Hexarelin Dosage Guide: Protocols, Calculator & Safety
Everything you need to know about Hexarelin dosing — protocols, safety, and where to buy.
Dose Range
100–200 mcg per injection
Frequency
1–2 times daily; subject to desensitization within 4 weeks
Cycle Length
4–8 weeks (desensitization limits longer use)
Half-Life
~70 minutes
Administration Routes
Quick Reconstitution Calculator
Calculate syringe units instantly
Syringe Draw
10.0 units
2500 mcg/ml · 0.100 ml draw
Dosing Protocols
Conservative beginner protocol:
- Dose: 100 mcg subcutaneous per injection
- Frequency: 1-2x daily
- Timing: Fasted — pre-breakfast and/or pre-bed
- Duration: 4-6 weeks on, then 2-4 weeks off before restarting
- Never continuous use without cycling
Reconstitution: 5 mg vial + 2 mL bacteriostatic water = 2.5 mg/mL. A 100 mcg dose = 0.04 mL = 4 units on U-100 insulin syringe.
Why shorter cycles than GHRP-2/GHRP-6: Hexarelin's more rapid GHS-R1a desensitization means 8-week cycles that work for other GHRPs produce diminishing returns with hexarelin. 4-6 week cycles keep the pituitary responsive and limit cumulative HPA exposure.
Timing options:
- Simplest: 100 mcg pre-bed only (single daily injection, aligns with nocturnal GH pulse)
- Standard: 100 mcg pre-breakfast + 100 mcg pre-bed (two-dose protocol)
- Intensive (not recommended for beginners): 100 mcg pre-breakfast + pre-training + pre-bed (three-dose protocol has higher cortisol exposure)
Why fasted: Elevated glucose and insulin blunt GH release through increased somatostatin tone. Hexarelin is no exception — dose 2-3 hours after last meal minimum.
Labs to run before starting:
- IGF-1 (baseline)
- Fasting insulin, fasting glucose, HbA1c
- Comprehensive metabolic panel
- AM cortisol, prolactin (more important for hexarelin than other GHRPs)
- ACTH (optional; helpful if HPA axis concerns)
Recheck at week 4 and week 6 (end of cycle).
Who should not use hexarelin:
- Users with anxiety, mood disorders, or HPA dysregulation
- Users with prolactin-sensitive conditions
- Users seeking continuous long-term GH support (choose ipamorelin instead)
- Users in caloric deficit (the appetite and cortisol effects interfere)
Optimized intermediate protocol:
- Dose: 150-200 mcg SC per injection
- Frequency: 2x daily (pre-breakfast + pre-bed)
- Cycle: 4-6 weeks on / 2-4 weeks off
- Stack: Paired with GHRH analog for synergistic effect
Hexarelin + GHRH stack:
- Hexarelin: 150-200 mcg SC
- Sermorelin: 200-300 mcg SC, OR
- CJC-1295 (no-DAC): 100-150 mcg SC, OR
- Tesamorelin: 1 mg SC (if VAT reduction is also desired)
- Drawn into same insulin syringe, injected together
The hexarelin tradeoff: Combined hexarelin+GHRH produces the largest GH pulse amplitude of any common peptide protocol. It also produces the highest cumulative cortisol and prolactin exposure. Use this stack when maximum GH pulse is needed for a short (4-6 week) intensive phase, then transition to ipamorelin+CJC for maintenance.
Short-phase strategy (common use pattern):
Week 1-4: Intensive hexarelin + GHRH phase for peak GH pulses Week 5-8: Washout (no GHS) or transition to low-dose ipamorelin Week 9-12: Maintenance with ipamorelin + CJC no-DAC if continued GH support desired Repeat intensive cycle after 8+ weeks off hexarelin
Monitoring during cycle:
- Week 2: Fasting glucose (hexarelin's insulin sensitivity effects appear fastest)
- Week 4: IGF-1, cortisol, prolactin (end-of-cycle benchmark)
- Week 6 (if extended): IGF-1, fasting glucose
If cortisol has risen significantly above baseline at week 4, shorten the cycle or reduce dose.
Dose ceiling: 200 mcg per injection is the practical upper limit. Beyond this, GHS-R1a receptor saturation prevents additional GH release while cortisol continues to rise proportionally.
Advanced strategic use — hexarelin as a specific tool:
Experienced peptide users often position hexarelin as a situational compound rather than a continuous-use GHS. Appropriate contexts:
Short anabolic intensification phase (4-6 weeks):
- Hexarelin 200 mcg SC + CJC-1295 no-DAC 150 mcg SC, 2x daily (fasted)
- Combined with:
After 4-6 weeks, transition to ipamorelin + CJC for 8+ weeks before considering another hexarelin cycle.
