GHK vs Leuprolide
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticAnti-Aging & Longevity
GHKSexual Health & Libido
Leuprolide- 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.
- Leuprolide is a synthetic GnRH superagonist that, with continuous administration, paradoxically suppresses LH and FSH through receptor desensitization — the opposite effect of pulsatile GnRH. Used medically for prostate cancer, endometriosis, and precocious puberty. In men's health, short-duration use for PCT and testosterone suppression rebound.
- Half-Life
- Extremely short as free peptide; tissue binding extends local effects
- ~3 hours (SC/IM), but depot formulations last 1–12 months
- Admin Route
- SubQ, Topical, Oral
- SubQ, IM
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 100–500 mcg
- 7.5 mg monthly, 22.5 mg 3-monthly, or 45 mg 6-monthly
- Frequency
- Daily or 5x per week
- Per depot schedule
- 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
- Medical: reduces testosterone in prostate cancer
- Medical: suppresses estrogen in endometriosis and uterine fibroids
- Medical: delays precocious puberty
- Research: testosterone rebound effect after short course
- Transgender care: hormone suppression in adolescents
- Research: hormonal re-sensitization protocols
- Side Effects
- Excellent safety profile (naturally occurring peptide)
- Rare: mild injection site reaction (SC)
- No significant adverse effects identified in research
- Hot flashes (with testosterone suppression)
- Decreased libido and erectile dysfunction
- Initial testosterone flare (first 1–2 weeks)
- Bone density loss with long-term use
- +3 more
- Stacks With
- —
- —