Examorelin

also known as: EP 23905, EP-51389, hexarelin analog (early)

An early synthetic GH-releasing hexapeptide (Europeptides) in the hexarelin family — never developed to approval, used principally as a research tool for characterizing the ghrelin receptor pathway.

An early synthetic hexapeptide ghrelin receptor agonist developed by Europeptides (now part of Mediolanum, Italy) in the 1990s as a tool compound and clinical candidate for characterizing the growth hormone secretagogue receptor. Closely related structurally and pharmacologically to hexarelin. Reported in small clinical studies of GH stimulation testing and GHD diagnosis. Never developed to regulatory approval; primarily of historical and tool-compound interest today.

Mechanism of action

Ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonism producing pulsatile GH release via the canonical somatotroph pathway, with the same class characteristics as hexarelin, GHRP-2, and GHRP-6.

Primary uses

Research: GH secretagogue receptor pharmacology
Historical: GH stimulation testing (small clinical series)

Typical dosing

Not established

No approved clinical dose; research use only.

Regulatory status

Not approved in any regulatory jurisdiction for any indication. Research-only use in GH pharmacology and endocrine testing literature.

References

[pubmed] Imbimbo BP, et al. "Growth hormone-releasing activity of hexarelin in humans. A dose-response study." Eur J Clin Pharmacol, 1994;46:421-425 (GHRP-family early clinical pharmacology).
[pubmed] Deghenghi R, et al. "GH-releasing activity of Hexarelin, a new growth hormone releasing peptide, in infant and adult rats." Life Sci, 1994;54:1321-1328.

Related peptides

Hexarelin

A high-potency GHRP studied for cardiac protection via a CD36-mediated pathway independent of GH release — but demonstrates clear tachyphylaxis with chronic use.

GHRP-2

A second-generation GHRP approved as a diagnostic agent in Japan, with more pronounced GH-releasing potency than GHRP-6 but a meaningful prolactin and cortisol rise at higher doses.

GHRP-6

The prototype GHRP — a hexapeptide ghrelin receptor agonist notable for pronounced hunger stimulation and less favorable cortisol/prolactin profile than newer GHRPs.

Ipamorelin

A selective ghrelin receptor agonist that stimulates GH release without the cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH spike seen with older GHRPs like GHRP-6.

Disclaimer

This entry is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dosing information reflects published regulatory or research data and is not a recommendation. Many compounds described here are not approved for human use in the United States. Consult a licensed medical professional before considering any peptide therapy.