Hexarelin
In clinical trialsHighly potent GHRP with cardiac research interest
Also known as: Examorelin, EP-23905
Hexarelin is among the most potent growth hormone releasing peptides and is distinguished by additional research interest in cardiac tissue via the CD36 receptor, though it is prone to receptor desensitisation.
Molecular & research data
- Sequence
- His-D-2-methyl-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2
- CAS number
- 140703-51-1
- Molecular formula
- C47H58N12O6
- Molecular weight
- 887.04 g/mol
- Half-life
- ≈55 minutes
- Primary targets
- GHS-R1a (ghrelin receptor), CD36
- Routes (research)
- Subcutaneous
- Storage
- Lyophilised: −20 °C. Reconstituted: 2–8 °C, use within weeks.
Overview
Hexarelin (also called examorelin) is a synthetic hexapeptide and one of the most potent growth hormone releasing peptides. It stands out from the rest of the GHRP family for a second mechanism — interaction with the CD36 receptor — that has drawn interest in cardiovascular research.
Mechanism of action
Hexarelin’s primary action is at the GHS-R1a (ghrelin) receptor, where it strongly stimulates growth hormone release. Separately, it binds CD36, a scavenger receptor expressed in cardiac and vascular tissue, which underlies its distinct line of cardiovascular study.
Its potency comes with a trade-off: Hexarelin is more prone to receptor desensitisation than other GHRPs, meaning the GH response can diminish with continued exposure. It also tends to raise cortisol and prolactin more than the highly selective Ipamorelin.
Common research uses
- Potent stimulation of growth hormone release
- Cardiovascular research via the CD36 pathway
- Comparative GHRP studies on potency versus selectivity and desensitisation
Compare Hexarelin
Hexarelin FAQ
What makes Hexarelin different from other GHRPs?+
It is one of the most potent GH releasers and also interacts with the CD36 receptor, giving it distinct cardiovascular research interest beyond growth hormone.
What is the downside of Hexarelin''s potency?+
Hexarelin is associated with faster receptor desensitisation (tolerance) and greater prolactin/cortisol effects than the selective Ipamorelin, so sustained GH elevation is harder to maintain.
Is Hexarelin selective?+
No. Like GHRP-2 and GHRP-6 it can raise cortisol and prolactin, in contrast to the clean profile of Ipamorelin.
References
Related peptides
GHRP-2
In clinical trialsPotent ghrelin-mimetic GH secretagogue
GHRP-2 (pralmorelin) is a potent growth hormone releasing peptide used clinically as a diagnostic agent in some countries, known for strong GH release with moderate appetite and cortisol effects.
GHRP-6
In clinical trialsAppetite-stimulating GH releasing peptide
GHRP-6 is one of the original growth hormone releasing peptides, notable for producing the strongest appetite stimulation of the GHRP family alongside its GH-releasing effect.
Ipamorelin
In clinical trialsSelective ghrelin-mimetic GHRP
Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone releasing peptide (GHRP) that stimulates GH release with minimal effect on cortisol, prolactin, or appetite, making it the cleanest of the classic GHRPs.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-26. Information is provided for research and educational reference only — see our disclaimer.