Growth hormone releasing peptide (GHS-R agonist)
Pralmorelin
A potent GH secretagogue peptide with strong GH release in human studies; approved as diagnostic in some countries.
- Evidence:
- Moderate human evidence
- Status:
- Approved outside the U.S. (context-specific)
- Reviewed:
- 2026-08-03
Also known as: Pralmorelin, KP-102
What is Pralmorelin?
A potent GH secretagogue peptide with strong GH release in human studies; approved as diagnostic in some countries.
This profile is educational. It organizes publicly discussed research context for Pralmorelin and related naming aliases — it is not a treatment guide.
Proposed mechanism
GHS-R1a agonism stimulates GH release; also stimulates cortisol and prolactin to a greater degree than ipamorelin.
Mechanism language on PepGuide describes how researchers discuss pathways. Proposed mechanisms can change as evidence evolves.
Current research notes
Human evidence grade: Moderate human evidence
Preclinical evidence grade: Strong human evidence
GHRP-2 (pralmorelin) is approved in Japan as a diagnostic test for GH deficiency. Potent GH release documented in humans. Also increases appetite via ghrelin pathway. WADA prohibited. Not FDA approved therapeutically.
Key uncertainties
- Therapeutic development outside diagnostics
Research areas being studied
- GH deficiency diagnosis
- GH axis research
Being studied for a topic is not the same as proven benefit in that topic. Prefer primary literature for study design, endpoints, and limitations.
Safety & side-effect notes
Reported or discussed adverse effects
- Hunger
- Cortisol rise
- Injection-site reactions
Additional risks & considerations
- Cortisol/prolactin elevation
- Appetite increase
- WADA prohibited
Regulatory status
Approved outside the U.S. (context-specific)
Diagnostic use in Japan; not FDA approved therapeutically.
Regulatory framing here is educational and can lag policy changes. Check official sources for current status.
Frequently asked questions
What is Pralmorelin?
A potent GH secretagogue peptide with strong GH release in human studies; approved as diagnostic in some countries.
How does Pralmorelin work (proposed mechanism)?
GHS-R1a agonism stimulates GH release; also stimulates cortisol and prolactin to a greater degree than ipamorelin.
What is Pralmorelin being researched for?
Pralmorelin has been discussed in research contexts including: GH deficiency diagnosis, GH axis research.
What does current evidence say about Pralmorelin?
Moderate human evidence. GHRP-2 (pralmorelin) is approved in Japan as a diagnostic test for GH deficiency. Potent GH release documented in humans. Also increases appetite via ghrelin pathway. WADA prohibited. Not FDA approved therapeutically.
What safety considerations are noted for Pralmorelin?
Reported or discussed considerations include: Hunger; Cortisol rise; Injection-site reactions; Cortisol/prolactin elevation; Appetite increase; WADA prohibited. This is educational information, not medical advice.
Is Pralmorelin FDA approved?
Approved outside the U.S. (context-specific). Diagnostic use in Japan; not FDA approved therapeutically.
References & sources
- Bowers CY et al. (1990). GHRP-2 stimulates GH release in humans — J Clin Endocrinol Metab. Evidence type: human.
Prefer interactive tools? Open the PepGuide library entry for Pralmorelin or ask PepGuide AI.
Educational and research information only. PepGuide does not sell or prescribe peptides, diagnose conditions, or provide personalized medical advice. Evidence summaries may include early-stage, animal, or limited human research — none of that is a substitute for primary literature or clinician guidance.