate

    Some experimental schedules are associated with deeper slow-wave sleep and more restorative rest.

Research protocols

These are commonly discussed research protocols — not medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

GoalAmountFrequencyRoute
Starting Dose100 mcgOnce dailySubcutaneous injection
Standard Dose200 mcgTwice dailySubcutaneous injection
Maximum Dose300 mcg3x dailySubcutaneous injection

Interactions

  • Insulin / IGF-1

    Monitor
  • Corticosteroids

    Caution
  • Thyroid Hormones

    Monitor
  • BPC-157

    Compatible
  • TB-500

    Compatible
  • Ipamorelin + CJC-1295

    Compatible

    The combination aims for synergistic GH responses; this compatibility category does not establish interaction safety.

  • Somatostatin Analogs

    Avoid

How to reconstitute and inject

Diluent: Use bacteriostatic water only; avoid saline because precipitation can occur.

  1. Let the refrigerated vial warm to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before preparing it.
  2. Disinfect the stopper using an alcohol swab, then wait until the surface has dried fully in the air.
  3. Use a sterile syringe to measure your calculated amount of bacteriostatic water. Use this diluent only; avoid saline because precipitation may occur.
  4. Introduce the water gradually against the inner glass wall. Keep the stream away from the peptide powder itself.
  5. Rotate the vial gently to mix its contents. Do not shake forcefully, because vigorous agitation can degrade the peptide.
  6. Wait 2–3 minutes for the powder to dissolve completely. Check that the liquid is transparent and has no color.
  7. Measure your calculated dose with an insulin syringe in preparation for administration beneath the skin.
  8. Use the abdomen, thigh or upper arm for subcutaneous administration. Change the injection location each time to help prevent lipodystrophy.
  9. Return the mixed vial to refrigeration at 2–8°C. Use the prepared solution within 28 days of mixing.

What to expect

Week 1–2
Sleep may start improving, with mild fluid retention possible during the early period.
Week 2–4
Sleep may deepen and recovery improve; a slight rise in appetite is also possible.
Week 4–8
Changes in energy, the balance of fat and lean tissue, and speed of recovery may become noticeable.
Week 8–12
Visible changes may include better skin quality, less body fat and more lean tissue.
Week 12+
Improvements in strength, body composition and general vitality may persist. These are proposed research timelines rather than established individual outcomes.

Side effects and safety

  • Fluid retention and mild abdominal bloating, particularly at the beginning
  • Greater appetite, particularly with members of the GHRP class
  • Warmth or flushing around the injection location
  • Numbness or tingling, with carpal tunnel-like effects at larger doses
  • Lethargy or tiredness when the timing of administration is unsuitable
  • Possible increases in prolactin and cortisol, especially with GHRP-6
  • Higher blood glucose; monitor levels if you have diabetes or prediabetes · Rare

Hexarelin: not approved in the US.

Regulatory status

  • US

    Not approved

    FDA — experimental use only, without therapeutic approval. The regulatory record indicates no prescription requirement, no 503A ban and no applicable telehealth pathway.

    Rx required
    No
    Telehealth
    N/A

Frequently asked questions

What is Hexarelin?

Examorelin is another name for hexarelin. Its experimental cardiac effects involve CD36 and can occur independently of GH release.

Which applications are being investigated?

Investigations focus on growth hormone support, body composition, recovery & repair, sleep quality. The indication ratings summarize proposed applications and do not establish a study design or an approved treatment. Discuss any intended use with a qualified clinician.

Which dosing schedules are discussed?

Injectable research discussions include 100–200 mcg given 2–3 times daily, with an estimated half-life near 70 minutes. Other experimental schedules include 100 mcg once a day, 200 mcg twice a day and 300 mcg three times a day. These are experimental schedules, not approved dosing instructions. Consult a licensed clinician for individual guidance.

What should I know about adverse effects?

Adverse reactions can differ with the amount administered, the route and individual sensitivity. GH secretagogues can produce fluid retention, increased hunger, tingling and early fatigue. Effects on cortisol and prolactin differ among compounds.

References

  1. Hexarelin, a synthetic growth hormone-releasing peptide, vs GHRH in GH-deficient adults (1996)

  2. Hexarelin provides cardioprotective effects in rats (2001)

  3. We are ageing. (2014)

  4. The cardiovascular action of hexarelin. (2014)

  5. Hexarelin studies on ClinicalTrials.gov (2024)