Comparison
GHRP-2 vs. Thymalin
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Growth
Healing
CAS no.
158861-67-7
63958-90-7
Molecular weight
817.93 g/mol
1000 g/mol
Half-life
0.5 h
0.5 h
Sequence
D-Ala-D-2-Naphthyl-Ala-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2no data
Mechanism 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.
Thymalin
Thymalin is a complex of multiple polypeptides extracted from bovine or calf thymus. Postulated mechanisms include modulation of T-lymphocyte maturation, influence on interleukin profiles and stimulation of cellular immune response. Being a multi-component preparation, individual mechanisms are difficult to disentangle. Khavinson and colleagues from St Petersburg have described the mechanism over decades in Russian publications.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human trial
Studies
4
4
of which in humans
4
2
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
0
1
Documented adverse events
1
1