Mechanism
Hexarelin vs Ipamorelin: Mechanism Comparison
Both are growth hormone releasing peptides acting on the ghrelin receptor. Hexarelin produces the strongest GH spike of any second generation GHRP but at the cost of cortisol and prolactin rises. Ipamorelin is the cleanest.
Side-by-side comparison
| Attribute | Hexarelin | Ipamorelin |
|---|---|---|
| GH spike magnitude | Highest of all GHRPs | Moderate |
| Cortisol effect | Notable rise | Negligible |
| Prolactin effect | Notable rise | Negligible |
| Tachyphylaxis | Within 2 to 4 weeks continuous | Slow, tolerates long designs |
| Best use | Short bursts, cardiac research | Long designs, clean GH support |
Key differences
- ·Hexarelin yields the highest GH spike but raises cortisol and prolactin
- ·Ipamorelin is the cleanest GHRP with negligible cortisol or prolactin effects
- ·Hexarelin tachyphylaxis develops within 2 to 4 weeks of continuous use
- ·Ipamorelin tolerates long designs better
Research summary
Bisi et al. (1999) characterised hexarelin GH potency and cortisol effects. Murphy et al. (1998) defined ipamorelin selectivity. Hexarelin also shows cardioprotective properties in rodent models, distinguishing it beyond the GH axis.