Comparison
Hexarelin vs. Ipamorelin
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Growth
Growth
CAS no.
140703-51-1
170851-70-4
Molecular weight
887.05 g/mol
711.86 g/mol
Half-life
0.9 h
2 h
Sequence
His-D-2-methyl-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2Mechanism of action
Hexarelin
Hexarelin is a synthetic analog of the GHRP-6 family binding both the GH secretagogue receptor (GHSR-1a) and CD36. GHSR activation in the pituitary releases pulsatile growth hormone. Via CD36 in endothelium and myocardium, cardioprotective effects have been described in animal studies.
Ipamorelin
Ipamorelin is a selective agonist at the GH secretagogue receptor (GHSR-1a). Compared to GHRP-2 and GHRP-6 its selectivity for the growth-hormone axis is higher; ACTH, cortisol and prolactin are not significantly stimulated in clinical studies. This selectivity was the main reason for its development over older GHRPs.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human RCT
Studies
4
4
of which in humans
3
3
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
0
1
Documented adverse events
1
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Hexarelin and Ipamorelin?
- Hexarelin is classified as "Growth", while Ipamorelin is classified as "Growth". Hexarelin: Synthetic hexapeptide of the growth-hormone secretagogue (GHRP) family. In the 1990s investigated as an acromegaly diagnostic and for GH deficiency. Not an approved medicine. Ipamorelin: Synthetic pentapeptide and selective growth-hormone secretagogue. Developed at Novo Nordisk in the 1990s as a pentapeptide GHRP successor; clinical development was discontinued after phase 2 (post-operative ileus). This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Hexarelin or Ipamorelin?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human trial" for Hexarelin and "Human RCT" for Ipamorelin. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Hexarelin and Ipamorelin in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Hexarelin — Unapproved, Ipamorelin — Unapproved. United States: Hexarelin — Unapproved, Ipamorelin — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.