Cardiac research context:
The CD36-mediated cardioprotective effects have motivated research interest in hexarelin for cardiac applications. Any such use should be under formal clinical research protocols or specialist medical supervision — it is not appropriate for self-experimentation.
Situations where hexarelin is the wrong choice:
- Continuous daily long-term GH optimization — faster receptor desensitization and higher cumulative cortisol/prolactin make ipamorelin a better fit
- Caloric deficit / cutting phases — appetite and cortisol effects interfere with deficit maintenance
- Users with anxiety, HPA dysregulation, or prolactin sensitivity — use ipamorelin instead
- Users with established cardiovascular disease — while preclinical CD36 data is favorable, no clinical cardiac indication has been validated; the acute blood pressure and cortisol effects may be problematic
- Users on GLP-1 agonists during active deficit — opposing appetite signals
Combinations to manage:
- Hexarelin + testosterone replacement: Additive anabolic effects; standard for short aggressive phases
- Hexarelin + BPC-157/TB-500: Complementary; different pathways; safe stacking
- Hexarelin + NAD+ or longevity protocols: Non-interfering but hexarelin's cortisol profile makes it a poor fit for longevity-focused protocols that emphasize HPA axis moderation
Combinations to avoid:
- Hexarelin + other GHRPs (GHRP-2, GHRP-6, ipamorelin, MK-677) — mechanistically redundant
- Hexarelin + glucocorticoid therapy — additive HPA load, reduced GH response
- Hexarelin + aggressive stimulants — additive HPA and sympathomimetic load
Discontinuation triggers:
- Cortisol/prolactin elevation beyond acceptable thresholds on lab follow-up
- Mood changes, new anxiety, or insomnia
- Fasting glucose >110 mg/dL persistently
- Persistent joint pain or edema
- Any cardiovascular symptoms
- Body composition changes suggesting cumulative cortisol effects (central adiposity, buffalo hump, moon face)
Weight-Based Dosing
Commonly Stacked With
Synergistic Combinations
Hexarelin + GHRH analog (sermorelin, CJC-1295 no-DAC, or tesamorelin): The classical GHS × GHRH synergy amplifies GH pulse amplitude 3-5x vs either alone (Bowers 1991). Combined with hexarelin's already higher per-molecule potency, this stack produces the largest GH pulses of any common peptide combination. Reserved for short (4-6 week) intensive phases.
Hexarelin + BPC-157 + TB-500: Standard peptide-enhanced recovery stack for aggressive training intensification. Hexarelin drives systemic anabolism; BPC-157 supports connective tissue; TB-500 accelerates soft tissue remodeling. Non-interfering mechanisms.
Hexarelin + Testosterone replacement (in hypogonadal men): Additive anabolic effects during short anabolic phases. Standard when both axes are clinically indicated.
Situational
Hexarelin + Carnosine / beta-alanine: No direct interaction; used together in performance-focused programs. Carnosine for muscle buffering, hexarelin for GH pulse.
Hexarelin + Creatine: No interaction. Complementary for short-duration power and hypertrophy goals.
Redundant (Avoid)
Hexarelin + GHRP-2, GHRP-6, or Ipamorelin: All GHS-R1a agonists — mechanistically redundant. If you want hexarelin's potency, dose it alone. If you want less HPA effect, switch to ipamorelin rather than layering.
Hexarelin + MK-677: Both GHS-R1a agonists. MK-677 provides 24-hour receptor occupancy; adding short-pulse hexarelin produces diminishing returns and stacks the cortisol effects.
Avoid or Contraindicated
Hexarelin + Glucocorticoids (prednisone, dexamethasone): Additive HPA axis load; pharmacodynamic interference with GH response.
Hexarelin + Exogenous HGH: Pharmacologically counterproductive — exogenous GH suppresses endogenous pituitary output via IGF-1 negative feedback.
Hexarelin + High-dose stimulants (aggressive pre-workouts with yohimbine/DMHA/high caffeine): Additive sympathomimetic and HPA load, particularly problematic given hexarelin's cortisol profile.
Hexarelin + GLP-1 agonists during active weight loss phases: Opposing appetite signals; defeats the purpose of both.
Hexarelin + MAO inhibitors or other psychiatric drugs with cortisol-sensitive interactions: Theoretical concern; specialist oversight needed.
