Ipamorelin
NNC 26-0161
Ipamorelin is a highly selective pentapeptide growth hormone secretagogue that acts on the ghrelin/GHS receptor to stimulate pulsatile GH release from the anterior pituitary. Developed by Novo Nordisk in the 1990s, it is distinguished from other GHRPs by its remarkable selectivity, producing GH release without significantly affecting cortisol, prolactin, or aldosterone levels. It is considered the most well-tolerated GHRP available and is a cornerstone of modern GH optimization research protocols.
Mechanism of Action
Selective growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR) agonist. Stimulates pituitary GH release with minimal effect on cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH. One of the most selective ghrelin mimetics available, producing clean GH pulses without appetite stimulation.
Research Protocols
For research purposes only. Not medical advice.
Research protocols use 100-300mcg 2-3 times daily via subcutaneous injection. Best administered on an empty stomach. Often combined with CJC-1295 for synergistic GH release. Cycles of 8-16 weeks.
Research Notes
Clinical Research Status
Ipamorelin completed Phase 2 clinical trials for post-operative ileus (gut motility recovery) but was not advanced to approval. Published human studies confirm dose-dependent GH release with minimal effect on other pituitary hormones. It remains widely used in clinical research and anti-aging medicine despite lacking FDA approval for any indication.
Key Published Findings
Studies demonstrate that Ipamorelin produces GH release comparable to GHRP-6 and GHRP-2 at equivalent doses without the cortisol and prolactin elevation seen with those compounds. Research shows it does not significantly stimulate appetite (unlike GHRP-6 and hexarelin) due to weaker ghrelin receptor activation in appetite centers. Clinical trials documented improved bowel recovery time in post-surgical patients.
Safety Profile
Ipamorelin has the cleanest side effect profile among all GHRPs, with minimal reports of water retention, hunger stimulation, or cortisol elevation at standard doses. Transient headache, flushing, and mild dizziness may occur in the first 1-2 weeks of use. No significant adverse cardiovascular or metabolic effects have been documented in published trials at therapeutic doses.
Drug Interactions & Contraindications
Should not be used concurrently with somatostatin or its analogs. Caution advised when combining with insulin or insulin secretagogues due to GH's diabetogenic effects. Contraindicated in active malignancy and untreated pituitary tumors. May reduce efficacy of glucocorticoids through GH-mediated cortisol suppression at high doses.
Comparison to Related Compounds
Compared to GHRP-6, Ipamorelin produces equivalent GH release without significant hunger or cortisol elevation. Compared to GHRP-2, it has slightly lower maximal GH output but substantially fewer side effects. Hexarelin produces the highest GH response among GHRPs but causes significant cortisol/prolactin release and desensitizes within weeks, making Ipamorelin preferred for longer protocols.
Community Observations
Standard research dosing is 100-300mcg subcutaneously 1-3 times daily, typically combined with Modified GRF(1-29) at equal doses for synergistic GH release. Most commonly administered before sleep to augment the natural nocturnal GH pulse. Users consistently report improved sleep quality, recovery, and gradual body composition improvements with minimal side effects over 3-6 month protocols.
Half-Life
~2 hours
Reconstitution
Bacteriostatic water (BAC)
Storage
Lyophilized
Refrigerate 2-8C up to 24 months.
Reconstituted
Refrigerate 2-8C. Use within 21 days.
US Legal Status
Also Known As
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