Ipamorelin
Molecular Identifiers
Overview
Third-generation GH secretagogue with a highly selective profile. Synthetic pentapeptide (Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2) that acts as a selective agonist of the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a). Does not significantly elevate cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH.
The main clinical interest around Ipamorelin is stimulating physiological pituitary GH secretion without the hormonal side effects of earlier GHRPs: it does not significantly elevate cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH. This selective profile translates into improvements in body composition, sleep quality, tissue recovery, and general well-being, while preserving the endogenous pulsatile GH pattern. It is usually combined with a GHRH analog (CJC-1295 or Mod GRF 1-29) for a synergistic effect.
Ipamorelin currently has no regulatory approval from any agency (FDA, EMA, ANVISA). It is most often dispensed by compounding pharmacies as off-label use, in 8-12 week cycles with subcutaneous administration in the morning, post-workout, and before bed. It is considered the GHRP with the best safety profile available. WADA lists all GH secretagogues, including Ipamorelin, as substances prohibited at all times for competitive athletes.
Among GHRPs, Ipamorelin is the most selective: it does not raise cortisol, prolactin, or appetite — the opposite of GHRP-6 (strong hunger stimulus), GHRP-2 (moderate cortisol/prolactin rise), and hexarelin (more potent but with desensitization and hormonal impact). Unlike GHRH analogs (sermorelin, CJC-1295, tesamorelin) it acts on the GHS-R1a receptor and is therefore typically stacked with one of them for GHRH+GHRP synergy; oral MK-677 is the long-acting alternative on the same axis, at the cost of more water retention and glycemic impact.
Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂ Contains D-amino acids and non-natural amino acids (Aib, D-2-Nal, D-Phe)
Half-life
~2 hours
Administration Route
Subcutaneous
Category
GH Secretagogues
Mechanism of Action
- Selective agonism of the GHS-R1a receptor (ghrelin receptor)
- Dose-dependent GH stimulation from the anterior pituitary
- Synergism with GHRH (CJC-1295/Mod GRF 1-29)
- No significant elevation of cortisol or prolactin
- Preserves the physiological pulsatile pattern of GH secretion
Dosage Protocol
Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose | 200-300 mcg per injection |
| Frequency | 2-3 times daily |
| Timing | Morning, post-workout, and before bed |
| Duration | 8-12 weeks |
Reported Side Effects
Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.
- Headache
- Mild nausea
- Facial flushing
- Tingling
Product Properties
| Purity | >99% |
| Appearance | White lyophilized powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in bacteriostatic water |
| Source | Solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) |
| Storage | Lyophilized: -20°C for up to 2 years, 2-8°C for up to 6 months. Reconstituted: 2-8°C for up to 4 weeks. Protect from light and moisture. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. |
Presentations & Preparation
Vials of Ipamorelin found in the research market:
Reconstitution
- Diluent: Bacteriostatic water
- Volume: 2 ml per 5 mg vial
- Inject slowly against the vial wall
- Gently swirl until fully dissolved
- Never shake
Storage
- Lyophilized: Room temperature (up to 24 months)
- Reconstituted: Refrigerated 2-8°C (up to 4-6 weeks)
- Do not freeze after reconstitution
- Protect from direct light
Scientific Studies
Published studies on Ipamorelin.
Ipamorelin, a new growth-hormone-releasing peptide, induces longitudinal bone growth in rats
Johansen PB, Nowak J, Skjaerbaek C, Flyvbjerg A, Andreassen TT, Wilken M, Orskov H
Ipamorelin, the first selective growth hormone secretagogue
Raun K, Hansen BS, Johansen NL, Thøgersen H, Madsen K, Ankersen M, Andersen PH
Related Peptides
CJC-1295 with DAC
1-2 mg per week · Once per week
CJC-1295 sem DAC
100-200 mcg per injection · 2-3 times daily
GHRP-2
100-300 mcg per injection · 2-3 times per day
GHRP-6
100-300 mcg per injection · 2-3 times per day
Hexarelin
200-300 mcg per injection · 2-3 times per day
MK-677
10-25 mg per dose · Once daily