GHRP-6 (10 mg Vial) Dosage Protocol
Educational resource for reconstitution and administration of GHRP-6, a synthetic hexapeptide investigated for its capacity to trigger pulsatile growth hormone secretion via ghrelin receptor activation and support anabolic outcomes through IGF-1 elevation.
Quickstart Highlights
GHRP-6 represents a synthetic hexapeptide that operates as a robust growth hormone secretagogue through its binding to the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a). This mechanism initiates pulsatile GH discharge from the pituitary gland while preserving natural feedback regulation, boosting IGF-1 concentrations and facilitating anabolic advantages via a thrice-daily subcutaneous regimen.
- Reconstitute: Add 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water to yield approximately 3.33 mg/mL concentration
- Standard range: 100–300 mcg per dose, administered three times daily (subcutaneous)
- Easy measuring: At 3.33 mg/mL, 1 unit = 0.01 mL = 33.3 mcg on a U-100 insulin syringe
- Storage: Lyophilized powder: freeze at −20 °C (−4 °F); reconstituted solution: refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F) and consume within 7 days
Dosing & Reconstitution Guide
Educational reference for reconstitution procedures and daily administration
Subcutaneous Protocol (3 mL = ~3.33 mg/mL)
| Week/Phase | Dose per Injection | Units (per injection) | mL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–2 | 100 mcg | 3 units | 0.03 mL |
| Weeks 3–4 | 200 mcg | 6 units | 0.06 mL |
| Weeks 5–12 | 300 mcg | 9 units | 0.09 mL |
Frequency: Three times daily subcutaneously, spaced at least 4 hours apart (morning, midday, bedtime). On empty stomach (2–3 hours after meals, 30 minutes before eating).
Reconstitution Steps
- Draw 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water with sterile syringe
- Inject slowly down vial wall to avoid foaming; do not shake
- Gently swirl or roll until powder completely dissolves
- Label with date and concentration; refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F), protected from light
- Use within 7 days of reconstitution for optimal potency
How This Works
GHRP-6 operates as a synthetic ghrelin mimetic through its binding affinity to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a) located in both pituitary and hypothalamic tissues. This interaction precipitates acute pulsatile GH discharge while simultaneously diminishing somatostatin's suppressive influence. Unlike continuous GH administration, GHRP-6 upholds physiological feedback mechanisms—as GH and IGF-1 concentrations increase, endogenous somatostatin production rises to prevent excessive elevation, maintaining pulses within normal physiological boundaries.
Furthermore, GHRP-6 demonstrates cytoprotective characteristics through engagement with the CD36 receptor present on immune and muscle cells, triggering cell-survival signaling cascades (PI3K/Akt) that shield tissues from oxidative damage and inflammatory processes.
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
Observations derived from preclinical and early clinical research literature.
Potential Benefits
- Muscle Growth & Fat Loss: Elevated GH and IGF-1 support increased lean mass and reduced fat
- Enhanced Recovery: Improved sleep architecture and faster tissue repair
- Appetite Stimulation: May increase hunger due to ghrelin receptor activation
- Tissue Protection: Preclinical studies show cytoprotective effects including reduced scarring, cardioprotection, and neuroprotection
- Joint & Connective Tissue: May support collagen synthesis through elevated IGF-1
Potential Side Effects
- Transient mild increases in cortisol and ACTH (typically not clinically significant)
- Increased appetite and potential water retention
- Occasional injection-site reactions (redness, itching, mild swelling)
- Possible transient dizziness or flushed feeling after injection due to rapid GH spike
- Generally well-tolerated in human trials with no major safety concerns reported
Injection Technique
General subcutaneous administration guidance based on clinical best-practice protocols.
- Preparation: Clean vial stopper and injection site with alcohol swabs; allow to dry completely
- Drawing: Use new sterile insulin syringe; draw calculated units and check for air bubbles
- Site Selection: Rotate between abdomen (2+ inches from navel), outer thighs, upper arms; avoid repeated same-spot injections
- Technique: Pinch skinfold; insert needle at 45–90° angle into subcutaneous tissue
- Administration: Do not aspirate for subcutaneous injections; inject slowly and steadily; hold for seconds before withdrawing
- Disposal: Immediately dispose in puncture-proof sharps container; never reuse needles
Important Notes
Practical considerations for consistency and safety protocols.
- Use new sterile insulin syringes for each injection; dispose in sharps container
- Rotate injection sites systematically to reduce lipohypertrophy and local irritation
- Inject slowly and wait seconds before withdrawing needle
- GHRP-6 may increase appetite in some users due to its ghrelin-mimicking properties
- Document daily doses, timing, and sites for consistency
Storage Instructions
- Lyophilized: Store at −20 °C (−4 °F) in dry, dark conditions with desiccant if available
- Reconstituted: Refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F); use within 7 days
- Avoid freeze-thaw cycles: Do not refreeze reconstituted solution
- Allow vials to reach room temperature before opening to minimize condensation
Supplies Needed (12-Week Protocol)
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| GHRP-6 vials (10 mg each) | ~7 vials |
| Insulin syringes (U-100) | 252 syringes (3 × 100-count boxes) |
| Bacteriostatic water (10 mL bottles) | 3 bottles (~21 mL total) |
| Alcohol swabs | 504 swabs (6 × 100-count boxes) |
Important Disclaimer: This content is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. GHRP-6 is intended for research purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new research protocol.
References
GHRP mechanisms and pulsatile GH secretion
Cytoprotective effects and CD36 receptor signaling
Pharmacokinetics and ~2.5 hour half-life