Related Compound Pages
- GHRP-2 — Similar hexapeptide with less HPA cross-reactivity
- GHRP-6 — Similar with stronger appetite effect
- Ipamorelin — Cleanest GHS-R1a agonist; preferred for chronic use
- CJC-1295 — GHRH synergy partner
- Sermorelin — Pulsatile GHRH synergy partner
- Tesamorelin — FDA-approved GHRH analog
- MK-677 — Oral long-acting GHS alternative
- BPC-157 — Tissue repair stack partner
- TB-500 — Soft tissue remodeling stack partner
- NAD+ — Mitochondrial longevity support
Side Effects & Safety
Contraindications
Hexarelin is contraindicated or requires strict caution in: - **Active malignancy** — particularly hormone-responsive cancers; IGF-1 elevation theoretical risk - **Strong family history of GH-axis sensitive cancers** — specialist supervision required - **Pregnancy and lactation** — no established safety data - **Known hypersensitivity** to hexarelin or related hexapeptides - **Severe untreated obstructive sleep apnea** — stabilize with CPAP first - **Acute critical illness** — GH-axis stimulation inappropriate during sepsis, post-surgical recovery, multiple trauma, respiratory failure - **Diabetic ketoacidosis or severe uncontrolled diabetes** — resolve metabolic state first - **Active proliferative retinopathy** — relative contraindication - **Hypothalamic-pituitary disease with untreated adrenal insufficiency** — hexarelin's HPA effects may be unreliable in this context - **Active Cushing's syndrome or elevated baseline cortisol** — hexarelin adds meaningfully to HPA load - **Prolactinoma or clinically significant hyperprolactinemia** — hexarelin's prolactin elevation could complicate management - **Active anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or acute stress reaction** — HPA axis effects can worsen symptoms **Relative cautions specific to hexarelin:** - Borderline glucose / HbA1c — insulin sensitivity effects appear faster with hexarelin than with cleaner GHS compounds - Mood instability, depression, or insomnia — the HPA axis effects may contribute to worsening - Cardiovascular disease (despite preclinical CD36 data) — the acute blood pressure and cortisol effects are not neutral in this population; clinical cardiac use has not been validated - Concurrent glucocorticoid therapy — pharmacodynamic interference; additive HPA load - Strong family history of colon polyps — baseline colonoscopy before GH-axis intervention - Users who have had previous difficulty tolerating GHS compounds — hexarelin is the most HPA-affecting; ipamorelin is much cleaner **Drug interactions:** - **Glucocorticoids:** Reduced GH response; additive HPA load - **Stimulants (high caffeine, pre-workouts):** Additive sympathomimetic and HPA load - **MAO inhibitors:** Theoretical interaction; specialist oversight - **GLP-1 agonists during weight loss phase:** Opposing appetite signals - **Thyroid hormones:** GH-axis effects can alter thyroid needs - **Exogenous HGH:** Pharmacologically counterproductive **Discontinuation triggers:** - Cortisol elevation >30% above baseline at follow-up labs - ACTH elevation beyond reference range - Prolactin elevation beyond reference range - New or worsened anxiety, insomnia, or mood changes - Fasting glucose persistently >110 mg/dL - Central (abdominal) weight gain beyond caloric intake explanation — suggesting cortisol-driven body composition change - Persistent joint pain or peripheral edema - Worsening sleep apnea - Any cardiovascular symptoms
Additional Notes
Standard Dosing Reference
| User Tier | Per Injection | Frequency | Cycle Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 100 mcg | 1-2x/day | 4 weeks on / 4 weeks off |
| Intermediate | 150-200 mcg | 2x/day | 4-6 weeks on / 2-4 weeks off |
| Advanced | 200 mcg | 2-3x/day | 4-6 weeks on / 2-4 weeks off |
| Diagnostic IV | 1-2 mcg/kg | Single bolus | — |
Key Rules for Hexarelin Specifically
- Cycle shorter than other GHRPs — 4-6 weeks on, not 12+ weeks, due to receptor desensitization
- Monitor cortisol and prolactin — essential given higher HPA cross-reactivity
- Fasted dosing — 2-3 hours after last meal
- Subcutaneous route for therapy — IV reserved for diagnostic testing
- Single-injection ceiling: ~200 mcg — above this, cortisol rises faster than GH
- Do not use continuously for more than 8 weeks
Concentration and Volume
Standard 5 mg vial + 2 mL BAC water = 2.5 mg/mL:
- 100 mcg = 0.04 mL = 4 units on U-100 insulin syringe
- 150 mcg = 0.06 mL = 6 units
- 200 mcg = 0.08 mL = 8 units
Monitoring
Baseline (essential):
- IGF-1
- Fasting insulin, fasting glucose, HbA1c
- AM cortisol
- Prolactin
- Comprehensive metabolic panel
Week 4 (end of first cycle):
- IGF-1 (confirm response)
- Fasting glucose
- AM cortisol (HPA axis status)
- Prolactin (if elevated at baseline)
Week 6 (if extended cycle):
- Full panel including cortisol, prolactin
- Consider ACTH if cortisol has risen significantly
Target IGF-1: Upper quartile of age-adjusted reference range.
