Comparison
GHRP-2 vs. Lixisenatide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Growth
Metabolic
CAS no.
158861-67-7
320367-13-3
Molecular weight
817.93 g/mol
4858.5 g/mol
Half-life
0.5 h
3 h
Sequence
D-Ala-D-2-Naphthyl-Ala-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2HGEGTFTSDLSKQMEEEAVRLFIEWLKNGGPSSGAPPSKKKKKK-NH2Mechanism of action
GHRP-2
GHRP-2 binds with high affinity to the GH secretagogue receptor (GHSR-1a) in the pituitary and hypothalamus. Activation leads to rapid release of pulsatile growth hormone. Unlike GHRH, GHRP-2 acts via a separate pathway and can be combined synergistically with GHRH to elicit maximal GH responses in provocation tests.
Lixisenatide
Lixisenatide is a 44-amino-acid peptide based on exendin-4 (see exenatide) with six additional lysine residues at the C-terminus. This modification increases stability against DPP-4 degradation. The short half-life (~3 hours) and plasma peak around mealtime explain the predominantly prandial effect — stronger postprandial glucose action, weaker fasting glucose effect than weekly GLP-1 RAs.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human RCT
Studies
4
5
of which in humans
4
5
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
0
1
Documented adverse events
1
1