Peptides›GH secretagogue›GHRP-2

GHRP-2

/ Synthetic hexapeptide; ghrelin / GHS-R1a receptor agonist

TIER 2 · TranslationalN = 0 · TESTING PENDINGLAST REVIEW 2026·04·20

ALIAS · KP-102 · Pralmorelin

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Research use onlyAny dose figures below describe what specific cited studies used, reported factually. Nothing on this page is guidance for human use.READ FIRST →

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§ A · Identity

Primary sequence— sequence not captured —

MW · —CLASS · Synthetic hexapeptide; ghrelin / GHS-R1a receptor agonistCATEGORY · GH secretagogue

Approved in Japan as a diagnostic aid (pralmorelin) for growth hormone deficiency testing. Not FDA-approved. Non-selective vs ipamorelin — also raises cortisol and prolactin.

§ B · Mechanism of action

GHRP-2 is a synthetic hexapeptide ghrelin/GHS-R1a receptor agonist. Unlike ipamorelin, it is not selective for GH release and produces measurable elevation of cortisol and prolactin alongside GH.

§ C · Human clinical evidence

Approved in Japan as pralmorelin (Kaken Pharmaceutical) as a diagnostic agent for GH-deficiency testing. Not FDA-approved for any indication in the US.

§ D · Primary literature

PubMed6426923Bowers CY et al. — On the in vitro and in vivo activity of a new synthetic hexapeptide that acts on the pituitary to specifically release growth hormone · Endocrinology · other-animalOriginal characterization of growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs) including the hexapeptide lineage. Foundation for GHRP-2, GHRP-6, hexarelin, and subsequent ghrelin-mimetic development.Limitations: Preclinical; predates identification of ghrelin (1999) as the endogenous ligand for these receptor agonists.1984

§ F · Safety signal

Common: transient flushing, appetite stimulation, cortisol and prolactin elevation (notable vs ipamorelin). No long-term human safety data at chronic doses used in the research-chemical market.

§ H · Regulatory status

Regulatory status

FDA status:: Not FDA-approved

§ I · Notable gaps and controversies

Cortisol and prolactin elevation distinguish GHRP-2 from the cleaner GH-specific profile of ipamorelin. Long-term endocrine consequences of repeated GHRP-2 administration are not characterized in humans.