Compare Peptides
Select any two compounds for a side-by-side comparison of mechanism, uses, risks, and FDA regulatory status.
Popular comparisons
Hexarelin
Examorelin, His-D-2-MeTrp-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.
A synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue and one of the most potent GH-releasing peptides known. Stimulates GH release more strongly than most other GHS peptides, but also has significant effects on cortisol and prolactin.
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 strong GH release. Also has direct cardioprotective effects independent of GH, including protection against ischemia-reperfusion injury. Activates the CD36 receptor in cardiac tissue.
- Muscle mass enhancement
- Strength improvement
- Muscular dystrophy research
- Recovery from muscle-wasting conditions
- Growth hormone optimization
- Muscle mass and strength
- Fat loss
- Cardiac protection (emerging research)
- Recovery from injury
- 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 cortisol and prolactin elevation (more than Ipamorelin)
- Water retention
- Increased appetite
- Desensitization with prolonged use
- 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.
This comparison is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide therapy.