GHRP-6 vs Octreotide
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
GHRP-6
Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide 6 (GHRP-6) is one of the first synthetic growth hormone secretagogues discovered. It stimulates significant GH release but is known for causing intense hunger.
Full details →Octreotide
Octreotide (Sandostatin) is a synthetic somatostatin analog FDA-approved for acromegaly, carcinoid tumors, and VIPomas. It inhibits growth hormone and various GI hormones.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | GHRP-6 | Octreotide |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Acts as a ghrelin mimetic, binding to the GHS-R receptor in the pituitary and hypothalamus. Stimulates GH release and also significantly increases appetite by mimicking ghrelin's hunger-signaling effects. | Binds to somatostatin receptors (primarily SSTR2 and SSTR5) to inhibit GH, glucagon, insulin, and gastric secretions. Reduces blood flow to GI tract and inhibits tumor hormone secretion. |
| Typical Dosage | Typical dosing: 100-300mcg administered 2-3 times daily. Often combined with GHRH peptides like CJC-1295 for synergistic effects. | Varies by indication. Acromegaly: 50-100mcg three times daily initially, up to 500mcg TID. LAR (long-acting): 20-30mg IM every 4 weeks. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection. Best administered on an empty stomach. The strong hunger response can be beneficial for those trying to gain weight but challenging for cutting. | Subcutaneous injection for immediate-release (between meals). Intramuscular for LAR depot form. Requires monitoring of gallbladder, glucose, and thyroid. |
| Side Effects | Intense hunger (most notable effect), water retention, increased cortisol and prolactin, tingling/numbness, and potential blood pressure changes. | GI effects (diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain), gallstones (up to 25% of long-term users), injection site reactions, and blood glucose changes. |
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