Hexarelin vs LL-37 (Cathelicidin)

Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.

HexarelinLL-37 (Cathelicidin)
CategoryPeptidesPeptides
Standard DoseResearch indicates 100-200 mcg administered 1-2 times daily via subcutaneous injection.Research indicates 50-100 mcg daily via subcutaneous injection for immune support.
TimingOn empty stomach, bedtime preferred. Avoid prolonged continuous use due to rapid desensitization.Morning administration preferred for immune support. Topical application directly to wound sites.
Cycle Duration4-8 week cycles maximum, then 4+ week break. Hexarelin desensitizes faster than other GHRPs.4-8 week cycles. Short-term use preferred due to limited long-term safety data.
Evidence Levelmoderate_humananimal_plus_anecdotal
A

Hexarelin

Peptides

Mechanism

Hexarelin (Examorelin) is a synthetic hexapeptide GHS-R1a agonist and the most potent synthetic GH secretagogue by peak GH release. It stimulates GH release through both pituitary ghrelin receptors and hypothalamic pathways, with mechanisms involving regulation of GHRH and somatostatin. Hexarelin also demonstrates significant cardiac benefits through activation of cardiac GHS-R1a receptors, protecting against ischemia-reperfusion injury and reducing cardiac fibrosis via the CD36 scavenger receptor pathway.

Standard Dosing

Research indicates 100-200 mcg administered 1-2 times daily via subcutaneous injection.

Timing

On empty stomach, bedtime preferred. Avoid prolonged continuous use due to rapid desensitization.

Cycle Duration

4-8 week cycles maximum, then 4+ week break. Hexarelin desensitizes faster than other GHRPs.

Side Effects

  • Significant cortisol elevation
  • Prolactin increase
  • Water retention
  • Joint pain
  • Rapid desensitization (unique to Hexarelin)

Contraindications

  • Active cancer
  • Cardiac arrhythmias (due to direct cardiac receptor activity)
  • Cushing's syndrome
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Best Stacking Partners

CJC-1295 (no DAC)Sermorelin

Mechanism

LL-37 is a 37-residue amphipathic helical antimicrobial peptide, the only human cathelicidin, that kills bacteria by forming tetrameric channels that perforate cytoplasmic membranes. Beyond direct antimicrobial activity, it modulates innate immunity through formyl-peptide receptor 2 (FPR2), induces chemotaxis of neutrophils and monocytes, upregulates CXCR4 and IL-8, and neutralizes bacterial endotoxins (LPS). It also promotes wound healing through keratinocyte migration and angiogenesis.

Standard Dosing

Research indicates 50-100 mcg daily via subcutaneous injection for immune support.

Timing

Morning administration preferred for immune support. Topical application directly to wound sites.

Cycle Duration

4-8 week cycles. Short-term use preferred due to limited long-term safety data.

Side Effects

  • Injection site pain and redness
  • Localized inflammation
  • Potential mast cell activation

Contraindications

  • Active autoimmune conditions (particularly lupus — LL-37 is implicated in SLE pathophysiology)
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Psoriasis (may exacerbate)

Best Stacking Partners

KPVThymosin Alpha-1BPC-157

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