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Peptides for Body Recomposition: Mechanism Comparison
This table compares the primary peptide classes used in body recomposition research based on mechanism, evidence quality, and practical application. Growth Hormone Secretagogues (GHRP-2, CJC-1295) Stimulate pulsatile GH release via ghrelin and GHRH receptors R
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- This table compares the primary peptide classes used in body recomposition research based on mechanism, evidence quality, and practical application.
- Growth Hormone Secretagogues (GHRP-2, CJC-1295)
- Stimulate pulsatile GH release via ghrelin and GHRH receptors
- Randomized controlled trials in JCEM showing 40–50% IGF-1 elevation
- Increased lipolysis, muscle preservation during deficit, improved nitrogen retention
- Administered subcutaneously before sleep to align with nocturnal GH peaks
- Gold standard for anti-catabolic effects during recomposition. Evidence quality is highest in this class
- MK-677 (Ibutamoren)
- Oral ghrelin mimetic elevating GH and IGF-1 with insulin-sensitizing effects
- Phase II trials showing 1.1 kg lean mass gain and 8.7% visceral fat reduction over 12 weeks
- Improved nutrient partitioning, visceral fat reduction, increased basal metabolic rate
- 25 mg orally before sleep; easier administration than injectable GHS but longer half-life
- Best option for those avoiding injections. Visceral fat reduction indicates genuine insulin sensitivity improvement
- Hexarelin
- GH secretagogue with direct CD36 receptor binding on muscle mitochondria
- European Journal of Endocrinology showing 23% increase in mitochondrial oxygen consumption
- Dual mechanism: GH-mediated lipolysis plus direct mitochondrial activation
- Subcutaneous injection; typically used in research settings for metabolic studies
- Unique mitochondrial effect beyond GH alone. Underutilized in commercial protocols
- Insulin Sensitizers (Metformin, Berberine)
- AMPK activation shifting cells from storage to oxidation mode
- Meta-analyses showing 2–3 kg fat loss over 6 months with unchanged lean mass
- Improved glucose disposal, reduced de novo lipogenesis, enhanced fat oxidation
- Metformin 500–1000 mg daily; berberine 500 mg 2–3x daily with meals
- Not peptides but synergistic with GH protocols. Addresses insulin resistance that undermines nutrient partitioning
- Mitochondrial Modulators (Cerebrolysin)
- BDNF elevation improving hypothalamic leptin sensitivity
- Neurological research models; metabolic effects are secondary observations
- Potential improvement in satiety signaling and energy expenditure regulation
- Intramuscular or intravenous in research settings; not widely available
- Mechanistically interesting but evidence base for body recomposition is preliminary