GHRP-2
Pralmorelin (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide 2)
Also known as: Pralmorelin
A second-generation GH secretagogue approved in Japan as a diagnostic agent, producing strong GH release with less appetite effect than GHRP-6.
Overview
GHRP-2, or pralmorelin, is a synthetic GH-releasing peptide approved in Japan as a diagnostic test of pituitary GH secretion. It produces robust GH release with less appetite stimulation than GHRP-6, though it can still raise cortisol and prolactin somewhat. Outside its diagnostic approval it is not an approved therapeutic.
Mechanism of action
Agonizes the ghrelin/GH secretagogue receptor to stimulate a strong pulse of growth hormone from the pituitary.
Key studies & citations
- Human2007
A simple diagnostic test using GH-releasing peptide-2 in adult GH deficiency
Validation in 77 healthy subjects and 58 GH-deficient patients: a 100 microgram IV GHRP-2 test with a 15 microgram/L peak cut-off reliably identified severe adult GH deficiency.
European Journal of Endocrinology - Review2004
Pralmorelin: GHRP 2, GPA 748, growth hormone-releasing peptide 2, KP-102 D, KP-102 LN
Development profile: Kaken's pralmorelin as a diagnostic agent for hypothalamo-pituitary function in Japan; US therapeutic development appeared discontinued.
Drugs in R and D - Human2005
Growth hormone releasing peptide-2 (GHRP-2), like ghrelin, increases food intake in healthy men
A GHRP-2 infusion increased ad libitum intake by about 36% in seven lean men alongside a strong GH rise, so its appetite effect is reduced rather than absent.
Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
Frequently asked questions
Is GHRP-2 approved anywhere?
It is approved in Japan as a diagnostic test of growth hormone secretion. It is not approved as a therapy in the US, UK, Australia, or Canada.