ACE-031 vs GHRP-2
A neutral, side-by-side comparison of two performance & growth hormone peptides — their mechanisms, dosing ranges, administration routes, side effects, and research evidence. For research and educational purposes only.
ACE-031
Soluble form of activin type IIB receptor (ActRIIB-Fc fusion protein) that acts as a myostatin and activin trap. Blocks the primary signals that limit muscle growth by sequestering myostatin, activin, and related ligands before they reach cell surface receptors. Phase 2 trials in Duchenne muscular dystrophy demonstrated significant lean mass increases.
Full profileGHRP-2
GHRP-2 is a synthetic hexapeptide that acts as a ghrelin mimetic, stimulating the pituitary gland to secrete growth hormone (GH). It is one of the most potent GH secretagogues studied, producing stronger GH pulses than GHRP-6 with comparatively less appetite stimulation.
Full profile| ACE-031 | GHRP-2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Performance & Growth Hormone | Performance & Growth Hormone |
| Also known as | ACVR2B-Fc, ActRIIB-Fc fusion protein | Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2, Pralmorelin, KP 102 |
| Evidence | Investigational (in trials) | Preclinical only |
| Dosing range | 0.3mg/kg–3mg/kg mg/kg, every 2–4 weeks (subcutaneous injection) | 100mcg–300mcg mcg, 1–3 times daily, on an empty stomach |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection | Subcutaneous injection, Intramuscular injection |
| Key side effects | Nosebleeds (epistaxis — most common reported AE), Telangiectasia (visible small blood vessel dilation), Gum bleeding, Elevated hemoglobin | Increased hunger (less than GHRP-6), Elevated cortisol and prolactin at high doses, Water retention, Injection site irritation |
| Cited sources | 2 references | 3 references |
Key differences
- Evidence level differs: ACE-031 is investigational (in trials), while GHRP-2 is preclinical only.
- Administration: ACE-031 — Subcutaneous injection; GHRP-2 — Subcutaneous injection, Intramuscular injection.
- Dosing units differ: ACE-031 is dosed in mg/kg, GHRP-2 in mcg — they operate at different scales.
- Frequency: ACE-031 is typically every 2–4 weeks (subcutaneous injection); GHRP-2 is 1–3 times daily, on an empty stomach.
- Research depth: this profile cites 2 sources for ACE-031 vs 3 for GHRP-2.
How each works
ACE-031
ACE-031 functions as a decoy receptor, binding myostatin, activin A/B, GDF-11, and BMP-9 in circulation before they can activate cellular ActRIIB receptors. In the Duchenne muscular dystrophy Phase 2 trial, ACE-031 produced meaningful lean body mass increases but was halted due to vascular side effects (epistaxis, telangiectasia) requiring dose and safety optimization.
GHRP-2
GHRP-2 has been extensively studied in both animal and human subjects. Clinical trials have demonstrated significant GH elevation in healthy adults, with a peak GH pulse occurring 15–30 minutes post-injection. Studies show it increases IGF-1 levels with chronic use and may have mild cardioprotective properties. Unlike GHRP-6, it has a lower propensity to stimulate cortisol and prolactin at standard doses.
This comparison aggregates public research and structured profile data for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not recommend either compound for human use. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before considering any peptide.