--- title: "Ipamorelin: Dosing & Vendor Prices | BodyHackGuide" url: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/ipamorelin description: "Ipamorelin: dosing protocols, mechanism & side effects, 11 PubMed results. Compare 3 current vendor prices." lang: en --- Skip to content Compare notes on r/BodyHackGuide (https://reddit.com/r/bodyhackguide) Compare notes with other researchers. Join r/BodyHackGuide (https://reddit.com/r/bodyhackguide) Image: Ipamorelin molecular structure (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/assets/peptide-structure-placeholder-DUmZBF_j.png) # Ipamorelin Growth Hormone / IGF-1 Axis (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/wiki#cat-growth-hormone-/-igf-1-axis)Preclinical Also known as: Ipam, IPA Ipamorelin is a selective pentapeptide ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist — one of the most studied growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) in the biohacking community and the modern companion to CJC-1295 / MOD-GRF 1-29. Its five-amino-acid sequence (Aib-His-D-2Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂) was discovered by Novo Nordisk and published in 1998 as "the first selective growth hormone secretagogue" ([Raun et al., 1998]). The word "selective" is the critical term. Image: Ion Peptide logo (https://ionpeptide.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ion-peptide-logo-1-300x148.jpg) Lowest price per mg $4.20/mg $42.00 for 10mg at Ion Peptide · Buy at Ion Peptide: https://ionpeptide.com/product/ipamorelin/?ref=reddit15 Half-life: ~2 hours (plasma) Route: subcutaneous, intravenous (clinical only) MW: 711.9 Da CAS: 170851-70-4 11 PubMed results (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=ipamorelin%20growth%20hormone%20secretagogue) Last reviewed: May 4, 2026 Reconstitution Calculator for Ipamorelin Pre-filled · 5mg vial · 200mcg dose https://www.bodyhackguide.co/tools/reconstitution/ipamorelin ## Overview ### At A Glance Mechanism Ipamorelin acts as a selective agonist at the growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHS-R1a), the same receptor activated by endogenous ghrelin - the "hunger hormone" secreted primarily by P/D1 cells in the gastric fundus. The distinguishing feature of ipamorelin among GHS p… Half-Life ~2 hours (plasma) Dosing 1–3 times daily; most commonly once at bedtime Dose Range 100-300 mcg subcutaneous 1-3x daily (most commonly 200-300 mcg pre-bedtime); often combined with CJC-1295 without DAC at 100-300 mcg Routes subcutaneous intravenous (clinical only) Common Vials 2mg 5mg Potential Benefits Increased GH pulse amplitude (selective somatotroph activation) Elevated IGF-1 (~30-80% over baseline) with consistent dosing Improved slow-wave sleep architecture No cortisol / prolactin / ACTH elevation (unique among GHS peptides) Accelerated connective tissue and wound repair Modest lean body mass gain + fat loss in hypogonadal adults Enhanced recovery between training sessions Synergistic effect with CJC-1295 / MOD-GRF 1-29 Safety Notes Common Transient head rush or flushing immediately post-injection Mild injection site irritation Transient hunger increase (ghrelin pathway activation) Water retention during initial 1-2 weeks of use Mild tingling or numbness in extremities (transient) Serious Potential to accelerate growth of undiagnosed malignancy via GH/IGF-1 axis Carpal tunnel syndrome with prolonged supraphysiological GH/IGF-1 levels Insulin resistance with chronic use — monitor fasting glucose and HbA1c No human clinical trials completed beyond early-phase studies ### Mechanism of Action Ipamorelin acts as a selective agonist at the **growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHS-R1a)**, the same receptor activated by endogenous **ghrelin** - the "hunger hormone" secreted primarily by P/D1 cells in the gastric fundus. The distinguishing feature of ipamorelin among GHS peptides is its receptor specificity profile, which explains its clean side-effect profile. **1. GHS-R1a agonism (Gq/11 / PLC / IP / Ca pathway)** - GHS-R1a is a Class A G-protein-coupled receptor expressed on pituitary somatotrophs, hypothalamic arcuate-nucleus neurons, and (at lower density) gastric cells, pancreatic islets, and cardiomyocytes - Ligand binding activates Gq/11, triggering phospholipase-C, which cleaves PIP into IP and DAG - IP mobilizes intracellular Ca; DAG activates PKC - Net effect: depolarization of the somatotroph and rapid exocytosis of preformed GH granules - GH rise is detectable within 15 minutes and peaks at 30-60 minutes post-injection Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide (Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH) that releases GH from pituitary somatotrophs with an EC of ~1.3 nM in vitro - comparable in potency and efficacy to GHRP-6, but with a dramatically different selectivity profile at secondary sites (Raun et al., 1998 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9849822/)). **2. The "selective" property - why ipamorelin is different from GHRP-2 / GHRP-6 / hexarelin** All GHS peptides activate GHS-R1a, but the earlier generation (hexarelin, GHRP-6) also cross-reacted with adjacent receptors on corticotrophs and lactotrophs, producing: - Cortisol elevation (via ACTH release) - Prolactin elevation - ACTH elevation In conscious swine, ipamorelin at doses **more than 200-fold higher than its GH-releasing ED** produced no significant elevation of ACTH, cortisol, FSH, LH, prolactin, or TSH, whereas GHRP-6 and GHRP-2 raised ACTH and cortisol (Raun et al., 1998 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9849822/)). This selectivity - established in animal studies rather than a human comparison trial - is the main reason ipamorelin became the GHS peptide of choice for long-term biohacking protocols; the absence of cortisol elevation means it can be stacked without compromising recovery, immune function, or sleep architecture. **3. Synergy with GHRH analogs (the foundation of the GHS stack)** The standard biohacking protocol pairs ipamorelin with a **GHRH analog** (most commonly MOD-GRF 1-29 / CJC-1295 without DAC) because the two signaling pathways converge on the same pituitary cell through different second messengers: | Pathway | Receptor | G-protein | Second Messenger | Effect on Somatotroph | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Ipamorelin | GHS-R1a | Gq/11 | IP / Ca / DAG-PKC | Depolarization + exocytosis | | MOD-GRF 1-29 | GHRHR | Gs | cAMP / PKA / CREB | Gene transcription + granule mobilization | Dual activation produces a GH pulse **several-fold larger than either agent alone** - a well-documented synergy - and recruits a larger fraction of the total somatotroph reserve (Bowers, 1996 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8887169/)). This is why GHRH-only or ghrelin-only protocols are suboptimal and nearly all clinical and research protocols use the combination. **4. Pulsatile release preserves physiology** Because ipamorelin clears in ~2 hours, each injection produces a discrete GH pulse that is reabsorbed into the body's normal pulsatile GH architecture. Between pulses, **somatostatin (GHIH)** can appropriately suppress GH - preserving negative feedback and preventing the receptor desensitization seen with sustained-release analogs like CJC-1295 with DAC. **5. Downstream effects: IGF-1, body composition, sleep** - Acute GH pulse hepatic IGF-1 synthesis (peaks at ~24h post-dose) - IGF-1 drives muscle protein synthesis, cartilage deposition, and lipolysis in adipose tissue - Consistent dosing elevates steady-state IGF-1 by ~30-80% over baseline