GHK vs Hexarelin
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- GHK is the natural tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) released from human albumin that activates tissue remodeling, collagen synthesis, and anti-aging gene expression. The copper-free form is the biological signaling molecule; it chelates copper in tissue to form GHK-Cu but also has independent biological activity.
- 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
- Extremely short as free peptide; tissue binding extends local effects
- ~70 minutes
- Admin Route
- SubQ, Topical, Oral
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 100–500 mcg
- 100–200 mcg
- Frequency
- Daily or 5x per week
- 2–3 times daily
- Key Benefits
- Stimulates collagen and extracellular matrix synthesis
- Activates tissue repair gene expression programs
- Anti-aging: reverses 57% of age-related gene changes
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
- Wound healing and skin barrier repair
- Improves skin laxity, texture, and radiance
- Neuroprotective (stimulates NGF, BDNF)
- Anti-fibrotic in liver and lung models
- 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
- Excellent safety profile (naturally occurring peptide)
- Rare: mild injection site reaction (SC)
- No significant adverse effects identified in research
- Water retention
- Elevated cortisol
- Elevated prolactin (more pronounced than other GHRPs)
- Receptor desensitization with continuous use
- +1 more
- Stacks With
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