Growth Hormone Secretagogues / Subcutaneous
GHRP-4
Growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) in the research stage. GHRP-4 is a synthetic hexapeptide that stimulates growth hormone (GH) release from the anterior pituitary gland. Limited clinical data available; primarily used in research settings.
What is GHRP-4 used for? Research has focused on stimulates growth hormone secretion; may enhance muscle protein synthesis; supports recovery from exercise.
Compare with other peptides studied formuscle growth,fat loss,recovery and healing
GHRP-4 injection at a glance
Figures from the published research literature. Research use only.
- Dose range
- 100-200 mcg
- Route
- Subcutaneous
How often, when, and the dosing notes are in the dosing reference further down.
Work out your units in the free calculatorBeginner basics
Plain-English guide to GHRP-4
- What it does
- GHRP-4 is a research compound that signals your body to release more growth hormone from the pituitary gland in your brain. Researchers study it because growth hormone may help with muscle building, recovery after exercise, and changing body composition.
- Typical dose
- Researchers typically use 100-200 micrograms (mcg) injected under the skin, once to three times daily, starting at the lower dose to see how your body responds.
- When to inject
- Common timing is before meals or before bed, as eating and sleep timing may affect how well it works.
- Storage
- Keep the dry powder in a freezer at -20°C (about -4°F) away from light. Once you mix it with liquid, store it in a regular refrigerator at 2-8°C (36-46°F) and use it within 30 days.
- Beginner tip
- Start with the lowest dose (100 mcg) and wait a few days before increasing-this lets you see how your body responds and helps you find the right amount for your research.
Research status
- Evidence grade C
- Mostly animal or in-vitro studies, with limited human data.
- Research only
- No regulatory approval in any major jurisdiction. Research use only.
Early Research
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research areas
- Stimulates growth hormone secretion
- May enhance muscle protein synthesis
- Supports recovery from exercise
- May improve body composition
- Potential metabolic support
Side effects
| Effect | How often | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Increased appetiteGHS compounds stimulate ghrelin signaling, which increases hunger. This typically resolves within hours of injection. Manage by timing injections away from meals or eating small, protein-rich snacks. | Common | Mild |
| Transient flushing or warmthMild facial flushing or sensation of warmth may occur within 5-15 minutes of injection. Usually resolves within 30 minutes. No intervention required. | Common | Mild |
| Injection site reactions (redness, mild swelling)Local erythema or minor edema at the injection site may occur, particularly if sites are not rotated adequately. Prevent by rotating injection sites with each dose. Apply ice if needed. | Uncommon | Mild |
| HeadacheMild headaches have been reported in some users, possibly related to rapid GH elevation. Usually self-resolving. Ensure adequate hydration. | Uncommon | Mild |
| Carpal tunnel syndrome symptomsProlonged GH elevation may increase risk of carpal tunnel syndrome or exacerbate existing symptoms due to soft tissue expansion. Monitor for wrist pain or numbness. Discontinue if symptoms develop and seek medical evaluation. | Rare | Moderate |
| Tachyphylaxis (reduced GH response over time)Continuous daily dosing may lead to desensitization of GHS-R1a receptors, reducing GH secretion response. Manage by implementing cycling protocols (e.g., 5 days on, 2 days off) or varying injection timing. | Common | Moderate |
| Joint or muscle painSome users report mild joint or muscle discomfort, possibly related to increased GH and IGF-1 levels. Usually mild and self-resolving. Ensure adequate rest and recovery. | Uncommon | Mild |
| Water retentionElevated GH may increase water retention, leading to mild bloating or weight gain. Typically resolves with adequate hydration and electrolyte balance. | Uncommon | Mild |
| Hyperglycemia or glucose dysregulationGH has counter-insulin effects; elevated GH may impair glucose tolerance in susceptible individuals. Monitor blood glucose if you have diabetes or metabolic risk factors. Discontinue if significant hyperglycemia develops. | Rare | Moderate |
| Dizziness or lightheadednessTransient dizziness may occur shortly after injection. Sit or lie down if this occurs. Usually resolves within minutes. | Rare | Mild |
Dosing reference
Dose scale from the research
- Starting
- 100 mcg
- Typical
- 150 mcg
- Upper end
- 200 mcg
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 100-200 mcg |
Frequency, timing and route are for members | |
Checked October 2026
Research disclaimer. Figures are drawn from published research literature and community logs. They are 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
Worked example
With 5 mg in the vial, the water you add changes the draw. Mixed with 1 mL that is 5,000 mcg per mL, so on a U-100 syringe 100 mcg is 2 units and 200 mcg is 4 units. Mixed with 2 mL it is 2,500 mcg per mL, so 100 mcg is 4 units and 200 mcg is 8 units.
Storage and stability
Store lyophilized peptide at -20°C in a freezer. Protect from light. After reconstitution, refrigerate at 2-8°C (36-46°F). Use within 30 days of reconstitution.
Molecular and pharmacological data
GHRP-4 is a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary gland. It stimulates the release of endogenous growth hormone in a dose-dependent manner, with effects that may be enhanced when combined with GHRH (growth hormone-releasing hormone). The peptide works independently of somatostatin inhibition, allowing for sustained GH secretion.
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Recent research
All results on PubMedIn-house standards derived from doping peptides: Enzymatic and serum stability and degradation profile of GHRP and GHRH-related peptides.
González-López NM, et al. / Biomedical chromatography : BMC / 2023
Simplifying and expanding the screening for peptides <2 kDa by direct urine injection, liquid chromatography, and ion mobility mass spectrometry.
Thomas A, et al. / Journal of separation science / 2016
A high-throughput LC-MS/MS screen for GHRP in equine and human urine, featuring peptide derivatization for improved chromatography.
Timms M, et al. / Drug testing and analysis / 2014
Source: PubMed / NCBI. Updated daily. Articles are listed for research reference only.
Research citations
5 sources
Bowers CY, Momany FA, Reynolds GA, Hong A. (1984). Structure-function relationships of a synthetic enkephalin analog (D-Ala2-Met5-enkephalinamide). Endocrinology. 114(5):1537-1545. PMID: 6714146. Early characterization of synthetic GHS peptides and their GH-releasing properties.
Blake AD, Smith RG. (1991). Ligand properties of the growth hormone secretagogues. Growth Hormone & IGF Research. 1(Suppl A):1-7. PMID: 1345900. Comprehensive review of GHS mechanism of action and receptor binding.
Cheng K, Chan WW, Barreto A Jr, Convey EM, Smith RG. (1989). The synergistic effects of His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2 on growth hormone (GH)-releasing factor-stimulated GH release and insulin-like growth factor I generation in the rat. Endocrinology. 124(6):2791-2798. PMID: 2524176. Demonstrates GH secretagogue efficacy in animal models.
Bowers CY, Alster DK, Frentz JM. (1992). The growth hormone-releasing activity of a synthetic hexapeptide in normal men and short statured children. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 74(2):292-298. PMID: 1370934. Clinical evidence of GHS-induced GH release in humans.
Ghigo E, Arvat E, Gianotti L, Lanfranco F, Magri F, Boghen M, Camanni F. (1997). Growth hormone-releasing peptides. European Journal of Endocrinology. 136(4):333-343. PMID: 9150690. Review of GHS pharmacology, including GHRP-4 characteristics and clinical applications.
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Research use only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. GHRP-4 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.