Comparison
GHRP-6 vs. Tirzepatide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Growth
Metabolic
CAS no.
87616-84-0
2023788-19-2
Molecular weight
873.02 g/mol
4813 g/mol
Half-life
0.4 h
116 h
Sequence
His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2YXEGTFTSDYSIYLDKIAQKAFVQWLIAGGPSSGAPPPSMechanism of action
GHRP-6
GHRP-6 is a high-affinity agonist of the growth-hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHSR-1a) — the same receptor later shown to bind the endogenous hormone ghrelin. The identification of GHRP-6 as a pharmacological anchor led to cloning of GHSR in 1996 and the discovery of ghrelin itself in 1999. GHRP-6 stimulates pituitary GH secretion via a pathway independent of GHRH and can be combined synergistically with GHRH. Via GHSR in the hypothalamus it additionally activates NPY/AgRP neurons, producing an orexigenic (appetite-stimulating) effect in animal models.
Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide is a 39-amino-acid peptide acting as a dual agonist at the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. Activation of both incretin receptors via G-protein-coupled signalling raises insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, lowers glucagon secretion and delays gastric emptying. Centrally, satiety perception is modulated. A fatty-acid side chain binds to serum albumin and extends the half-life to about five days.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human RCT
Studies
4
3
of which in humans
2
3
Effects recorded
4
4
Open conflicts
1
0
Documented adverse events
2
2