within 2-4 weeks (Sigalos & Pastuszak, 2018 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28400207/)) - Secondary effects: improved slow-wave sleep (GH pulses physiologically occur during SWS), accelerated wound/connective tissue repair, modest lean-mass gains in hypogonadal populations **6. Secondary physiologic effects (ghrelin-receptor biology)** Because GHS-R1a is expressed beyond the pituitary, chronic ipamorelin administration has minor effects on: - **Appetite** - generally mild increase (much less than native ghrelin due to the shorter duration of action) - **Gastric motility** - accelerates gastric emptying; this is why it was investigated for post-operative ileus - **Cardiovascular** - cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory signaling in some animal models ### Overview Ipamorelin is a **selective pentapeptide ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist** — one of the most studied **growth hormone secretagogues (GHS)** in the biohacking community and the modern companion to CJC-1295 / MOD-GRF 1-29 (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/cjc-1295). Its five-amino-acid sequence (Aib-His-D-2Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂) was discovered by Novo Nordisk and published in 1998 as "the first selective growth hormone secretagogue" ([Raun et al., 1998]). The word **"selective"** is the critical term. Earlier GHS peptides (hexarelin, GHRP-6, GHRP-2) all release GH but also raise cortisol, prolactin, and ACTH — because the ghrelin receptor is expressed on corticotrophs and lactotrophs as well as somatotrophs. Ipamorelin is the first and only GHS peptide clinically characterized as producing **no significant rise in cortisol, prolactin, ACTH, LH, FSH, or TSH** even at doses 30-fold above the GH-releasing dose ([Johansen et al., 1999]). This makes it functionally clean — you get the anabolic GH/IGF-1 axis activation without the stress-hormone and mammary-tissue side effects that plague GHRP-2 and GHRP-6. Ipamorelin has an in vivo half-life of approximately **2 hours** in humans ([Gobburu et al., 1999]). Each subcutaneous injection produces a single transient GH pulse peaking at 30-60 minutes. Typical dosing is **100-300 mcg SC, 1-3 times daily**, almost always co-administered with a GHRH analog (MOD-GRF 1-29 or sermorelin) to exploit the well-documented **ghrelin × GHRH synergy** — the two pathways converge on pituitary somatotrophs through distinct second messengers and produce a GH pulse 3-5x greater than either agent alone ([Bowers et al., 1991]). Clinical development by Helsinn Therapeutics (licensed from Novo Nordisk) reached Phase 2B for post-operative ileus, where IV ipamorelin demonstrated faster recovery of gastrointestinal transit after abdominal surgery ([Beck et al., 2013]). Development for that indication was subsequently halted, and **ipamorelin is not FDA-approved for any indication**. It remains widely available as a compounding-pharmacy peptide and research-use reagent. See our Ipamorelin Dosage Guide (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/guides/dosage/ipamorelin) and Reconstitution Tool (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/tools/reconstitution/ipamorelin) for protocol specifics. The standard stack partner is documented at /compound/cjc-1295 (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/cjc-1295). ### Potential Research Fields Growth hormone deficiency Body composition Aging Bone density ## Chemical Information IUPAC Name Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2 CAS Number 170851-70-4 Molecular Formula C38H49N9O5 Molecular Mass 711.86 g/mol Image: Ipamorelin molecular structure (https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/rest/pug/compound/cid/9831659/PNG?image_size=300x300) View on PubChem: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/9831659 Amino Acid Sequence Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2 ## Dosing & Protocols ### Unlock the dosing protocols Enter your email to keep reading. It is free, and it opens these tabs on every compound page in this browser. - Dose, route, how often and how long - A titration schedule - Beginner, intermediate and advanced protocols - Reconstitution and handling notes You also get the free peptide cheat sheet by email. Unsubscribe anytime. Have an account? Sign in (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/auth) ## Research ### Unlock the research summary - A summary of the key research - Safety and side effects - A link to the PubMed results ## Interactions ### Interaction Matrix ### Contraindications **Absolute contraindications** - **Active malignancy** — GH and IGF-1 are trophic factors for multiple cancer cell lines. While ipamorelin-specific cancer data does not exist, the GH/IGF-1 axis is implicated in colorectal, prostate, breast, and hepatocellular cancer progression ([Renehan et al., 2004]). Do not use during active cancer treatment or within 5 years of complete remission without oncologist clearance - **Known or suspected pituitary tumor / acromegaly** — superimposing exogenous secretagogue on an already-hyperactive somatotroph axis can accelerate tumor growth and precipitate acromegalic complications - **Active diabetic retinopathy** — GH elevation can worsen proliferative retinopathy; absolute contraindication until retinopathy is stabilized - **Pregnancy or breastfeeding** — no safety data; do not use - **Age <18** — no pediatric safety data; pediatric GHD is managed with prescription GHRH analogs (sermorelin) under endocrinology supervision, not biohacking protocols **Relative contraindications (consult physician before use)** - **Type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes** — GH elevation impairs insulin sensitivity; use requires careful glucose monitoring and may accelerate progression in borderline cases - **Uncontrolled hypertension** — fluid retention can exacerbate blood pressure - **History of carpal tunnel syndrome** — fluid retention and connective tissue expansion can worsen symptoms - **Hypothyroidism** — thyroid status affects GH axis; optimize thyroid first - **History of pituitary or hypothalamic surgery or radiation** — altered GHRH/ghrelin receptor status; unpredictable response **Drug interactions** - **Insulin and oral hypoglycemics** — ipamorelin's effect on glucose tolerance may require dose adjustments of antidiabetic medications - **Corticosteroids** — chronic systemic corticosteroids suppress the GH axis and blunt ipamorelin response - **Recombinant GH (Somatropin)** — redundant; do not combine - **Other GHS peptides** — do not stack (see stacking notes) **Monitoring requirements for users** - **Baseline labs:** Fasting glucose, HbA1c, IGF-1, complete metabolic panel, CBC, PSA (men >40), full thyroid panel - **4-6 weeks into dosing:** Fasting glucose, IGF-1 (confirm within age-appropriate range) - **End of each cycle:** Full panel; look for HbA1c creep, PSA changes, IGF-1 elevation above age-adjusted ULN **Discontinuation criteria** Stop ipamorelin and consult a clinician if you develop: - Persistent peripheral edema or facial swelling - New or worsening carpal tunnel symptoms - IGF-1 levels >300 ng/mL (supraphysiologic in most adults) - Fasting glucose persistently >110 mg/dL or HbA1c rising >0.4 points - Any new palpable mass, changing mole, or unexplained weight loss (cancer workup indicated) - Severe headache, visual changes (rule out pituitary pathology) Research Disclaimer This interaction data is compiled from published research and community reports. It may not be exhaustive. Always consult a healthcare professional before combining compounds. Best Price $24.99 up to $59.99 Best $/mg $4.2000 Vendors 3 Listings 5 vial Dosage Form Sort | Vendor | Product | Form | Qty | Price | $/mg | Coupon | | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Image: Disguised Alpha logo (https://disguisedalpha.com/wp-content/themes/assets/logos/disguised-logo-2x.png) Disguised Alpha (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors/disguised-alpha) 50: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendor-trust-scorecard 🇺🇸 US 🇪🇺 EU 🇬🇧 UK | Ipamorelin | vial | 1 vial ● In Stock | $59.99 | — | — | Buy: https://disguisedalpha.com/product/ipamorelin/?coupon=reddit | | Image: Ion Peptide logo (https://ionpeptide.