Comparison
Hexarelin vs. Octreotide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Growth
Research other
CAS no.
140703-51-1
83150-76-9
Molecular weight
887.05 g/mol
1019.24 g/mol
Half-life
0.9 h
1.7 h
Sequence
His-D-2-methyl-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2D-Phe-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-Thr-Cys-Thr(ol)Mechanism 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.
Octreotide
Octreotide is a cyclic octapeptide that selectively binds somatostatin-receptor subtypes SSTR2 and SSTR5. Via G-protein-coupled signalling, adenylyl cyclase is inhibited, reducing the secretion of multiple hormones (growth hormone, IGF-1, glucagon, insulin, VIP, serotonin). Structural stabilisation via a disulfide bridge and D-amino acids extends the half-life relative to natural somatostatin (minutes to several hours).
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human RCT
Studies
4
5
of which in humans
3
4
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
0
0
Documented adverse events
1
2