Ipamorelin
Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂
Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) and ghrelin receptor agonist, belonging to the class of synthetic peptides known as growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs). It is a pentapeptide (Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2) that stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone (GH) without significantly increasing cortisol or prolactin levels. This makes it a preferred option over older GHRPs such as GHRP-6 or GHRP-2, which tend to cause unwanted side effects like increased hunger and elevated stress hormones.
Originally developed for its potential in treating age-related GH decline and growth hormone deficiency (GHD), Ipamorelin has gained popularity in the fitness and anti-ageing communities for its ability to enhance muscle growth, accelerate fat loss, improve recovery, and promote overall well-being. Its ability to mimic the body's natural GH release patterns makes it a safe and effective option for long-term use. Unlike synthetic GH injections, Ipamorelin supports endogenous GH secretion, reducing the risk of desensitisation and downregulation.
Protocols
1. Muscle Growth & Strength Enhancement
Dosage: 200–300 mcg per injection, 2–3 times daily
Cycle: 8–12 weeks on, 4 weeks off
Administration: Subcutaneous (SC) or intramuscular (IM) injection, ideally 30–60 minutes before meals or post-workout
Stacking: Often combined with CJC-1295 (no DAC) for synergistic GH release
Expected Benefits: Increased lean muscle mass, improved recovery, enhanced protein synthesis
2. Fat Loss & Body Recomposition
Dosage: 250–300 mcg per injection, 2–3 times daily
Cycle: 8–12 weeks, with at least a 4-week break
Administration: Best taken in a fasted state (morning and before bed) for optimal GH pulsatility
Stacking: Often used with Mod GRF (1-29) or Tesamorelin for fat-burning effects
Expected Benefits: Enhanced lipolysis, increased energy levels, reduced visceral fat
3. Injury Recovery & Joint Health
Dosage: 200–300 mcg per injection, 2–3 times daily
Cycle: 4–8 weeks depending on injury severity
Administration: SC or IM injection, preferably alongside BPC-157 and TB-500 for maximum tissue repair
Stacking: Works well with peptides that promote collagen synthesis and tendon healing
Expected Benefits: Accelerated healing of tendons, ligaments, and cartilage; reduced inflammation
4. Anti-Ageing & Longevity
Dosage: 100–200 mcg per injection, 1–2 times daily
Cycle: Continuous use with intermittent breaks (e.g., 5 days on, 2 days off)
Administration: Night-time injections to mimic natural GH secretion
Stacking: Often paired with GHK-Cu or low-dose HGH for enhanced rejuvenation
Expected Benefits: Improved skin elasticity, better sleep quality, enhanced cognitive function
Further reading
Ipamorelin operates by selectively binding to the ghrelin receptor (GHSR-1a) in the pituitary gland, stimulating a pulsatile GH release without affecting other hormones such as ACTH or prolactin. This targeted mechanism makes it one of the safest GH secretagogues available, avoiding side effects such as water retention, hunger spikes, and cortisol elevation.
Studies have shown that Ipamorelin’s GH-releasing effect remains consistent over time, with minimal risk of desensitisation. Unlike synthetic GH injections, which can suppress natural GH production, Ipamorelin maintains the body's homeostatic balance. Additionally, its synergistic use with CJC-1295 (no DAC) enhances GH pulsatility while avoiding unnatural elevations in IGF-1 that could contribute to insulin resistance.
Ipamorelin's potential therapeutic applications extend beyond muscle growth and fat loss. Research suggests it may aid in neuroprotection, cognitive function, and immune system modulation. Its ability to improve sleep quality also plays a significant role in optimising recovery and hormonal balance.
One of the key advantages of Ipamorelin is its minimal side effect profile. Unlike GHRP-6, which dramatically increases hunger, or GHRP-2, which raises cortisol levels, Ipamorelin remains highly selective for GH release without interfering with stress hormones. This makes it an attractive option for long-term use in both athletic and anti-ageing contexts.
References
- Bowers, C. Y. (1998). "Growth hormone-releasing peptides and their analogues." Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology, 19(1), 47–72.
Rahim, A., et al. (2000). "Ipamorelin, a new growth hormone-releasing peptide, is a potent stimulator of growth hormone release in humans." The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 85(4), 1277–1280.
Isgaard, J., et al. (2009). "Growth hormone secretagogues: Their role and clinical applications." Endocrine Reviews, 30(5), 545–575.
Hepple, R. T. (2014). "Growth hormone and ageing: Mechanisms and therapeutic potential." Current Aging Science, 7(1), 46–57.
Svensson, J., & Bengtsson, B. A. (2010). "Growth hormone and longevity: A review of studies in the elderly." Endocrinology, 151(3), 1196–1205.