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ion-peptide-logo-1-300x148.jpg) Ion Peptide (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors/ion-peptide) 70: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendor-trust-scorecard 🇺🇸 US 🌍 International | Ipamorelin 5mg | vial | 1 vial ● Out of Stock | $35.00 | $7.00 | — | View: https://ionpeptide.com/product/ipamorelin/?ref=reddit15 | | Image: Ion Peptide logo (https://ionpeptide.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ion-peptide-logo-1-300x148.jpg) Ion Peptide (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors/ion-peptide) 70: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendor-trust-scorecard 🇺🇸 US 🌍 International | Ipamorelin 10mg | vial | 1 vial ● In Stock | $42.00 VALUE | $4.20 | — | Buy: https://ionpeptide.com/product/ipamorelin/?ref=reddit15 | | Image: VANDL Labs logo (https://halfnattys.shop/wp-content/themes/halfnattys/assets/img/logo.webp) VANDL Labs (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors/vandl-labs) 50: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendor-trust-scorecard 🇺🇸 US | Ipamorelin 2mg | vial | 2mg vial ● In Stock | $24.99 BEST | $12.49 | CHON | Buy: https://www.vandl-labs.com/product/ipamorelin/?ref=choncho | | Image: VANDL Labs logo (https://halfnattys.shop/wp-content/themes/halfnattys/assets/img/logo.webp) VANDL Labs (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors/vandl-labs) 50: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendor-trust-scorecard 🇺🇸 US | Ipamorelin 5mg | vial | 5mg vial ● In Stock | $34.99 | $7.00 | CHON | Buy: https://www.vandl-labs.com/product/ipamorelin/?ref=choncho | ### Sign in to leave a review Reviews on BodyHackGuide are tied to verified user accounts and moderated before publishing. Sign in (free, no spam) to share your experience with Ipamorelin. Current low $24.99 current listings 7-day low — not enough history yet 30-day low — not enough history yet 30-day change — not enough history yet Tracking since Mar 13, 2026 · 6 data points ## Price History 4 data points ### Vendors Selling Ipamorelin #### VANDL Labs 2 listings · from $24.99 https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors/vandl-labs #### Ion Peptide 4.5 2 listings · from $35.00 https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors/ion-peptide #### Disguised Alpha 1 listing · from $59.99 https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors/disguised-alpha How we score these vendors Every supplier above is graded 0 to 100 on COA verification, payment transparency, shipping, reviews, and active listings. Methodology published, no pay-to-rank. View Scorecard (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors/scorecard) ### Related Compounds View All (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/wiki) ### CJC-1295 (Mod GRF 1-29) Growth Hormone / IGF-1 Axis Preclinical CJC-1295 without DAC (also called Modified GRF 1-29 or MOD-GRF 1-29) is a 30-amino-acid analog of the first 29 residues of endogenous Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH), with four strategic substitutions (D-Ala² for DPP-4 resistance, Gln⁸, Ala¹⁵, Leu²⁷) that extend its plasma half-life from <2 minutes (native GHRH) to ~30 minutes. t½ ~30 minutes (without DAC / MOD-GRF 1-29); ~6-8 days (with DAC, due to covalent albumin binding) Without DAC: 100-300 mcg subcutaneous 1-3x daily (typically pre-bedtime); With DAC: 1000-2000 mcg subcutaneous once weekly 29 PubMed View Profile https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/cjc-1295 ### CJC-1295 with DAC Growth Hormone / IGF-1 Axis Phase 2 CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) is a modified form of CJC-1295 that incorporates a maleimidopropionic acid (MPA) reactive group at the C-terminus. t½ 6–8 days (due to albumin binding via DAC) 1,000–2,000 mcg (1–2 mg) per injection Preclinical View Profile https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/cjc-1295-dac ### CJC-1295 with DAC Growth Hormone / IGF-1 Axis Preclinical / Research peptide CJC-1295 with DAC is the long-acting variant of CJC-1295. t½ ~6-8 days (DAC-bound albumin depot) 1000-2000 mcg (1-2 mg) per week Preclinical View Profile https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/cjc-1295-with-dac ### GHRP-2 Growth Hormone / IGF-1 Axis Phase 2 GHRP-2 (growth hormone-releasing peptide-2), also known as pralmorelin and KP-102, is a synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue that was among the first GHRPs developed in the seminal research of Cyril Bowers and colleagues at Tulane University in the late 1980s and early 1990s. t½ ~15-30 minutes 100–300 mcg per injection 212 PubMed View Profile https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/ghrp-2 ### GHRP-6 Growth Hormone / IGF-1 Axis Phase 2 GHRP-6 (growth hormone-releasing peptide-6) is a synthetic hexapeptide with the sequence His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2 that binds the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) to stimulate endogenous growth hormone release. t½ ~20–30 minutes 100–300 mcg per injection 156 PubMed View Profile https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/ghrp-6 ### Hexarelin Growth Hormone / IGF-1 Axis Phase 2 Hexarelin (also called examorelin) is a potent synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone secretagogue with the sequence His-D-2-methyl-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2. t½ ~55 minutes (IV, per Imbimbo 1994) 100–200 mcg per injection 14 PubMed View Profile https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/hexarelin ### Side-by-Side Comparisons All Comparisons (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compare) Ipamorelin vs MK-677 (Ibutamoren): https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compare/ipamorelin-vs-mk-677 Ipamorelin vs CJC-1295 (Mod GRF 1-29): https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compare/cjc-1295-vs-ipamorelin Ipamorelin vs Sermorelin: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compare/sermorelin-vs-ipamorelin Ipamorelin vs Hexarelin: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compare/hexarelin-vs-ipamorelin Ipamorelin vs IGF-1 LR3: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compare/igf-1-lr3-vs-ipamorelin Ipamorelin vs GHRP-2: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compare/ghrp-2-vs-ipamorelin View Full Dosage Guide → Protocols, calculator & safety for Ipamorelin https://www.bodyhackguide.co/guides/dosage/ipamorelin ### Related Articles All Posts (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/blog) #### The 8 Best Peptide Companies for Research: 2026 Purity & Price Comparison A data-driven comparison of every active peptide vendor we track: COA audit results, price-per-mg tables for 19 compounds, and a step-by-step purchase guide. 