Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.
| Hexarelin | Melanotan II | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Peptides | Peptides |
| Standard Dose | Research indicates 100-200 mcg administered 1-2 times daily via subcutaneous injection. | Research indicates 250-500 mcg daily via subcutaneous injection during loading, reducing to 250 mcg 2-3 times weekly for maintenance. |
| Timing | On empty stomach, bedtime preferred. Avoid prolonged continuous use due to rapid desensitization. | Administer 4-6 hours before UV exposure for optimal tanning synergy. Can be taken at any time of day. |
| Cycle Duration | 4-8 week cycles maximum, then 4+ week break. Hexarelin desensitizes faster than other GHRPs. | Loading phase 1-2 weeks, then maintenance as long as desired. Pigmentation fades gradually upon discontinuation. |
| Evidence Level | moderate_human | moderate_human |
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.
Research indicates 100-200 mcg administered 1-2 times daily via subcutaneous injection.
On empty stomach, bedtime preferred. Avoid prolonged continuous use due to rapid desensitization.
4-8 week cycles maximum, then 4+ week break. Hexarelin desensitizes faster than other GHRPs.
Melanotan II is a synthetic cyclic analog of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) that non-selectively agonizes melanocortin receptors MC1, MC3, MC4, and MC5. MC1R activation stimulates eumelanin synthesis through tyrosinase upregulation, producing tanning. MC3R activation in the CNS increases libido and produces erectile responses. MC4R activation suppresses appetite. The cyclic structure provides enhanced in vivo stability (half-life 1-2 hours) and increased blood-brain barrier permeability compared to linear alpha-MSH.
Research indicates 250-500 mcg daily via subcutaneous injection during loading, reducing to 250 mcg 2-3 times weekly for maintenance.
Administer 4-6 hours before UV exposure for optimal tanning synergy. Can be taken at any time of day.
Loading phase 1-2 weeks, then maintenance as long as desired. Pigmentation fades gradually upon discontinuation.
Take our free assessment to get personalized recommendations based on your health goals, current stack, and biomarkers.
Get Your Free Protocol →or take the assessment →