If cortisol has risen >30% above baseline: Discontinue and take a 4-6 week washout before any further GHS use. Consider transitioning to ipamorelin for future GH support.
When Not to Dose
- Within 2-3 hours of a meal
- During acute illness with fever
- If fasting glucose persistently >110 mg/dL
- If active HPA axis investigation is underway
- If current cortisol or prolactin are elevated
- During periods of significant stress, sleep deprivation, or anxiety exacerbation
Storage
- Lyophilized: refrigerated 2-8°C, sealed, stable 2 years
- Reconstituted: refrigerated 2-8°C, use within 30 days
- Never freeze
- Protect from light
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended Hexarelin dosage?
The typical dose range for Hexarelin is 100–200 mcg per injection. It is usually administered 1–2 times daily; subject to desensitization within 4 weeks. Always start with the lowest effective dose.
How often should I take Hexarelin?
1–2 times daily; subject to desensitization within 4 weeks
Does Hexarelin need to be cycled?
Yes, typical cycle length is 4–8 weeks (desensitization limits longer use).
What are Hexarelin side effects?
## Common - **Facial flushing and warmth** — More pronounced than other GHRPs due to potency. Fades within 15-30 minutes. - **Injection site reactions** — Mild erythema, occasional stinging at SC site. Site rotation minimizes. - **Cortisol elevation** (+30-50% above baseline) — Transient, peaks 60-90 min post-injection, resolves by 3-4 hours. In healthy users with normal HPA function, typically clinically inconsequential per single dose; cumulative chronic exposure matters more. - **Prolactin elevation** — Usually modest but more pronounced than with GHRP-2 or ipamorelin. Relevant in users with prolactin-sensitive conditions. - **Appetite stimulation** — Intermediate; noticeable but less pronounced than GHRP-6. - **Vivid dreams** — Common with bedtime dosing. ## Less Common - **Headache** — More frequent than with other GHRPs, particularly in first week. - **Mild nausea** — More common with higher doses or IV administration. - **Transient hypotension** — Primarily with rapid IV bolus; SC route rarely produces meaningful BP changes. - **Fluid retention** — Mild, most pronounced in first 2-3 weeks of daily use. - **Insulin sensitivity reduction** — Measurable with chronic dosing; monitor HbA1c and fasting insulin. - **Paresthesia / scalp tingling** — Transient, benign. ## HPA Axis Effects (The Hexarelin Signature) - **ACTH elevation** — Meaningful and measurable, unlike GHRP-2/GHRP-6 where ACTH effects are negligible - **Cumulative cortisol exposure** with chronic daily dosing could theoretically contribute to HPA dysregulation over months - **Patients with anxiety, cortisol-sensitive mood disorders, or adrenal insufficiency are poor candidates** for hexarelin specifically (vs other GHRPs) ## Faster Receptor Desensitization - **GH response attenuation** within 4-8 weeks of continuous daily dosing - Dose escalation to overcome attenuation increases cortisol and prolactin exposure disproportionately - Shorter cycling (4-6 weeks on / 2-4 weeks off) is standard for this compound specifically ## Rare but Notable - **Significant hypotension** — primarily with IV; rare with SC - **Hypersensitivity reactions** — rare local or systemic - **Persistent insulin resistance** — with prolonged high-dose use - **HPA axis blunting** — theoretical concern with long-term continuous dosing ## Long-term Theoretical Concerns As with all GH-axis interventions, sustained IGF-1 elevation raises theoretical concerns around chronic mitogenic signaling and cancer risk. Hexarelin's HPA axis effects add an additional concern — chronic low-grade cortisol elevation has independent metabolic consequences (visceral fat accumulation, insulin resistance, immune suppression) that compound over long timescales. Short-cycle use minimizes this risk significantly. ## Signs You Are Overdosing or Need to Stop - Persistent joint pain, peripheral edema, or carpal tunnel symptoms (IGF-1 too high) - Fasting glucose persistently >110 mg/dL - Mood changes, insomnia, or anxiety (HPA axis effects) - Central weight gain or Cushing-like body composition changes - Persistent elevated resting heart rate - Worsening sleep apnea - Any cardiovascular symptoms
Where can I buy Hexarelin?
Visit our vendor directory to find trusted sources for Hexarelin.
Free 2026 Peptide Cheat Sheet — 50 pages, PDF
Dosing, reconstitution, stacks, half-lives, and vendor trust tiers. The reference we wish we had on day one.