9/16/2026 https://www.bodyhackguide.co/blog/best-peptide-companies-2026 #### Tesamorelin: A Complete Research Reference Tesamorelin is a synthetic, stabilized GHRH analog approved as Egrifta for HIV-associated visceral fat. This guide covers the real trial evidence for visceral fat, liver fat, and cognition, how it differs from CJC-1295 and from GH itself, the approved and studied doses, and how the peptide-research community discusses it, with research-use-only framing throughout. 7/1/2026 https://www.bodyhackguide.co/blog/tesamorelin-research-guide #### CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin: A Complete Research Reference CJC-1295 is a GHRH analog that raises the growth-hormone "signal," while Ipamorelin is a selective ghrelin-receptor (GHS-R) agonist that amplifies the GH pulse. Researchers pair them because they act on two different but complementary pathways at once. These are research compounds only, not for human use, and most of the supporting evidence is preclinical or early-stage. 7/1/2026 https://www.bodyhackguide.co/blog/cjc-1295-ipamorelin-guide ### Lowest Price per mg Ion Peptide $42.00($4.20/mg) 3 vendors · 5 listings ### Research Score 61 11 PubMed results ### Quality Indicators Data Completeness 100% Description Mechanism of Action Chemical Data Dosing Protocols Safety Profile PubMed Results Interactions Vendor Listings Research Volume 11 PubMed results ### Quick Facts Half-Life ~2 hours (plasma) Molecular Weight 711.86 g/mol Administration subcutaneous, intravenous (clinical only) CAS Number 170851-70-4 Trial Phase Preclinical ### Safety Profile Common Side Effects - • Transient head rush or flushing immediately post-injection - • Mild injection site irritation - • Transient hunger increase (ghrelin pathway activation) - • Water retention during initial 1-2 weeks of use - • Mild tingling or numbness in extremities (transient) Research Disclaimer This information is for educational and research purposes only. Not intended as medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before use. ## Frequently Asked Questions What makes ipamorelin different from other GHS peptides like GHRP-2 or GHRP-6? Ipamorelin was the first GHS peptide shown to release growth hormone **without elevating cortisol, prolactin, ACTH, LH, FSH, or TSH** - in the original animal studies it remained selective even at doses more than 200-fold above its GH-releasing dose (Raun et al., 1998, in swine). Earlier GHS peptides (GHRP-2, GHRP-6, hexarelin) also stimulate corticotrophs and lactotrophs, producing cortisol and prolactin spikes that can compromise recovery, immune function, and (in men) breast tissue. This 'selective' property is the reason ipamorelin became the default GHS peptide for modern biohacking protocols. Note that this selectivity was established in animals, not in a human comparison trial. Do I need to stack ipamorelin with CJC-1295 or MOD-GRF 1-29? Functionally, yes. Ipamorelin alone produces a modest GH pulse. Paired with a GHRH analog (MOD-GRF 1-29 / CJC-1295 without DAC), the GH pulse is several-fold larger - because the two signaling pathways converge on the same pituitary somatotroph through distinct second messengers (Gq/PLC/IP vs Gs/cAMP/PKA) and activate a much larger fraction of the GH reserve. Nearly all clinical and research protocols use the combination; standalone ipamorelin is primarily used in weeks 1-4 of a beginner protocol to confirm tolerance before adding the GHRH partner. What's the correct ipamorelin dose and how often should I inject? Therapeutic range is **100-300 mcg subcutaneously per injection, 1-3x daily**. Common protocols: (1) Sleep / recovery focus - 200 mcg pre-bed once daily; (2) Body composition - 200 mcg + 100 mcg MOD-GRF 1-29 twice daily (pre-bed + morning fasted); (3) Advanced - 100-200 mcg tri-daily. Dose-response plateaus above 300 mcg per injection - more frequent smaller pulses outperform larger single doses. All doses must be in a fasted state (>=2 hours post-meal); elevated insulin blunts GH response by 50-70%. Why must I inject ipamorelin in a fasted state? Elevated insulin suppresses pituitary GH release through increased somatostatin tone and reduced somatotroph sensitivity. Post-meal dosing can cut the GH pulse by 50-70%. The two reliably fasted windows are **pre-bed** (2+ hours after the evening meal) and **morning on waking** (before the first meal). Carbohydrates and protein both elevate insulin - fat alone has minimal effect but a pure fasted window is cleanest. Alcohol independently suppresses GH; avoid within 4 hours of dosing. How long does it take to see results from ipamorelin? Effects appear on different timelines: (1) **Sleep quality and deeper SWS** within 1-3 nights; (2) **Recovery between training sessions** within 1-2 weeks; (3) **IGF-1 elevation** measurable at 4 weeks (typically +30-80% over baseline with the ipamorelin + MOD-GRF stack); (4) **Body composition changes** (lean mass, visceral fat) visible at 8-12 weeks with consistent dosing; (5) **Connective tissue / injury repair acceleration** within 4-6 weeks, often used alongside BPC-157 and TB-500. Note that effects are dose-dependent - 200 mcg once daily will produce subtler changes than the 2-3x daily stacked protocol. What are the actual side effects of ipamorelin? The cleanest profile of any GHS peptide. **Common:** injection site reactions, transient hunger (less than GHRP-6), vivid dreams, brief head-heaviness 10-30 min post-injection. **Uncommon:** mild water retention, hand paresthesias (early water-retention sign), joint stiffness as IGF-1 rises. **Rare:** insulin resistance at high chronic doses, carpal tunnel symptoms. Unlike GHRP-2/6, ipamorelin does NOT elevate cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH. Most side effects are dose-dependent - stay at or below 300 mcg per injection and cycle (8-12 weeks on / 4-6 weeks off) to minimize cumulative burden. Is ipamorelin safer than injecting actual growth hormone (somatropin)? Mechanistically, yes - but with caveats. Ipamorelin amplifies the body's **own pulsatile GH release** via the pituitary, preserving negative feedback (somatostatin can still suppress GH between pulses) and physiologic pulse architecture. Exogenous somatropin bypasses the pituitary and produces tonic, non-pulsatile GH elevation, which carries a higher burden of insulin resistance, edema, and theoretical cancer-axis concerns. However, both share the GH/IGF-1 safety envelope: active malignancy, diabetic retinopathy, and pituitary tumors are absolute contraindications for both. Ipamorelin is NOT FDA-approved; somatropin is FDA-approved for specific indications. Neither is a replacement for the other - they occupy different therapeutic niches. Does ipamorelin affect appetite or cause weight gain? Mildly. Ipamorelin activates the same receptor (GHS-R1a) as ghrelin, which is involved in hunger signaling. In practice the appetite effect is much smaller than GHRP-6 because ipamorelin's ~2-hour half-life limits tonic activation of hypothalamic feeding neurons. Most users report minor evening hunger at the pre-bed dose - this can be managed by injecting 20-30 min before lights-out so sleep supersedes the appetite signal. Weight typically goes UP on ipamorelin due to (a) increased lean body mass from GH/IGF-1 elevation and (b) modest fluid retention; fat mass typically goes DOWN. Tracking body composition (DEXA or bioimpedance) is more useful than scale weight. Can I combine ipamorelin with semaglutide, TRT, BPC-157, or other peptides? Yes, with different rationales. **Semaglutide / tirzepatide:** ipamorelin + MOD-GRF 1-29 preserves lean mass during the GLP-1-induced caloric