GHRP-2 Acetate: Research Peptide Profile

GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide-2), also known as Pralmorelin or KP-102, is a synthetic hexapeptide that functions as a potent growth hormone secretagogue . This profile provides essential information for researchers working with this compound.

What is GHRP-2?

GHRP-2 is a synthetic oligopeptide belonging to the growth hormone-releasing peptide (GHRP) family, first identified over three decades ago . It is a potent stimulator of growth hormone (GH) release, acting through a mechanism distinct from that of endogenous growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) .

Key Identifiers :

• Synonyms: Pralmorelin, KP-102, D-Ala-3-(2-naphthalenyl)-D-Ala-L-Ala-L-Trp-D-Phe-L-lysinamide

• CAS Number: 158861-67-7 (free base)

• Molecular Formula: C₄₅H₅₅N₉O₆

• Molecular Weight: 817.97 g/mol

• Purity: Typically ≥98% for research-grade material

• Status: Research compound only; not FDA-approved for human use

Mechanism of Action

GHRP-2 functions through a well-characterized mechanism involving the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR) .

Receptor Binding:

• GHRP-2 binds to the GHSR in the pituitary and hypothalamus, a receptor distinct from the GHRH receptor 

• This binding stimulates GH release in a dose-dependent manner 

Synergistic Effects:

• GHRP-2 acts synergistically with GHRH to promote GH release 

• Co-administration with GHRH produces an additive effect greater than either peptide alone 

Mechanistic Pathways :

1. Calcium Influx: GHRP-2-stimulated GH release requires calcium influx via voltage-dependent calcium channels

2. Protein Kinase C (PKC): Activation of PKC pathways contributes to GH secretion

3. cAMP Pathways: GHRP-2 stimulates GH release through cAMP-mediated signaling

Desensitization:

• GHRP-2 and GHRP-6 desensitize cells to each other (but not to GHRH), confirming they share the same receptor 

• Repeated dosing can cause partial attenuation of GH response, though daily administration maintains consistent stimulation 

Research Applications

Growth Hormone Stimulation Studies

GHRP-2 is widely used as a research tool for studying GH secretion:

• In Vitro: Stimulates GH release from rat, bovine, and human pituitary cells 

• In Vivo: Dose-dependent GH release demonstrated in swine, with peak GH levels returning to baseline by 120 minutes 

• Oral Activity: GHRP-2 is orally active, with GH levels increasing by 15 minutes, peaking at 60 minutes, and returning to baseline by 180 minutes in human studies 

Growth Performance Research

In animal studies, chronic administration of GHRP-2 has demonstrated:

• 22.35% increase in average daily gain in swine (p < 0.05) 

• 20.64% improvement in feed efficiency (feed/gain ratio; p < 0.01) 

• Consistent GH stimulation with once-daily subcutaneous administration over 30 days 

Clinical Research Limitations

A double-blind study in children with growth hormone deficiency found that intranasal GHRP-2 treatment for 48 weeks did not promote growth despite increased GH secretion . Researchers concluded that the transient increase in endogenous GH was insufficient to produce biological effects .

Regulatory Status and Legal Considerations

FDA and Compounding Status

As of June 2026, GHRP-2 is expected to remain restricted on the FDA’s Category 2 list . This means:

• It is not legally compoundable by licensed pharmacies under Section 503A 

• It is not FDA-approved for any human therapeutic indication

• No formal safety and efficacy review has been completed 

Peptides Expected to Remain Restricted :

• GHRP-2

• GHRP-6

• Ibutamoren mesylate

• Kisspeptin-10

Key Clarification: Reclassification governs compounding legality only. It does not confer FDA approval, validated indications, or standardized dosing .

WADA Prohibited Status

GHRP-2 is prohibited in sports as a peptide hormone and growth factor modulator.

Research-Use Only

GHRP-2 is available exclusively from authorized research suppliers for in vitro and preclinical research use only . It is not for human consumption.

Reconstitution & Handling for Research

General Handling :

• Solubility: Soluble in water; prepare stock solutions at 1 mg/mL

• Storage: Lyophilized powder: -20°C (3 years) or 4°C (2 years)

• Stock Solutions: Store at -80°C (up to 6 months) or -20°C (up to 1 month)

• Avoid Repeated Freeze-Thaw: Divide into aliquots to prevent degradation

• Shipping: Stable at ambient temperature for several days

Dosing Note: No validated dosing protocols exist for human use. Clinical and animal research protocols use varying doses depending on species and route of administration .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is GHRP-2?

GHRP-2 is a synthetic hexapeptide that stimulates growth hormone release by binding to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR) .

How does GHRP-2 work?

It binds to GHSR in the pituitary and hypothalamus, stimulating GH release through calcium influx, PKC, and cAMP pathways. It acts synergistically with GHRH .

Is GHRP-2 FDA-approved?

No. GHRP-2 is not FDA-approved for any indication. It remains restricted under FDA Category 2 and is not legally compoundable .

What does research show about GHRP-2?

Animal studies demonstrate dose-dependent GH release and improved growth performance. However, a clinical study in children with GH deficiency showed no growth promotion despite increased GH levels .

Is GHRP-2 banned in sports?

Yes. GHRP-2 is a prohibited substance under WADA regulations.

Can I buy GHRP-2?

GHRP-2 is available from research suppliers for laboratory use only. It is not legally marketed for human consumption .