Compounded (503A/503B)

Hexarelin Dosage Chart

Short-cycle protocol designed around receptor desensitization, with cortisol and prolactin caveats that distinguish hexarelin from ipamorelin.

Written by
Megan Williams
Editor-in-Chief
Reviewed by
Brian Williams
Co-founder & Research Editor
Last updated
April 25, 2026

Educational tool — not medical advice. This calculator provides estimates based on population averages and published trial data. Outputs are not clinical recommendations and do not replace evaluation by a qualified prescriber. Do not start, stop, or change a peptide therapy based on the result of this tool.

Hexarelin is a potent ghrelin-receptor agonist with one of the strongest single-pulse GH releases among the GH secretagogues. Its potency comes with a cost: cortisol and prolactin elevation at higher doses, and rapid receptor desensitization. Cycles are typically short and well-spaced.

Hexarelin at a Glance

Typical dose100 mcg subQ
Frequency1–2× per day
Cycle length4 weeks on, 4 weeks off (short cycles to manage desensitization)
Typical max200–300 mcg/day
FDA statusNot FDA-approved. Compounded.
Source qualitySmall clinical trials in cardiac patients (1990s); off-label use is practitioner-derived.

Hexarelin Reconstitution Chart

How vial size, bacteriostatic water volume, and insulin-syringe units convert for Hexarelin. Use this to translate a prescribed mcg or mg dose into a syringe measurement.

Vial sizeBac waterConcentrationDose → insulin-syringe units (U-100)
5 mg2.5 mL2 mg/mL (200 mcg per 0.1 mL)
  • 100 mcg5 units
  • 200 mcg10 units

Hexarelin Dosing by Use Case

Commonly cited protocols vary by what Hexarelin is being used for. The table below summarizes typical ranges reported in clinical practice and published literature.

Use caseTypical doseFrequencyCycle lengthNotes
GH stimulation (high potency, short cycle)100 mcg1–2× daily4 weeks on, 4 weeks offReceptor desensitization develops with continuous use; short cycles preserve responsiveness.

Stacking Hexarelin

Hexarelin is rarely stacked because of its potency and cortisol/prolactin profile — most modern protocols prefer ipamorelin for cleaner GH release. If used, it's typically alone or briefly paired with a GHRH analog.

Use with caution

Hexarelin is the most potent ghrelin-receptor secretagogue but elevates cortisol and prolactin and produces rapid receptor desensitization — most clinicians have moved to ipamorelin.

  • Cortisol and prolactin elevation at higher doses — hexarelin is less selective than ipamorelin.
  • Receptor desensitization develops within weeks of continuous use; cycles are short for this reason.
  • Reported side effects: water retention, transient blood pressure changes, joint pain.
  • Not FDA-approved.
Do not use if
  • Active or recent malignancy
  • Untreated hyperprolactinemia
  • Cushing's syndrome or other cortisol disorders
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding

Hexarelin Dosing FAQ

Most clinicians have moved to ipamorelin for ongoing protocols. Hexarelin still appears in short-cycle, high-potency contexts where its larger single-pulse GH release is the goal. For continuous or maintenance protocols, ipamorelin is the better choice.

Typically 4 weeks before a 4-week break. Receptor desensitization makes longer continuous cycles inefficient.

Sources

Related Dosage Charts

Want the full Hexarelin guide?

Mechanism, clinical evidence, side effects, costs, and provider listings for Hexarelin therapy.

See Hexarelin guide

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any peptide therapy treatment.