Source comparison
Hexarelin vs Sermorelin: Side Effects, Risks, and Practical Considerations Comparison
Receptor Target GHS-R1a (ghrelin receptor) GHRH receptor Hexarelin bypasses natural feedback; sermorelin works within it Peak GH Elevation 20–40 ng/mL (30–60 min) 8–15 ng/mL (90–120 min) Hexarelin produces 2–3× higher acute spikes Desensitisation Risk High. Re
This comparison does not assign a generated winner or score.
- Receptor Target
- GHS-R1a (ghrelin receptor)
- GHRH receptor
- Hexarelin bypasses natural feedback; sermorelin works within it
- Peak GH Elevation
- 20–40 ng/mL (30–60 min)
- 8–15 ng/mL (90–120 min)
- Hexarelin produces 2–3× higher acute spikes
- Desensitisation Risk
- High. Receptor downregulation within 4–8 weeks of daily use
- Low. Pituitary responsiveness maintained for 6–12 months
- Sermorelin allows continuous use; hexarelin requires cycling
- Cortisol/Prolactin Spike
- Moderate (15–25% elevation)
- Minimal (≤5% elevation)
- Hexarelin stimulates ACTH; sermorelin does not
- Hunger Stimulation
- Pronounced (ghrelin receptor activation)
- None
- Hexarelin increases appetite 30–60 minutes post-dose
- Dosing Frequency
- 1–2× daily (100–200 mcg per dose)
- 1× daily, typically pre-sleep (200–500 mcg)
- Both subcutaneous; sermorelin better for nocturnal GH pulse amplification
- Long-Term Viability
- Requires 2–4 week washout periods every 6–8 weeks
- Sustainable for 6+ months continuously
- Sermorelin wins for extended protocols
- Regulatory Status
- Research peptide (not FDA-approved for human use)
- FDA-approved as Geref (discontinued), compounded versions widely available
- Both available through research suppliers; sermorelin has prescription pathway