How It Works
Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) that was first described in 1998 by Novo Nordisk. It consists of five amino acids (Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2) and acts as a selective agonist of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a), also known as the ghrelin receptor.
What sets Ipamorelin apart from other GH secretagogues like GHRP-6 and GHRP-2 is its remarkable selectivity. Studies have demonstrated that Ipamorelin stimulates GH release in a dose-dependent manner without significantly elevating ACTH, cortisol, prolactin, or aldosterone — even at doses far exceeding those needed for GH release. This selective profile makes it one of the best-tolerated GH peptides available.
Ipamorelin produces acute GH pulses that mimic natural pulsatile GH secretion. When combined with a GHRH analog such as CJC-1295 without DAC, the two peptides stimulate GH release through complementary pathways — GHRH receptor activation and ghrelin receptor activation — resulting in a synergistic and amplified GH pulse significantly greater than either peptide alone.
Benefits
- Selective GH release — does not significantly elevate cortisol, prolactin, or appetite
- Improved body composition — increased lean mass and reduced body fat
- Enhanced recovery — faster tissue repair and reduced muscle soreness
- Better sleep quality — deeper, more restorative sleep through GH optimization
- Anti-aging effects — improved skin, energy, and overall vitality
- Synergistic with GHRH peptides — particularly effective when stacked with CJC-1295
Side Effects
- Very well-tolerated with the cleanest side-effect profile among GH secretagogues
- Injection site reactions — redness, mild pain (common)
- Headache — occasional, usually transient
- Mild water retention — typically resolves after first 1-2 weeks
- Tingling or numbness — mild paresthesia in some users
- Light-headedness — occasionally reported immediately post-injection
- No significant cortisol or prolactin elevation at standard doses
Dosing Protocol
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard Dose | 100-300mcg per injection |
| Frequency | 1-2 times daily |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection |
| Timing | Bedtime (primary) and/or upon waking, on empty stomach |
| Cycle Length | 8-12 weeks on, 4 weeks off |
| Common Stack | Combined with CJC-1295 no DAC 100-200mcg at same times |
| Fasting | No food 2+ hours before or 30 minutes after injection |
What You Will Need
- Ipamorelin lyophilized vial (typically 2mg or 5mg)
- Bacteriostatic water (30mL)
- Insulin syringes (1mL, 29-31ga)
- Alcohol swabs
- Sharps container