deficit; this is a common recomposition stack. **TRT:** fully complementary - HPG and GH axes are independent; combined use is standard in integrative clinics. **BPC-157 / TB-500:** synergistic for connective tissue repair - GH/IGF-1 provides the systemic anabolic signal that BPC-157 local repair mechanisms can leverage. **NAD+ / NMN:** mitochondrial support for the increased protein synthesis demand. **DO NOT stack** with other ghrelin-receptor agonists (GHRP-2/6, hexarelin, MK-677) - redundant at the receptor - or with exogenous recombinant GH (mechanistically defeating). Is ipamorelin legal and where does it come from? Ipamorelin is **not FDA-approved** for any indication in the United States. Originally discovered at Novo Nordisk, it was later developed for post-operative ileus, but that program reached only a Phase 2 proof-of-concept trial that **missed its primary endpoint** (median time to first tolerated meal 25.3 h vs 32.6 h on placebo, p=0.15) and development was discontinued (Beck et al., 2014). It is sold as a research chemical (not for human use) and is also dispensed by some compounding pharmacies and anti-aging / integrative clinics on a prescription basis. Legal status for personal use varies by jurisdiction - always verify local regulations. Quality varies substantially between suppliers; third-party HPLC and mass-spec testing is the only way to verify identity and purity. See our Best Peptide Vendors 2026 (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/guides/best-vendors-2026) guide for vetted sources. ## Research Tools ### Peptide Calculator Reconstitution & syringe units https://www.bodyhackguide.co/tools/reconstitution ### Reconstitution Guide How to mix, step by step https://www.bodyhackguide.co/guides/how-to-reconstitute-peptides ### Nasal Spray Calc mL per actuation https://www.bodyhackguide.co/tools/intranasal ### Half-Life Visualizer Decay curves https://www.bodyhackguide.co/tools/halflife ## Related Compounds ### CJC-1295 (Mod GRF 1-29) Growth Hormone / IGF-1 Axis Preclinical ### CJC-1295 with DAC Growth Hormone / IGF-1 Axis Phase 2 ### CJC-1295 with DAC ### GHRP-2 Growth Hormone / IGF-1 Axis Phase 2 ### GHRP-6 Growth Hormone / IGF-1 Axis Phase 2 ### Hexarelin Growth Hormone / IGF-1 Axis Phase 2 ## Side-by-Side Comparisons Compare Ipamorelin head-to-head: mechanism, half-life, dosing, safety, and vendor prices. Free 2026 Peptide Cheat Sheet (PDF) 38 compounds and blends: vial sizes, BAC water volumes, dosing ranges and bloodwork markers. Download Free (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/guides/peptide-cheat-sheet-download) ### Need bloodwork before starting? Full hormone + metabolic panels from Anabolic Insights. Code CHONCH for first-order discount. Image: BodyHackGuide (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/assets/bodyhackguide-logo-DOzZNUyh.webp) ### BodyHackGuide Your biohacking research hub: compound pricing, brain health protocols, dosing tools, and vendor reviews. support@bodyhackguide.co Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/Mhq5UdRYBA r/BodyHackGuide on Reddit: https://reddit.com/r/BodyHackGuide #### Explore - Compare prices: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compare - Vendors: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors - Deals: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/deals - Coupons: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/coupons - Nootropics: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/nootropics - Brain health: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/brain-health - Blog: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/blog - Guides: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/guides #### Tools - Reconstitution: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/tools/reconstitution - Half-life visualizer: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/tools/halflife - COA reader: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/tools/coa - Cost calculator: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/tools/cost-calculator - Stack builder: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/stack-builder - All tools: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/tools #### Trust & vendors - Vendor directory: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors - Trust scorecard: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors/scorecard - Vendor trust badge: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors/get-vetted - Scoring methodology: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors/methodology - Peptide cheat sheet: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/guides/peptide-cheat-sheet-download #### Company - About: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/about - Affiliate disclosure: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/affiliate-disclosure - Editorial standards: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/editorial-standards - Creators: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/creators - Coaches: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/coaches - 1-on-1 coaching: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/coaching - Privacy: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/privacy - Terms: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/terms - Full site directory: https://www.bodyhackguide.co/site-directory **Affiliate Disclosure:** We rank every vendor on the same public, reproducible methodology (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/vendors/methodology), and we earn a commission from purchases made through some of our links at no extra cost to you. Full details in our affiliate disclosure (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/affiliate-disclosure). **Research Disclaimer:** All compounds listed are for laboratory and research purposes only. Not for human consumption. This site does not sell or ship any products. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional and comply with local regulations. © 2026 BodyHackGuide. All rights reserved. · Terms (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/terms) · Privacy (https://www.bodyhackguide.co/privacy) ## Structured data ```json [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Compounds", "item": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compare" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Ipamorelin" } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Product", "name": "Ipamorelin", "description": "Ipamorelin is a selective pentapeptide ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist — one of the most studied growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) in the biohacking community and the modern companion to CJC-1295 / MOD-GRF 1-29. Its five-amino-acid sequence (Aib-His-D-2Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂) was discovered by Novo Nordisk and published in 1998 as \"the first selective growth hormone secretagogue\" ([Raun et al., 1998]). The word \"selective\" is the critical term. Earlier GHS peptides (hexarelin, GHRP-6, GHRP-2) all release GH but also raise cortisol, prolactin, and ACTH — because the ghrelin receptor is expressed on corticotrophs and lactotrophs as well as somatotrophs. Ipamorelin is the first and only GHS peptide clinically characterized as producing no significant rise in cortisol, prolactin, ACTH, LH, FSH, or TSH even at doses 30-fold above the GH-releasing dose ([Johansen et al., 1999]). This makes it functionally clean — you get the anabolic GH/IGF-1 axis activation without the