IGF-1 LR3
Preclinical ResearchInsulin-like Growth Factor-1 Long R3
A long-acting analog of insulin-like growth factor 1. Researched for muscle growth, fat loss, and anabolic effects independent of growth hormone.
Dose
20mcg - 100mcg
Route
SubQ injection, Intramuscular
Cycle
4-8 weeks
Storage
Refrigerated (2-8°C / 35-46°F) protected from light
What is IGF-1 LR3?
IGF-1 LR3 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Long R3) is a modified, longer-acting analog of human IGF-1. Its primary modification is the substitution of an Arginine for a Glutamic Acid at position 3 (Arg3) and a 13 amino acid extension at the N-terminus. These modifications significantly reduce its binding affinity to Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Proteins (IGFBPs), allowing it to have a much longer half-life (approximately 20-30 hours) and greater bioavailability compared to native IGF-1. In research contexts, IGF-1 LR3 is studied for its potent anabolic and anti-catabolic properties, promoting cell proliferation (hyperplasia) and differentiation, particularly in muscle tissue. It is also explored for its potential role in fat metabolism, tissue repair, and overall body composition enhancement, largely independent of direct growth hormone stimulation.
Key Benefits
- Muscle cell proliferation
- Fat reduction
- Improved recovery
- Anabolic effects independent of GH
- Satellite cell activation
Mechanism of Action
- Binds IGF-1 receptors
- Promotes muscle cell proliferation (hyperplasia)
- Activates satellite cells for muscle repair
- Reduces muscle protein breakdown
Best For
- Advanced body composition research
- Muscle growth research
Body Systems
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Molecular Information
Molecular weight
9200.7 Daltons
Length
83 amino acids
Type
Peptide Hormone
Amino acid sequence
MFPAMCLLFRRKCSSLRRALLLTQQFPCQPVKPVSTLSQPFNCDLKFLLQDSRIGHILEEEMTLSDYPVKNFKP
IGF-1 LR3 is a modified analog of human IGF-1. It contains the full human IGF-1 sequence with a 13 amino acid extension at the N-terminus (Met-Phe-Pro-Ala-Met-Cys-Leu-Leu-Phe-Arg-Arg-Lys-Cys-) and the substitution of an Arginine (R) for a Glutamic Acid (E) at position 3, making it resistant to binding proteins and increasing its half-life.
Pharmacokinetics
Half-life
20 h
Research literature often cites a significantly extended half-life compared to native IGF-1, attributed to reduced binding to IGFBPs.
Research Indications
Muscle Cell Proliferation
Research indicates IGF-1 LR3 promotes muscle satellite cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation, leading to an increase in the number of muscle fibers (hyperplasia).
Anabolic Effects
It stimulates protein synthesis and reduces protein degradation, contributing to increased muscle mass and strength independent of direct growth hormone stimulation.
Improved Recovery
Accelerates tissue repair and recovery after strenuous exercise by enhancing cellular regeneration.
Research Protocols
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Anabolic Effects / Muscle Growth | 40-60mcg | Once daily, 5-7 days per week | Subcutaneous |
| Targeted Muscle Growth (Localized Effects) | 20-50mcg per muscle group | Once daily post-workout on training days (3-5 days per week) | Intramuscular |
| Enhanced Recovery and Fat Loss | 20-40mcg | Once daily, 5-7 days per week | Subcutaneous |
| Higher Dose for Advanced Research | 80-100mcg | Once daily, 5-7 days per week or every other day | Subcutaneous or Intramuscular |
| Off-season / Bulking Support | 50-70mcg | Once daily, 5-7 days per week | Subcutaneous |
Due to its extended half-life, daily administration is common, but some research protocols discuss administration every other day, particularly with higher doses. Post-workout administration is often favored to potentially maximize localized effects in muscle tissue.
Peptide Interactions
- Use Caution
Insulin
IGF-1 LR3 possesses insulin-like properties and can lower blood glucose. Co-administration with exogenous insulin may potentiate hypoglycemic effects, requiring careful monitoring and potential dose adjustments of insulin.
- Synergistic
Growth Hormone (GH)
GH stimulates endogenous IGF-1 production. Administering exogenous IGF-1 LR3 in conjunction with GH is discussed in research for potentially synergistic anabolic effects, though this requires careful monitoring of growth factors.
- Monitor Combination
Thyroid Hormones (T3/T4)
Thyroid hormones are crucial for metabolism. While not a direct interaction, maintaining optimal thyroid function is important when researching compounds that affect metabolic pathways, including IGF-1 LR3. No direct contraindication, but overall metabolic balance should be considered.
- Use Caution
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids can have catabolic effects and may counteract some of the anabolic benefits of IGF-1 LR3. Researchers would monitor for attenuated effects if co-administered.
- Use Caution
Hypoglycemic Agents (Oral)
Similar to insulin, co-administration with oral medications intended to lower blood glucose may increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Close monitoring of blood glucose levels is advised.
- Synergistic
Peptides stimulating GH (e.g., GHRPs, GHRH analogs)
Combining IGF-1 LR3 with peptides that stimulate natural GH release is commonly discussed in research for a multifaceted approach to anabolism and growth factor optimization.
How to Reconstitute
- 1Gather IGF-1 LR3 vial, bacteriostatic water, and sterile syringes.
- 2Carefully remove the protective cap from the IGF-1 LR3 vial and wipe the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab.
- 3Draw the desired amount of bacteriostatic water into a sterile syringe. Common reconstitution ratios range from 1ml to 2ml per 1mg of peptide.
- 4Slowly inject the bacteriostatic water into the IGF-1 LR3 vial, directing it against the side of the vial to avoid direct contact with the lyophilized powder.
- 5Gently swirl the vial (do not shake) to allow the peptide to dissolve completely. This may take several minutes.
- 6Once fully dissolved, store the reconstituted solution in the refrigerator (2-8°C / 35-46°F).
Bacteriostatic water is commonly used for reconstitution to maintain sterility for multi-dose vials. Gently swirling, not shaking, is critical to preserve peptide integrity.
What to Expect
- Weeks 1-2: Some researchers report initial feelings of increased recovery and mild improvements in muscle fullness.
- Weeks 2-4: More noticeable improvements in muscle recovery, slight increases in lean mass, and potential reduction in body fat may be observed.
- Weeks 4-6: Enhanced muscle growth, strength, and improvements in body composition are commonly discussed.
- Weeks 6-8: Continued and more pronounced anabolic effects, including muscle hyperplasia and fat loss, are often noted.
- Throughout: Potential for enhanced nutrient partitioning and improved overall workout performance.
Side Effects & Safety
| Effect | Frequency | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Hypoglycemia risk | Common | Moderate - serious if severe |
| Water retention | Common | Mild |
| Jaw/organ growth with chronic high doses | Rare | Serious |
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Open CalculatorPeptides discussed here are for research purposes only. Nothing on this page is medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making health decisions.