Ipamorelin
Clinical TrialsIpamorelin
A selective GH secretagogue researched for GH release, with less activity at some off-target pathways than earlier GHRPs.
Dose
200-300 mcg
Route
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle
8-12 weeks
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from light. Refrigeration (2-8°C) is common.
What is Ipamorelin?
Ipamorelin is a synthetic peptide belonging to the class of growth hormone secretagogues (GHS). It acts as a selective agonist of the ghrelin/growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R), leading to the release of growth hormone (GH) from the anterior pituitary gland. Unlike some other GHS, Ipamorelin is noted for its high selectivity for GH release with minimal impact on other hormones such as cortisol, prolactin, and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), contributing to a favorable side-effect profile. Research protocols often investigate its role in promoting lean body mass, improving sleep quality, and supporting recovery processes by enhancing endogenous GH pulsatility.
Key Benefits
- Improved sleep quality
- Lean body composition
- Recovery support
Mechanism of Action
- Ghrelin receptor agonism
- Pulsatile GH release
Best For
- Sleep and recovery
- Body composition
Body Systems

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Molecular Information
Molecular weight
711.85 g/mol
Length
5 amino acids
Type
Peptide
Amino acid sequence
AIB-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2
AIB: alpha-aminoisobutyric acid; D-2-Nal: D-2-naphthylalanine
Pharmacokinetics
Time to peak
Approximately 20 minutes
Half-life
2 h
Time to clear
Approximately 4 hours
Research literature on growth hormone secretagogues
Research Indications
Stimulation of Endogenous GH Release
Ipamorelin functions as a highly selective agonist of the ghrelin receptor, leading to a robust, pulsatile release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland, without significantly affecting other pituitary hormones like cortisol or prolactin.
Research Protocols
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| General GH pulsatility and anti-aging research | 200 mcg | Once daily | Subcutaneous |
| Enhanced Recovery and Sleep | 200-300 mcg | Once daily, before bedtime | Subcutaneous |
| Body Composition Improvement (Lean Mass/Fat Loss) | 200-300 mcg | 2-3 times daily, spread throughout the day | Subcutaneous |
| Combination with GHRH peptide (e.g., CJC-1295 no DAC) | 100-200 mcg | 1-3 times daily (Ipamorelin) | Subcutaneous |
| Optimizing GH Release Post-Workout (research context) | 200 mcg | Once daily, immediately post-workout | Subcutaneous |
Research suggests that administering Ipamorelin before bed may capitalize on the body's natural nocturnal GH pulse. Dosing multiple times a day may aim to maintain elevated GH levels, though the exact optimal frequency is a subject of ongoing research.
Peptide Interactions
- Synergistic
CJC-1295 (without DAC)
CJC-1295 (without DAC) is a GHRH analog that stimulates the production and release of GH. When combined with Ipamorelin (a GHS-R agonist), a synergistic effect is observed, leading to a more pronounced and sustained pulsatile GH release, often referred to as a 'GH stack' in research contexts.
- Monitor Combination
Macromorelin (MK-677)
Macromorelin is an oral GHS that has a significantly longer half-life. While both stimulate GH, combining them may lead to excessive GH and IGF-1 levels. Research protocols are scarce on this combination, and caution is advised due to the potential for compounding side effects associated with chronically elevated GH.
- Use Caution
Exogenous Growth Hormone (hGH)
Combining Ipamorelin with exogenous hGH could lead to supraphysiological levels of GH, which may increase the risk of side effects such as insulin resistance, carpal tunnel syndrome, and acromegaly-like symptoms. This combination is generally not explored in protocols aiming for physiological GH regulation.
- Avoid
Somatostatin (Growth Hormone-Inhibiting Hormone)
Somatostatin naturally inhibits GH release. Any compound that significantly increases somatostatin levels or acts as a somatostatin analog would counteract the effects of Ipamorelin, making the combination counterproductive.
- Use Caution
Glucocorticoids (e.g., Dexamethasone)
Glucocorticoids can suppress GH secretion and blunt the response to GHRH and GHS. Concurrent use might diminish the efficacy of Ipamorelin. Research suggests a need for careful monitoring if these compounds are co-administered.
- Monitor Combination
Insulin
GH can have an anti-insulin effect, potentially increasing blood glucose. While Ipamorelin is noted for its clean profile, individuals using insulin (especially diabetics) should monitor blood glucose levels closely if Ipamorelin is part of a research protocol, as GH elevation could impact insulin sensitivity.
How to Reconstitute
- 1Gather necessary supplies: Ipamorelin vial, bacteriostatic water, sterile syringe, and alcohol wipes.
- 2Remove the protective cap from the Ipamorelin vial and wipe the rubber stopper with an alcohol wipe.
- 3Draw the desired amount of bacteriostatic water into the syringe. A common ratio is 1ml (100 units on an insulin syringe) of water per 2mg of peptide, but this can vary.
- 4Slowly inject the bacteriostatic water into the Ipamorelin vial, aiming the needle towards the side of the vial to allow the water to run down gently, avoiding direct injection onto the lyophilized powder.
- 5Do not shake the vial. Gently swirl the vial between your fingers until the powder is fully dissolved. This may take several minutes.
- 6Once dissolved, the solution should be clear. Store the reconstituted solution in the refrigerator.
Bacteriostatic water is commonly discussed for reconstitution to ensure sterility and extend shelf life.
What to Expect
- Weeks 1-2: Some individuals may report improved sleep quality and a general sense of well-being.
- Weeks 2-4: Early signs of improved recovery from physical activity may be observed. Appetite changes might also be noted due to ghrelin receptor activation.
- Weeks 4-8: More consistent improvements in recovery and potentially subtle changes in body composition (e.g., slight reductions in body fat, increased lean mass) may become apparent.
- Weeks 8-12: The most significant changes in body composition, including enhanced lean muscle development and fat loss, are typically observed during this period, assuming consistent protocol adherence.
- Post-cycle: Maintenance of benefits often requires continued healthy lifestyle choices, as the peptide primarily stimulates endogenous GH release rather than exogenously supplying it.
Side Effects & Safety
| Effect | Frequency | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Mild head rush | Occasional | Mild |
| Water retention | Rare | Mild |
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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.