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ToolsCompareSemaglutide vs Hexarelin

Semaglutide vs Hexarelin

Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.

GLP-1 / Weight Loss Agonists
Semaglutide
Growth Hormone Peptides
Hexarelin
Summary
Semaglutide is an FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist originally developed for type 2 diabetes that has proven remarkably effective for weight loss. Clinical trials show average 15–20% body weight reduction. It is marketed as Ozempic (diabetes) and Wegovy (weight management).
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 days
~70 minutes
Admin Route
SubQ, Oral
SubQ
Research
Typical Dose
0.25 mg → 0.5 mg → 1 mg → 1.7 mg → 2.4 mg
100–200 mcg
Frequency
Once weekly, subcutaneous
2–3 times daily
Key Benefits
  • Average 15–20% body weight reduction in clinical trials (STEP trials)
  • Significant reduction in appetite and food cravings
  • Improvement in blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity
  • Reduces cardiovascular risk (SELECT trial: 20% reduction in MACE)
  • May reduce risk of kidney disease
  • Improves metabolic markers (cholesterol, blood pressure)
  • FDA-approved — extensively studied with robust safety data
  • Weekly dosing convenience
  • 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
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Abdominal discomfort
  • +4 more
  • Water retention
  • Elevated cortisol
  • Elevated prolactin (more pronounced than other GHRPs)
  • Receptor desensitization with continuous use
  • +1 more
Stacks With