Compare Peptides
Select any two compounds for a side-by-side comparison of mechanism, uses, risks, and FDA regulatory status.
Popular comparisons
GHRP-6
Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6, His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2
A naturally occurring glycoprotein that acts as a potent inhibitor of myostatin — the protein that limits muscle growth. Follistatin 344 is the most common isoform used in research contexts. Inhibiting myostatin theoretically removes the body's natural brake on muscle development.
One of the original synthetic growth hormone secretagogues, developed in the 1980s. A hexapeptide that strongly stimulates GH release through ghrelin receptor activation. Historically significant as the compound that led to the discovery of the ghrelin receptor and the development of the entire GHS drug class.
Binds to and neutralizes myostatin (GDF-8) and activin, preventing them from signaling through the ActRIIB receptor. This removes the inhibitory signal on muscle satellite cells, allowing greater muscle fiber growth and regeneration. Also affects bone density and fat metabolism through activin pathway modulation.
Binds to ghrelin receptors (GHS-R1a) in the pituitary and hypothalamus, triggering pulsatile GH release. Also stimulates appetite significantly through central ghrelin receptor activation — more so than most other GHS peptides. Increases IGF-1 levels downstream of GH release.
- Muscle mass enhancement
- Strength improvement
- Muscular dystrophy research
- Recovery from muscle-wasting conditions
- Growth hormone optimization
- Muscle recovery and growth
- Fat loss
- Appetite stimulation (useful in wasting conditions)
- Anti-aging protocols
- Very limited human clinical data
- Potential for uncontrolled muscle growth
- Tendon and connective tissue may not keep pace with muscle growth
- Cardiovascular effects of myostatin inhibition not fully characterized
- Long-term safety completely unknown
- High potential for misuse in athletic contexts
- Significant appetite stimulation (can undermine fat loss goals)
- Cortisol and prolactin elevation
- Water retention
- Desensitization with frequent dosing
- Tingling and numbness
- Limited long-term human safety data
Not FDA-approved and not on any compounding list. Available as a research chemical. Myostatin inhibition is an active area of pharmaceutical research for muscular dystrophy — several drug candidates are in clinical trials, but follistatin itself has not advanced to approved drug status.
Reclassified to Category 1 in February 2026 as part of the HHS announcement restoring compounding access. Not affected by the April 15, 2026 Category 2 removal action. Available through licensed 503A compounding pharmacies with a physician prescription. Often used in combination with GHRH analogs like CJC-1295.
This comparison is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide therapy.