stress-hormone and mammary-tissue side effects that plague GHRP-2 and GHRP-6. Ipamorelin has an in vivo half-life of approximately 2 hours in humans ([Gobburu et al., 1999]). Each subcutaneous injection produces a single transient GH pulse peaking at 30-60 minutes. Typical dosing is 100-300 mcg SC, 1-3 times daily, almost always co-administered with a GHRH analog (MOD-GRF 1-29 or sermorelin) to exploit the well-documented ghrelin × GHRH synergy — the two pathways converge on pituitary somatotrophs through distinct second messengers and produce a GH pulse 3-5x greater than either agent alone ([Bowers et al., 1991]). Clinical development by Helsinn Therapeutics (licensed from Novo Nordisk) reached Phase 2B for post-operative ileus, where IV ipamorelin demonstrated faster recovery of gastrointestinal transit after abdominal surgery ([Beck et al., 2013]). Development for that indication was subsequently halted, and ipamorelin is not FDA-approved for any indication. It remains widely available as a compounding-pharmacy peptide and research-use reagent. See our Ipamorelin Dosage Guide and Reconstitution Tool for protocol specifics. The standard stack partner is documented at /compound/cjc-1295.", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/ipamorelin", "image": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/og-image.png", "brand": { "@type": "Brand", "name": "Research Compound" }, "offers": { "@type": "AggregateOffer", "lowPrice": "24.99", "highPrice": "59.99", "priceCurrency": "USD", "offerCount": "4", "availability": "https://schema.org/InStock", "offers": [ { "@type": "Offer", "price": "24.99", "priceCurrency": "USD", "availability": "https://schema.org/InStock", "itemCondition": "https://schema.org/NewCondition", "url": "https://www.vandl-labs.com/product/ipamorelin/?ref=choncho", "seller": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "VANDL Labs", "url": "https://www.vandl-labs.com/?ref=choncho" }, "name": "Ipamorelin 2mg vial" }, { "@type": "Offer", "price": "34.99", "priceCurrency": "USD", "availability": "https://schema.org/InStock", "itemCondition": "https://schema.org/NewCondition", "url": "https://www.vandl-labs.com/product/ipamorelin/?ref=choncho", "seller": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "VANDL Labs", "url": "https://www.vandl-labs.com/?ref=choncho" }, "name": "Ipamorelin 5mg vial" }, { "@type": "Offer", "price": "42.00", "priceCurrency": "USD", "availability": "https://schema.org/InStock", "itemCondition": "https://schema.org/NewCondition", "url": "https://ionpeptide.com/product/ipamorelin/?ref=reddit15", "seller": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Ion Peptide", "url": "https://ionpeptide.com" }, "name": "Ipamorelin 10mg vial" }, { "@type": "Offer", "price": "59.99", "priceCurrency": "USD", "availability": "https://schema.org/InStock", "itemCondition": "https://schema.org/NewCondition", "url": "https://disguisedalpha.com/product/ipamorelin/?coupon=reddit", "seller": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Disguised Alpha", "url": "https://disguisedalpha.com/?coupon=reddit" } } ] } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "MedicalWebPage", "name": "Ipamorelin", "description": "Ipamorelin is a selective pentapeptide ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist — one of the most studied growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) in the biohacking community and the modern companion to CJC-1295 / MOD-GRF 1-29. Its five-amino-acid sequence (Aib-His-D-2Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂) was discovered by Novo Nordisk and published in 1998 as \"the first selective growth hormone secretagogue\" ([Raun et al., 1998]). The word \"selective\" is the critical term. Earlier GHS peptides (hexarelin, GHRP-6, GHRP-2) all release GH but also raise cortisol, prolactin, and ACTH — because the ghrelin receptor is expressed on corticotrophs and lactotrophs as well as somatotrophs. Ipamorelin is the first and only GHS peptide clinically characterized as producing no significant rise in cortisol, prolactin, ACTH, LH, FSH, or TSH even at doses 30-fold above the GH-releasing dose ([Johansen et al., 1999]). This makes it functionally clean — you get the anabolic GH/IGF-1 axis activation without the stress-hormone and mammary-tissue side effects that plague GHRP-2 and GHRP-6. Ipamorelin has an in vivo half-life of approximately 2 hours in humans ([Gobburu et al., 1999]). Each subcutaneous injection produces a single transient GH pulse peaking at 30-60 minutes. Typical dosing is 100-300 mcg SC, 1-3 times daily, almost always co-administered with a GHRH analog (MOD-GRF 1-29 or sermorelin) to exploit the well-documented ghrelin × GHRH synergy — the two pathways converge on pituitary somatotrophs through distinct second messengers and produce a GH pulse 3-5x greater than either agent alone ([Bowers et al., 1991]). Clinical development by Helsinn Therapeutics (licensed from Novo Nordisk) reached Phase 2B for post-operative ileus, where IV ipamorelin demonstrated faster recovery of gastrointestinal transit after abdominal surgery ([Beck et al., 2013]). Development for that indication was subsequently halted, and ipamorelin is not FDA-approved for any indication. It remains widely available as a compounding-pharmacy peptide and research-use reagent. See our Ipamorelin Dosage Guide and Reconstitution Tool for protocol specifics. The standard stack partner is documented at /compound/cjc-1295.", "lastReviewed": "2026-05-04T11:34:44.717+00:00", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/compound/ipamorelin", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "BioChonch", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/about", "jobTitle": "Founder & Lead Researcher", "sameAs": [ "https://reddit.com/r/BodyHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/BrainHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/Biohackingher" ], "worksFor": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "BodyHackGuide", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co" } }, "reviewedBy": { "@type": "Person", "name": "BioChonch", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/about", "jobTitle": "Founder & Lead Researcher", "sameAs": [ "https://reddit.com/r/BodyHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/BrainHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/Biohackingher" ], "worksFor": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "BodyHackGuide", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co" } }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "BodyHackGuide", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co" }, "mainContentOfPage": { "@type": "WebPageElement", "cssSelector": "main" }, "about": { "@type": "Drug", "name": "Ipamorelin", "alternateName": [ "Ipam", "IPA" ], "description": "Ipamorelin is a selective pentapeptide ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist — one of the most studied growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) in the biohacking community and the modern companion to CJC-1295 / MOD-GRF 1-29. Its five-amino-acid sequence (Aib-His-D-2Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂) was discovered by Novo Nordisk and published in 1998 as \"the first selective growth hormone secretagogue\" ([Raun et al., 1998]). The word \"selective\" is the critical term. Earlier GHS peptides (hexarelin, GHRP-6, GHRP-2) all release GH but also raise cortisol, prolactin, and ACTH — because the ghrelin receptor is expressed on corticotrophs and lactotrophs as well as somatotrophs. Ipamorelin is the first