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.
Beginner 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.
First-timer 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.
On This Page
Research Status
Early Research
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
GHS 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.
Mild facial flushing or sensation of warmth may occur within 5-15 minutes of injection. Usually resolves within 30 minutes. No intervention required.
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.
Mild headaches have been reported in some users, possibly related to rapid GH elevation. Usually self-resolving. Ensure adequate hydration.
Prolonged 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.
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.
Some 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.
Elevated GH may increase water retention, leading to mild bloating or weight gain. Typically resolves with adequate hydration and electrolyte balance.
GH 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.
Transient dizziness may occur shortly after injection. Sit or lie down if this occurs. Usually resolves within minutes.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 100-200 mcg |
Frequency, timing and route - members only | |
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
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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View all peptidesResearch 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.