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Preclinical WADA prohibitedGH / growth factors

Hexarelin

A potent GHRP-family hexapeptide studied for GH stimulation in early clinical research, including cardiac contexts, but never developed into an approved medicine.

CompoundHexarelin
CategoryGH-releasing hexapeptide
ClassGrowth Hormone and Growth Factors
Evidence tierPreclinical
WADA statusProhibited in sport (or falls under a prohibited class) — see the WADA reference table
Sold on this siteNo — this is a reference database

Overview

Hexarelin is catalogued here as a gh-releasing hexapeptide and graded at the "Preclinical" evidence tier. The evidence base for this compound is dominated by animal and cell-culture studies. Mechanism may be plausible; human benefit and safety are unestablished.

A potent GHRP-family hexapeptide studied for GH stimulation in early clinical research, including cardiac contexts, but never developed into an approved medicine.

Mechanism of Action

Hexarelin is a strong ghrelin-receptor agonist producing larger GH pulses than many siblings, with some evidence of direct cardiac receptor effects independent of GH release.

Research and Evidence

Small human studies characterized GH response and cardiac hemodynamics in the 1990s–2000s; development for heart failure indications did not reach approval.

Evidence in context: the Growth Hormone and Growth Factors class page collects the shared evidence themes and study-reading guidance for this category.

Safety and Side Effects

Prolactin and cortisol responses were observed at higher doses. It is prohibited in sport.

Educational notice: this entry describes published research and, where they exist, regulator labels. It is not medical advice and not a recommendation for use. Research-grade compounds have no verified human-safety data.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the evidence tier of Hexarelin?

Hexarelin is graded "Preclinical" on this site. The evidence base for this compound is dominated by animal and cell-culture studies. Mechanism may be plausible; human benefit and safety are unestablished.

Is Hexarelin an approved medicine?

No. Preclinical means the compound has not reached universal regulatory approval; the tier description above explains exactly what level of evidence exists.

Where can I read the primary studies for Hexarelin?

The references section at the end of this entry links the key primary sources — regulator labels, trial registrations, and peer-reviewed papers. Our "How to Read a Peptide Study" guide explains how to evaluate them.

References

  1. ClinicalTrials.gov — search for hexarelin studies. [source]
  2. WADA Prohibited List. [source]
EM
Dr. Elena Marsh, PhDMolecular Pharmacology · Lead Editor

Written and maintained by the editorial team. Medically reviewed by Dr. James Okafor, MD (Internal Medicine).

Evidence tier: Preclinical · Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Sources cited below.

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