and only GHS peptide clinically characterized as producing no significant rise in cortisol, prolactin, ACTH, LH, FSH, or TSH even at doses 30-fold above the GH-releasing dose ([Johansen et al., 1999]). This makes it functionally clean — you get the anabolic GH/IGF-1 axis activation without the stress-hormone and mammary-tissue side effects that plague GHRP-2 and GHRP-6. Ipamorelin has an in vivo half-life of approximately 2 hours in humans ([Gobburu et al., 1999]). Each subcutaneous injection produces a single transient GH pulse peaking at 30-60 minutes. Typical dosing is 100-300 mcg SC, 1-3 times daily, almost always co-administered with a GHRH analog (MOD-GRF 1-29 or sermorelin) to exploit the well-documented ghrelin × GHRH synergy — the two pathways converge on pituitary somatotrophs through distinct second messengers and produce a GH pulse 3-5x greater than either agent alone ([Bowers et al., 1991]). Clinical development by Helsinn Therapeutics (licensed from Novo Nordisk) reached Phase 2B for post-operative ileus, where IV ipamorelin demonstrated faster recovery of gastrointestinal transit after abdominal surgery ([Beck et al., 2013]). Development for that indication was subsequently halted, and ipamorelin is not FDA-approved for any indication. It remains widely available as a compounding-pharmacy peptide and research-use reagent. See our Ipamorelin Dosage Guide and Reconstitution Tool for protocol specifics. The standard stack partner is documented at /compound/cjc-1295.", "activeIngredient": "Ipamorelin", "administrationRoute": "subcutaneous, intravenous (clinical only)", "mechanismOfAction": "Ipamorelin acts as a selective agonist at the growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHS-R1a), the same receptor activated by endogenous ghrelin - the \"hunger hormone\" secreted primarily by P/D1 cells in the gastric fundus. The distinguishing feature of ipamorelin among GHS peptides is its receptor specificity profile, which explains its clean side-effect profile. GHS-R1a agonism (Gq/11 / PLC / IP / Ca pathway) GHS-R1a is a Class A G-protein-coupled receptor expressed on pituitary somatotrophs, hypothalamic arcuate-nucleus neurons, and (at lower density) gastric cells, pancreatic islets, and cardiomyocytes Ligand binding activates Gq/11, triggering phospholipase-C, which cleaves PIP into IP and DAG IP mobilizes intracellular Ca; DAG activates PKC Net effect: depolarization of the somatotroph and rapid exocytosis of preformed GH granules GH rise is detectable within 15 minutes and peaks at 30-60 minutes post-injection Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide (Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH) that releases GH from pituitary somatotrophs with an EC of ~1.3 nM in vitro - comparable in potency and efficacy to GHRP-6, but with a dramatically different selectivity profile at secondary sites (Raun et al., 1998). The \"selective\" property - why ipamorelin is different from GHRP-2 / GHRP-6 / hexarelin All GHS peptides activate GHS-R1a, but the earlier generation (hexarelin, GHRP-6) also cross-reacted with adjacent receptors on corticotrophs and lactotrophs, producing: Cortisol elevation (via ACTH release) Prolactin elevation ACTH elevation In conscious swine, ipamorelin at doses more than 200-fold higher than its GH-releasing ED produced no significant elevation of ACTH, cortisol, FSH, LH, prolactin, or TSH, whereas GHRP-6 and GHRP-2 raised ACTH and cortisol (Raun et al., 1998). This selectivity - established in animal studies rather than a human comparison trial - is the main reason ipamorelin became the GHS peptide of choice for long-term biohacking protocols; the absence of cortisol elevation means it can be stacked without compromising recovery, immune function, or sleep architecture. Synergy with GHRH analogs (the foundation of the GHS stack) The standard biohacking protocol pairs ipamorelin with a GHRH analog (most commonly MOD-GRF 1-29 / CJC-1295 without DAC) because the two signaling pathways converge on the same pituitary cell through different second messengers: Dual activation produces a GH pulse several-fold larger than either agent alone - a well-documented synergy - and recruits a larger fraction of the total somatotroph reserve (Bowers, 1996). This is why GHRH-only or ghrelin-only protocols are suboptimal and nearly all clinical and research protocols use the combination. Pulsatile release preserves physiology Because ipamorelin clears in ~2 hours, each injection produces a discrete GH pulse that is reabsorbed into the body's normal pulsatile GH architecture. Between pulses, somatostatin (GHIH) can appropriately suppress GH - preserving negative feedback and preventing the receptor desensitization seen with sustained-release analogs like CJC-1295 with DAC. Downstream effects: IGF-1, body composition, sleep Acute GH pulse hepatic IGF-1 synthesis (peaks at ~24h post-dose) IGF-1 drives muscle protein synthesis, cartilage deposition, and lipolysis in adipose tissue Consistent dosing elevates steady-state IGF-1 by ~30-80% over baseline within 2-4 weeks (Sigalos & Pastuszak, 2018) Secondary effects: improved slow-wave sleep (GH pulses physiologically occur during SWS), accelerated wound/connective tissue repair, modest lean-mass gains in hypogonadal populations Secondary physiologic effects (ghrelin-receptor biology) Because GHS-R1a is expressed beyond the pituitary, chronic ipamorelin administration has minor effects on: Appetite - generally mild increase (much less than native ghrelin due to the shorter duration of action) Gastric motility - accelerates gastric emptying; this is why it was investigated for post-operative ileus Cardiovascular - cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory signaling in some animal models", "dosageForm": "vial", "legalStatus": "Not approved for human use (research chemical)", "warning": "For research purposes only. Not for human consumption." } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What makes ipamorelin different from other GHS peptides like GHRP-2 or GHRP-6?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Ipamorelin was the first GHS peptide shown to release growth hormone without elevating cortisol, prolactin, ACTH, LH, FSH, or TSH - in the original animal studies it remained selective even at doses more than 200-fold above its GH-releasing dose (Raun et al., 1998, in swine). Earlier GHS peptides (GHRP-2, GHRP-6, hexarelin) also stimulate corticotrophs and lactotrophs, producing cortisol and prolactin spikes that can compromise recovery, immune function, and (in men) breast tissue. This 'selective' property is the reason ipamorelin became the default GHS peptide for modern biohacking protocols. Note that this selectivity was established in animals, not in a human comparison trial." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do I need to stack ipamorelin with CJC-1295 or MOD-GRF 1-29?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Functionally, yes. Ipamorelin alone produces a modest GH pulse. Paired with a GHRH analog (MOD-GRF 1-29 / CJC-1295 without DAC), the GH pulse is several-fold larger - because the two signaling pathways converge on the same pituitary somatotroph through distinct second messengers (Gq/PLC/IP vs Gs/cAMP/PKA) and activate a much larger fraction of the GH reserve. Nearly all clinical and research protocols use the combination; standalone ipamorelin is primarily used in weeks 1-4 of a beginner protocol to confirm tolerance before adding the GHRH partner." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What's the correct ipamorelin dose and how often should I inject?