Cagrilintide vs Hexarelin
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
GLP-1 / Weight Loss Agonists
CagrilintideGrowth Hormone Peptides
Hexarelin- Summary
- Cagrilintide is a long-acting amylin analog developed by Novo Nordisk. Amylin is a peptide hormone co-secreted with insulin from pancreatic beta cells. Cagrilintide slows gastric emptying, suppresses glucagon, and reduces appetite via central amylin receptors. In combination with semaglutide (CagriSema), Phase 2 trials achieved approximately 15% body weight reduction. Phase 3 trials (REDEFINE program) are ongoing.
- Hexarelin is a potent synthetic GHRP and the strongest GH secretagogue in its class per unit dose. It also exhibits unique cardioprotective properties through direct binding to cardiac CD36 receptors, independent of GH release. Its potency is balanced by a tendency to desensitize GH release with prolonged use, making cycling important.
- Half-Life
- ~7–10 days
- ~70 minutes
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ
- Research
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- —
- Typical Dose
- 0.16 mg → 0.3 mg → 0.6 mg → 1.2 mg → 2.4 mg
- 100–200 mcg
- Frequency
- Once weekly
- 2–3 times daily
- Key Benefits
- ~15% body weight reduction in combination with semaglutide (CagriSema Phase 2)
- Synergistic appetite suppression complementing GLP-1 receptor agonists
- Reduces post-meal glucagon excursions improving glycemic control
- Slows gastric emptying contributing to prolonged satiety
- Once-weekly dosing via subcutaneous injection
- Potential for greater weight loss than semaglutide monotherapy
- Strongest GH pulse per mcg among GHRPs
- Unique direct cardioprotective effects via CD36
- Increased IGF-1 and muscle anabolism
- Accelerated recovery from training
- Bone density support
- Anti-aging via GH axis
- Potential cardiac rehabilitation benefits
- Side Effects
- Nausea (most common, especially during titration)
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea
- +2 more
- Water retention
- Elevated cortisol
- Elevated prolactin (more pronounced than other GHRPs)
- Receptor desensitization with continuous use
- +1 more
- Stacks With
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