Hexarelin (Examorelin)
Hexarelin (also known as Examorelin) is a synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone releasing peptide (GHRP) and one of the most potent GH secretagogues studied.
Also known as: Hexapeptide GHRP, Growth Hormone Release & Cardioprotection, Examorelin
Overview
Hexarelin (also known as Examorelin) is a synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone releasing peptide (GHRP) and one of the most potent GH secretagogues studied. Derived from GHRP-6 by Mediolanum Farmaceutici, it stimulates growth hormone release through the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) and uniquely binds to cardiac CD36 receptors, providing cardioprotective effects independent of GH release. Hexarelin reached Phase II clinical trials for growth hormone deficiency and congestive heart failure but was discontinued in 2005 for strategic reasons. Research demonstrates its potential in cardioprotection, neuroprotection, and metabolic regulation.
Key Benefits
- Growth Hormone Release
- IGF-1 Elevation
- Pulsatile GH Pattern
Most potent GHRP for GH release, unique cardioprotective effects via CD36 receptor, supports tissue repair and recovery, neuroprotective properties
Mechanism of Action
Binds to ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) on pituitary somatotrophs to stimulate pulsatile GH release. Also activates cardiac CD36 receptors providing GH-independent cardioprotection through anti-apoptotic and anti-fibrotic mechanisms.
Pharmacokinetics
Peak plasma concentration: 30 min. Elimination half-life: 1 hr. Largely cleared by: ~5 hrs.
Research Protocols Injectable
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| GH Optimization | 100 mcg | 3x daily (morning, midday, evening) | Subcutaneous |
| Cardioprotection Research | 100-200 mcg | 2x daily | Subcutaneous |
| Recovery/Anti-Aging | 100 mcg | 2x daily (morning and bedtime) | Subcutaneous |
| With GHRH (Synergistic) | 100 mcg hexarelin + 100 mcg CJC-1295 | 2-3x daily | Subcutaneous |
Research protocols from published literature — not dosing recommendations.
Peptide Interactions
- CJC-1295 (without DAC) — Synergistic: GHRP + GHRH combination provides complementary GH release through different receptor pathways. Studies show synergistic peak GH secretion rates greater than the arithmetic sum of isolated administration.
- Sermorelin — Synergistic: GHRH analog enhances hexarelin's pulsatile GH release. Research demonstrates synergistic effects when co-administered, though synergy diminishes with repeated dosing.
- Ipamorelin — Compatible: Both are GHRPs with different selectivity profiles. Combining may soften hexarelin's cortisol/prolactin elevation while maintaining GH output through complementary receptor activity.
- GHRP-6 — Use Caution: Both GHRPs stimulate GH through similar pathways. Combination may cause excessive GH spikes and additive side effects including cortisol and prolactin elevation.
- GHRP-2 — Use Caution: Structurally similar GHRPs with overlapping mechanisms. Combining provides diminishing returns with increased risk of hormonal side effects.
- CJC-1295 with DAC — Use Caution: DAC version provides continuous GH elevation which may conflict with hexarelin's pulsatile release pattern, potentially reducing synergistic benefits and accelerating desensitization.
- MK-677 — Monitor Combination: Both stimulate GH through ghrelin receptor. MK-677's continuous oral action combined with hexarelin may lead to excessive and prolonged GH elevation requiring monitoring.
- Tesamorelin — Synergistic: FDA-approved GHRH analog works through complementary pathway. Studies on GHRH + hexarelin combinations show synergistic GH release significantly greater than either alone.
- HGH — Avoid Combination: Exogenous HGH suppresses natural GH release pathways. Combining defeats hexarelin's purpose and may cause excessive GH levels with increased side effects.
- BPC-157 — Compatible: Different mechanisms with no known interactions. BPC-157's tissue repair properties may complement hexarelin's recovery and cardioprotective effects.
Peptide Instructions Injectable
Supplies:
- Hexarelin lyophilized powder vial (typically 2mg or 5mg)
- Bacteriostatic water (2mL per 2mg vial)
- Insulin syringes (29-31 gauge)
- Alcohol prep pads
- Sterile mixing needle (optional)
How to Reconstitute Injectable
- 1Clean both vial tops with alcohol and let dry completely
- 2For 2mg vial: Add 2mL bacteriostatic water (creates 100mcg per 10 units)
- 3For 5mg vial: Add 2.5mL bacteriostatic water (creates 200mcg per 10 units)
- 4Inject water slowly down the side of the vial to prevent foaming
- 5Gently swirl or roll vial - do not shake vigorously
- 6Solution should be clear and colorless
- 7Label with reconstitution date and concentration
- 8Store immediately in refrigerator at 2-8°C
What to Expect Injectable
Day 1-7: Improved sleep quality, potential facial flushing post-injection, increased appetite possible. Week 2-4: Enhanced recovery from exercise, improved skin quality, beginning of body composition changes. Week 4-8: Noticeable improvements in lean mass and fat loss, some desensitization may begin. Week 8-12: Continued benefits but GH response reduced 40-50% from baseline. Week 12-16: Maximum cycle length - take mandatory 4-6 week break to restore sensitivity. Post-cycle: GH response recovers to near-baseline within 4 weeks off.
Side Effects & Safety
Most potent GHRP but also highest side effect profile among GHRPs. Elevates cortisol and prolactin at standard doses - unlike Ipamorelin. May cause water retention, particularly in first 1-2 weeks. Can affect glucose metabolism - monitor if diabetic or pre-diabetic. Not recommended for those with active cancer due to growth-promoting effects. WADA prohibited substance - banned in competitive sports. Secondary hypogonadism possible with prolonged use due to prolactin elevation. Partial desensitization is normal and reversible with cycling.
Most potent GHRP but also highest side effect profile among GHRPs. Elevates cortisol and prolactin at standard doses - unlike Ipamorelin. May cause water retention, particularly in first 1-2 weeks. Can affect glucose metabolism - monitor if diabetic or pre-diabetic. Not recommended for those with active cancer due to growth-promoting effects. WADA prohibited substance - banned in competitive sports. Secondary hypogonadism possible with prolonged use due to prolactin elevation. Partial desensitization is normal and reversible with cycling.
Community Insights
Hexarelin (Examorelin) should be stored at Refrigerate at 2-8°C immediately after reconstitution. Use within 4 weeks..
Molecular Information
References
- Protective Effects of Hexarelin and JMV2894 in a Human Neuroblastoma Cell Line Expressing the SOD1-G93A Mutated Protein
- Protective Effects of Hexarelin in ALS Neuroblastoma Model
- Growth hormone secretagogues: history, mechanism of action, and clinical development
- Growth hormone secretagogues and the regulation of calcium signaling in muscle
- Hexarelin treatment preserves myocardial function and reduces cardiac fibrosis in a mouse model of acute myocardial infarction
- Cardiovascular Action of Hexarelin Review
- Chronic administration of hexarelin attenuates cardiac fibrosis in the spontaneously hypertensive rat
- The cardiovascular action of hexarelin
- Hexarelin Desensitization Study
- Growth hormone-independent cardioprotective effects of hexarelin in the rat
- Hexarelin Pharmacokinetics in Rats
- Growth hormone-releasing activity of hexarelin in humans. A dose-response study
Research reference only. Not medical advice.