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Therapeutic range is 100-300 mcg subcutaneously per injection, 1-3x daily. Common protocols: (1) Sleep / recovery focus - 200 mcg pre-bed once daily; (2) Body composition - 200 mcg + 100 mcg MOD-GRF 1-29 twice daily (pre-bed + morning fasted); (3) Advanced - 100-200 mcg tri-daily. Dose-response plateaus above 300 mcg per injection - more frequent smaller pulses outperform larger single doses. All doses must be in a fasted state (>=2 hours post-meal); elevated insulin blunts GH response by 50-70%." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Why must I inject ipamorelin in a fasted state?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Elevated insulin suppresses pituitary GH release through increased somatostatin tone and reduced somatotroph sensitivity. Post-meal dosing can cut the GH pulse by 50-70%. The two reliably fasted windows are pre-bed (2+ hours after the evening meal) and morning on waking (before the first meal). Carbohydrates and protein both elevate insulin - fat alone has minimal effect but a pure fasted window is cleanest. Alcohol independently suppresses GH; avoid within 4 hours of dosing." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How long does it take to see results from ipamorelin?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Effects appear on different timelines: (1) Sleep quality and deeper SWS within 1-3 nights; (2) Recovery between training sessions within 1-2 weeks; (3) IGF-1 elevation measurable at 4 weeks (typically +30-80% over baseline with the ipamorelin + MOD-GRF stack); (4) Body composition changes (lean mass , visceral fat ) visible at 8-12 weeks with consistent dosing; (5) Connective tissue / injury repair acceleration within 4-6 weeks, often used alongside BPC-157 and TB-500. Note that effects are dose-dependent - 200 mcg once daily will produce subtler changes than the 2-3x daily stacked protocol." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the actual side effects of ipamorelin?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The cleanest profile of any GHS peptide. Common: injection site reactions, transient hunger (less than GHRP-6), vivid dreams, brief head-heaviness 10-30 min post-injection. Uncommon: mild water retention, hand paresthesias (early water-retention sign), joint stiffness as IGF-1 rises. Rare: insulin resistance at high chronic doses, carpal tunnel symptoms. Unlike GHRP-2/6, ipamorelin does NOT elevate cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH. Most side effects are dose-dependent - stay at or below 300 mcg per injection and cycle (8-12 weeks on / 4-6 weeks off) to minimize cumulative burden." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is ipamorelin safer than injecting actual growth hormone (somatropin)?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Mechanistically, yes - but with caveats. Ipamorelin amplifies the body's own pulsatile GH release via the pituitary, preserving negative feedback (somatostatin can still suppress GH between pulses) and physiologic pulse architecture. Exogenous somatropin bypasses the pituitary and produces tonic, non-pulsatile GH elevation, which carries a higher burden of insulin resistance, edema, and theoretical cancer-axis concerns. However, both share the GH/IGF-1 safety envelope: active malignancy, diabetic retinopathy, and pituitary tumors are absolute contraindications for both. Ipamorelin is NOT FDA-approved; somatropin is FDA-approved for specific indications. Neither is a replacement for the other - they occupy different therapeutic niches." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Does ipamorelin affect appetite or cause weight gain?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Mildly. Ipamorelin activates the same receptor (GHS-R1a) as ghrelin, which is involved in hunger signaling. In practice the appetite effect is much smaller than GHRP-6 because ipamorelin's ~2-hour half-life limits tonic activation of hypothalamic feeding neurons. Most users report minor evening hunger at the pre-bed dose - this can be managed by injecting 20-30 min before lights-out so sleep supersedes the appetite signal. Weight typically goes UP on ipamorelin due to (a) increased lean body mass from GH/IGF-1 elevation and (b) modest fluid retention; fat mass typically goes DOWN. Tracking body composition (DEXA or bioimpedance) is more useful than scale weight." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I combine ipamorelin with semaglutide, TRT, BPC-157, or other peptides?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, with different rationales. Semaglutide / tirzepatide: ipamorelin + MOD-GRF 1-29 preserves lean mass during the GLP-1-induced caloric deficit; this is a common recomposition stack. TRT: fully complementary - HPG and GH axes are independent; combined use is standard in integrative clinics. BPC-157 / TB-500: synergistic for connective tissue repair - GH/IGF-1 provides the systemic anabolic signal that BPC-157 local repair mechanisms can leverage. NAD+ / NMN: mitochondrial support for the increased protein synthesis demand. DO NOT stack with other ghrelin-receptor agonists (GHRP-2/6, hexarelin, MK-677) - redundant at the receptor - or with exogenous recombinant GH (mechanistically defeating)." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is ipamorelin legal and where does it come from?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Ipamorelin is not FDA-approved for any indication in the United States. Originally discovered at Novo Nordisk, it was later developed for post-operative ileus, but that program reached only a Phase 2 proof-of-concept trial that missed its primary endpoint (median time to first tolerated meal 25.3 h vs 32.6 h on placebo, p=0.15) and development was discontinued (Beck et al., 2014). It is sold as a research chemical (not for human use) and is also dispensed by some compounding pharmacies and anti-aging / integrative clinics on a prescription basis. Legal status for personal use varies by jurisdiction - always verify local regulations. Quality varies substantially between suppliers; third-party HPLC and mass-spec testing is the only way to verify identity and purity. See our Best Peptide Vendors 2026 guide for vetted sources." } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Organization", "@id": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co#organization", "name": "BodyHackGuide", "alternateName": "BHG", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/logo.png", "width": 512, "height": 512 }, "description": "Evidence-based research reference for peptides and nootropics. 124+ compound profiles, interactive dosing calculators, vendor price comparisons, and trust-scored vendor reviews scored on a public, reproducible methodology applied to every vendor. We earn a commission on purchases through some of our links.", "foundingDate": "2024", "founder": { "@id": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/about#person" }, "sameAs": [ "https://reddit.com/r/BodyHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/BrainHackGuide", "https://reddit.com/r/Biohackingher", "https://discord.gg/Mhq5UdRYBA" ], "knowsAbout": [ "Peptide research", "Nootropic research", "Biohacking", "Compound dosing", "Vendor transparency" ], "publishingPrinciples": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/editorial-standards", "ethicsPolicy": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/editorial-standards", "diversityPolicy": "https://www.bodyhackguide.co/editorial-standards" } ] ```