GHRP-6 binds to ghrelin receptors (GHS-R1a) on anterior pituitary somatotroph cells, triggering growth hormone release through a pathway independent of GHRH signaling. This dual mechanism allows for synergistic effects when combined with GHRH analogs in research workflows.
Research Use Only
GHRP-6 — Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6
A synthetic hexapeptide ghrelin receptor agonist studied for its ability to stimulate growth hormone release from the anterior pituitary in research models.
Growth HormoneMuscle Growth
CAS 87616-84-0 • 873.01 g/mol • Prepared for research use • Per research workflow
GHRP-6 Structure
Reference identifiers are batch-specific for coded materials and are documented on the lot COA/SDS rather than inferred or estimated.
Mechanism of Action
GHRP-6 Overview
GHRP-6 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6) is a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a potent agonist of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a), also known as the ghrelin receptor. It was among the earliest growth hormone secretagogues investigated in research settings and remains widely studied today. In preclinical research, GHRP-6 has been shown to stimulate growth hormone release from the anterior pituitary gland through a mechanism distinct from growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). Beyond GH secretion, research has examined its effects on appetite stimulation via the ghrelin pathway, promotion of gastric motility, and potential cardioprotective properties. GHRP-6 is frequently studied alongside GHRH analogs such as CJC-1295 for synergistic growth hormone release, as the two peptides act through complementary receptor pathways. For research use only. Not intended for human consumption.
Purity & Testing
GHRP-6 is listed as 5mg lyophilized vial; 10mg lyophilized vial. Catalog identity: CAS 87616-84-0; formula C46H56N12O6; molecular weight 873.01 g/mol. The lot COA for GHRP-6 is available in your account. Finnrick Analytical performs HPLC purity analysis and mass spectrometry identity confirmation on that lot.
- Catalog configurations: 5mg lyophilized vial, 10mg lyophilized vial
- CAS: 87616-84-0
- Formula: C46H56N12O6
- Molecular weight: 873.01 g/mol
See the GHRP-6 COA page.
Storage & Handling
Store the lyophilized powder at -20°C, protected from light; bring to room temperature before opening. For in-vitro preparation use an appropriate laboratory diluent.
Shipping
Ships worldwide from 6 distribution centers via USPS Ground Advantage
Available for direct research purchase
Research-use-only products are sold strictly for laboratory and research purposes. By purchasing, you acknowledge that these products are not intended for human or veterinary use, and you agree to PharmaOrder's RUO terms of service.
Published Research
Selected peer-reviewed studies referenced in this product overview.
Growth hormone-releasing peptide-6 stimulates GH release in humans through a mechanism independent of GHRH
Bowers CY, Reynolds GA, Durham D, et al. — Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (1990)
Established that GHRP-6 stimulates GH release through a receptor pathway distinct from GHRH, enabling synergistic effects when combined.
Ghrelin mimetics and GH secretagogues: potential therapeutic applications
Arvat E, Maccario M, Di Vito L, et al. — Endocrine Reviews (2001)
Comprehensive review of GH secretagogues including GHRP-6, covering receptor pharmacology, clinical effects, and therapeutic potential.
GHRP-6 acts at the hypothalamus and the pituitary to produce growth hormone release
Popovic V, Damjanovic S, Micic D, et al. — Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (1995)
Demonstrated dual site of action for GHRP-6 at both hypothalamic and pituitary levels for GH release in humans.
FAQ
What is GHRP-6?
GHRP-6 is a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist. It was one of the earliest growth hormone secretagogues studied in research and stimulates GH release from the anterior pituitary through a pathway independent of GHRH.
How does GHRP-6 differ from GHRH analogs like CJC-1295?
GHRP-6 acts on ghrelin receptors (GHS-R1a) while CJC-1295 acts on GHRH receptors. These distinct pathways are complementary, which is why they are often studied together for synergistic growth hormone release in research models.
Does GHRP-6 affect appetite in research models?
Yes. Because GHRP-6 activates ghrelin receptors, research has shown it can stimulate appetite and promote gastric motility in preclinical models. This distinguishes it from some other GH secretagogues like ipamorelin, which have minimal ghrelin-related effects.
How should GHRP-6 be stored?
Store the lyophilized powder at -20°C, protected from light; bring to room temperature before opening. For in-vitro preparation use an appropriate laboratory diluent.
Editorial Review
Updated March 2026. Reviewed against product catalog, quality, and fulfillment standards. This page is educational and not instructions for human use. See our editorial standards and quality process.
Compare GHRP-6
Related Products
RUO
CJC-1295
A synthetic GHRH analog studied for its ability to sustain elevated growth hormone levels in research models.
$45
View Details →
RUO
Ipamorelin
A selective growth hormone secretagogue that mimics ghrelin, studied for its ability to release GH without affecting cortisol or prolactin levels.
$15
View Details →
Ready to order GHRP-6?
In stock. Ships within 24 hours, with tracking.
Order Now