# GHRP-2

> Evidence tier B — Small human studies · GH & Growth · reviewed 2026-11-08
> Source page: https://peptidemeta.com/p/ghrp-2/

Also known as: Pralmorelin, KP-102, GHRP-2

## Quick answers

**What is GHRP-2?**

A potent growth hormone releasing peptide that acts on the ghrelin receptor.

**How strong is the evidence for GHRP-2?**

Tier B (small human studies) on the peptidemeta evidence scale. Human data are mainly small pharmacological and diagnostic studies; approved only in Japan as a GH-deficiency diagnostic.

**Is GHRP-2 FDA-approved?**

No. GHRP-2 is not approved by the FDA for any use. Outside the US: Japan — pralmorelin (GHRP Kaken 100) diagnostic for GH deficiency.

**Is GHRP-2 banned in sport?**

Yes. GHRP-2 is prohibited in sport by the World Anti-Doping Agency under S2 (peptide hormones, growth factors, related substances and mimetics).

**How does GHRP-2 work?**

GHRP-2 is a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a potent agonist of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a/ghrelin receptor) in the pituitary and hypothalamus. It stimulates GH release through both a direct pituitary action and by amplifying GHRH signaling, while also modestly activating the ghrelin appetite pathway.

**What is known about the safety of GHRP-2?**

Human study data available. Can elevate cortisol and prolactin at higher doses.

## Key facts

- **Evidence tier:** B (Small human studies)
- **FDA:** not approved
- **Other approvals:** Japan — pralmorelin (GHRP Kaken 100) diagnostic for GH deficiency
- **WADA:** prohibited (S2)
- **Peptide:** yes
- **Routes studied:** Subcutaneous, Intramuscular

## Overview

A potent growth hormone releasing peptide that acts on the ghrelin receptor. It produces a strong GH pulse but may modestly increase cortisol and prolactin at higher doses.

## Mechanism

GHRP-2 is a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a potent agonist of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a/ghrelin receptor) in the pituitary and hypothalamus. It stimulates GH release through both a direct pituitary action and by amplifying GHRH signaling, while also modestly activating the ghrelin appetite pathway.

## Effects reported in research

_Reported outcomes, not promises; see the evidence tier._

- Strong growth hormone pulse
- Increased appetite stimulation
- Enhanced deep sleep onset
- Improved recovery from training

## Safety & unknowns

Human study data available. Can elevate cortisol and prolactin at higher doses. Appetite stimulation may be unwanted. Common side effects: increased hunger, water retention, transient flushing. Not FDA-approved.

## Status sources

- [PubMed: pralmorelin](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=pralmorelin)
- [WADA 2026 Prohibited List](https://www.wada-ama.org/en/prohibited-list)

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Educational reference only — not medical advice. No dosing information is published. Tiers rate the strength of published evidence, not effectiveness or safety.