Growth Hormone Secretagogues: Research Status and Evidence
An evidence-based overview of growth hormone-releasing peptides and secretagogues — what the research shows, regulatory status, and common misconceptions.
Filed under evidence research, written for researcher, clinician, patient-consumer, evidence level C.
Not medically reviewed. Last updated 2026-04-25. Nothing here is medical advice.
Growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) are substances that stimulate the release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland. This category includes both peptide and non-peptide compounds, several of which are sold in the unregulated peptide market.
Classes of Growth Hormone Secretagogues
GHRH Analogs
**CJC-1295**: A synthetic GHRH analog with extended half-life (via DAC technology)
**Sermorelin**: A truncated GHRH analog (previously FDA-approved as a diagnostic agent)
**Tesamorelin**: FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy (Egrifta)
Ghrelin Mimetics (GHRPs)
**GHRP-2**: Research peptide, not approved for therapeutic use
**GHRP-6**: Research peptide, not approved for therapeutic use
**Ipamorelin**: Research peptide, not approved for therapeutic use
**Hexarelin**: Research peptide, not approved for therapeutic use
Non-Peptide GHS
**MK-677 (Ibutamoren)**: Oral ghrelin mimetic, not approved for therapeutic use
Evidence Assessment
Tesamorelin — Evidence Level A
FDA-approved. Strong clinical evidence for reducing visceral fat in HIV lipodystrophy.
Sermorelin — Evidence Level B
Previously approved for GH deficiency diagnosis. Some clinical data for GH stimulation, but diagnostic approval was withdrawn due to commercial reasons, not safety.
Limited human data. Most evidence is from small studies, animal models, or mechanistic research. These peptides are not approved for therapeutic use in any major jurisdiction.
MK-677 — Evidence Level C
Multiple human studies but no regulatory approval. Notable safety concerns including increased appetite, water retention, and potential effects on glucose metabolism.
Regulatory Status
All GHRPs and GHS (except tesamorelin) are unapproved for therapeutic use
Prohibited by WADA under category S2
Sold widely in the unregulated "research peptide" market
FDA has taken enforcement action against sellers making therapeutic claims
Common Misconceptions
GHS do not produce the same effects as exogenous growth hormone administration
The GH pulses from GHS are subject to negative feedback
Long-term safety data is limited for most GHS
"Anti-aging" claims for GHS are not supported by approved clinical evidence
This article provides research education and does not constitute medical advice or encourage use of unapproved products.