GHRP-1
First-generation growth hormone releasing peptide that stimulates GH secretion through ghrelin receptor agonism. Moderate potency compared to later GHRPs. Used primarily in research settings to investigate GH dynamics and metabolic effects.
Research Status
Limited Clinical Data
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
Ghrelin receptor activation stimulates appetite. Typically resolves within hours post-injection. Manage by timing injections away from meals if appetite suppression is desired.
GHRP-1 can transiently increase cortisol levels. Clinically insignificant in most cases but may be relevant for individuals with cortisol sensitivity.
Redness, itching, or mild swelling at injection site. Prevent through proper site rotation and sterile technique. Usually resolves within hours.
Transient vasodilation may occur post-injection. Typically mild and self-resolving within 10-30 minutes.
Reported in some users, possibly related to rapid GH elevation or cortisol response. Usually mild and transient.
Repeated daily dosing leads to diminished GH response within 2-4 weeks. Mitigate by cycling: 5 days on, 2 days off, or alternating with other secretagogues.
Chronic GH elevation can cause fluid retention and nerve compression. Rare at research doses but documented with long-term use. Discontinue if symptoms develop.
GH is diabetogenic; individuals with insulin resistance or diabetes risk may experience elevated blood glucose. Monitor fasting glucose if using chronically.
Reported anecdotally; may relate to rapid GH elevation or fluid retention. Usually resolves with continued use or dose reduction.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 100-300 mcg |
| Frequency | 1-3x daily |
| Timing | Before bed, before meals, or post-exercise |
| Route | Subcutaneous |
Research compound. Start at 100 mcg and titrate based on response. Fasting state enhances GH release. Timing relative to meals and exercise significantly affects efficacy.
Research disclaimer
Figures drawn from published research literature and community logs. Not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution Guide
Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline — use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2–8°C
Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Molecular and Pharmacological Data
| Molecular weight | 817.95 |
| Half-life | 30-60 minutes (plasma); GH response peaks 30-60 minutes post-injection |
| Sequence | His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2 |
GHRP-1 is a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist, stimulating the release of growth hormone from the anterior pituitary gland. It works synergistically with endogenous GHRH (growth hormone-releasing hormone) to amplify GH secretion. The peptide triggers calcium influx in somatotroph cells, leading to exocytosis of GH-containing granules.
Ghrelin Receptor (GHS-R1a) Activation
GHRP-1 binds to GHS-R1a on pituitary somatotroph cells, activating G-protein coupled receptor signaling that increases intracellular calcium and triggers GH release.
GHRH Potentiation
GHRP-1 enhances the effect of endogenous GHRH, creating a synergistic GH-releasing effect greater than either stimulus alone.
Somatostatin Inhibition
GHRP-1 may suppress somatostatin (GH-inhibiting hormone) secretion, removing a brake on GH release.
- GHRP-1 is a hexapeptide with D-amino acid substitutions for metabolic stability
- GH secretion is pulsatile; GHRP-1 induces discrete GH pulses rather than continuous elevation
- Efficacy is reduced in fed state; fasting or low blood glucose enhances response
- Tachyphylaxis (reduced response) can develop with continuous use; cycling protocols are recommended
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View all peptidesResearch Use Only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. GHRP-1 is not approved for human use by the FDA or any equivalent regulatory body. This is not medical advice. Do not use any substance discussed here for therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative purposes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The Peptide Volt does not endorse the use of any research chemicals. 18+ only.