Growth Hormone & Secretagogues Research
Growth Hormone & SecretagoguesGH Release · Recovery · Body Composition · Anti-Aging
The most mechanistically diverse category in the GH axis. GHRPs amplify pulsatile GH release through the ghrelin receptor; GHRH analogs extend the GH pulse window; non-peptide secretagogues like MK-677 deliver oral bioavailability; and downstream mediators like IGF-1 LR3 act independently of the pituitary altogether.
About this category
GH secretagogue research divides cleanly into two receptor classes. GHRPs (ipamorelin, GHRP-2, GHRP-6) act on the ghrelin receptor (GHSR-1a) to trigger GH release via a distinct pathway from endogenous GHRH. GHRH analogs (CJC-1295 with/without DAC, Sermorelin, Tesamorelin) bind the GHRH receptor and extend or amplify the natural GH pulse.
Downstream from the pituitary, IGF-1 LR3 bypasses the GH axis entirely and binds the IGF-1 receptor directly. MK-677 (Ibutamoren) is a non-peptide oral GHSR agonist that mimics ghrelin’s GH-releasing action — the only compound in the category that does not require injection.
GHRPs — Ghrelin Receptor Agonists
The most selective GHRP studied to date. Triggers GH release without meaningful cortisol or prolactin activity. Most commonly paired with CJC-1295 no-DAC for synergistic pulsatile GH release.
Read overview →First-generation GHRP with potent GH release. Broader hormonal activation profile than Ipamorelin — produces measurable cortisol and prolactin alongside GH.
Read overview →The original GHRP. Highest appetite stimulation of the class. Cytoprotective and cardioprotective data independent of GH axis. Also studied for gastric motility.
Read overview →GHRH Analogs — Pituitary Pulse Amplifiers
Short-acting GHRH analog that amplifies natural pulsatile GH release. The preferred pairing for Ipamorelin — together they mimic physiological GH pulses through two independent receptor mechanisms.
Read overview →Drug Affinity Complex modification extends plasma half-life to 6–8 days. Produces sustained GH elevation rather than discrete pulses.
Read overview →The first 29 amino acids of endogenous GHRH. Strong safety profile and substantial clinical literature make it a well-characterized reference compound.
Read overview →FDA-approved GHRH analog (Egrifta) for HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Phase 3 data shows significant visceral adipose tissue reduction.
Read overview →Non-Peptide Secretagogue — Oral Bioavailability
IGF-1 Axis — Downstream Mediator
Synergistic Pairings — Commonly Studied Combinations
The most studied GHRP/GHRH combination. Two independent receptor mechanisms produce additive to synergistic GH pulse amplitude while preserving pulsatile release.
Both compounds activate GHSR-1a by different mechanisms. Combined use studies GH axis saturation, baseline IGF-1 elevation, and pulsatile amplitude.