# GHRP-6

> Evidence tier B — Small human studies · GH & Growth · reviewed 2026-11-08
> Source page: https://peptidemeta.com/p/ghrp-6/

Also known as: GHRP-6, Growth hormone releasing hexapeptide, SKF-110679

## Quick answers

**What is GHRP-6?**

One of the earliest growth hormone releasing peptides studied, known for potent GH release paired with significant appetite stimulation via ghrelin receptor activation.

**How strong is the evidence for GHRP-6?**

Tier B (small human studies) on the peptidemeta evidence scale. Human data are limited to small pharmacological studies of GH release; no approved use.

**Is GHRP-6 FDA-approved?**

No. GHRP-6 is not approved by the FDA for any use.

**Is GHRP-6 banned in sport?**

Yes. GHRP-6 is prohibited in sport by the World Anti-Doping Agency under S2 (peptide hormones, growth factors, related substances and mimetics).

**How does GHRP-6 work?**

GHRP-6 is a synthetic met-enkephalin-derived hexapeptide that activates the GHS-R1a ghrelin receptor on pituitary somatotrophs and hypothalamic arcuate nucleus neurons. It triggers GH release via inositol triphosphate/protein kinase C signaling and also potently stimulates gastric motility and appetite through vagal afferent activation.

**What is known about the safety of GHRP-6?**

Extensively studied in humans. Most prominent side effect is strong appetite stimulation.

## Key facts

- **Evidence tier:** B (Small human studies)
- **FDA:** not approved
- **WADA:** prohibited (S2)
- **Peptide:** yes
- **Discovered:** 1984 — Described by Bowers and colleagues as a synthetic GH-releasing hexapeptide.
- **Routes studied:** Subcutaneous, Intramuscular

## Overview

One of the earliest growth hormone releasing peptides studied, known for potent GH release paired with significant appetite stimulation via ghrelin receptor activation.

## Mechanism

GHRP-6 is a synthetic met-enkephalin-derived hexapeptide that activates the GHS-R1a ghrelin receptor on pituitary somatotrophs and hypothalamic arcuate nucleus neurons. It triggers GH release via inositol triphosphate/protein kinase C signaling and also potently stimulates gastric motility and appetite through vagal afferent activation.

## Effects reported in research

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

- Robust growth hormone secretion
- Pronounced appetite increase
- Gastric motility enhancement
- Improved nitrogen retention

## Safety & unknowns

Extensively studied in humans. Most prominent side effect is strong appetite stimulation. May elevate cortisol and prolactin more than ipamorelin. Water retention and injection site irritation reported. Not FDA-approved.

## Status sources

- [PubMed: GHRP-6 humans](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=GHRP-6+humans)
- [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.