Pharmacology

Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptides (GHRPs)

Definition

Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptides (GHRPs) are a class of synthetic peptides that stimulate growth hormone secretion by acting on the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Unlike GHRH, which acts through its own distinct receptor, GHRPs mimic the action of endogenous ghrelin and can amplify GH release synergistically when combined with GHRH. Notable GHRPs include GHRP-2, GHRP-6, hexarelin, and ipamorelin, each differing in their selectivity and side-effect profiles regarding cortisol and prolactin co-release.

Related Compounds

Ipamorelin

An in-depth review of Ipamorelin, a highly selective growth hormone secretagogue pentapeptide, covering its mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, research applications in GH release, bone density, muscle growth, and safety profile.

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Related Studies

Ipamorelin, the first selective growth hormone secretagogue

Raun K, Hansen BS, Johansen NL, et al. · European Journal of Endocrinology (1998)

More Pharmacology Terms

Bioavailability Dose-Response Curve EC50 (Half-Maximal Effective Concentration) Exercise Mimetic First-Pass Metabolism Half-Life IC50 (Half-Maximal Inhibitory Concentration) Immunomodulation

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