Ipamorelin is a selective GH secretagogue and ghrelin receptor agonist that stimulates GH release while inhibiting somatostatin. It supports muscle growth, fat metabolism, bone health, and tissue repair without activating stress responses.
Ipamorelin
Also known as: NNC 26-0161
Overview
Benefits
- Enhanced bone growth
- Muscle development
- Joint health
- Vascular health
- Digestive support
- Anti-aging
Consider This Peptide If You Want To
- Naturally boost GH for muscle, fat loss, and recovery
- Improve sleep quality and overall well-being
Dosage & Administration
Dosage Guidelines
Recommended Dosage
• Amount:100 mcg
• Frequency:weekdays
• Duration:8 weeks
• Rest Period:8 weeks
• Time of Day:morning
• Ingestion:subcutaneous
Administration Routes:Subcutaneous
Research Findings on Dosage:
• Subcutaneous Injection:
◦ Commonly Reported Dosage: 100 mcg (base dose) or 1 mg/kg up to 200-400 mcg daily, 5 days on, 2 days off
◦ Duration: 8-12 week cycles followed by a 4-8 week break
• Administration Notes:
◦ Administer on an empty stomach 30 minutes before eating/2 hours after eating to enhance GH release.
◦ May be dosed ½ before workout and ½ before bedtime
◦ Best to titrate up to full dosage while watching for potential histamine response
Mechanism of Action
Mechanism of Action
How this peptide works in the body
GH Pathway Activation:
Ipamorelin binds selectively to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a) on cells in the anterior pituitary, mimicking ghrelin's GH-stimulating effects. This activation induces GH secretion via adenylate cyclase stimulation, leading to increased cyclic AMP (cAMP) production, which amplifies GH release. Additionally, elevated GH levels stimulate hepatic IGF-1 synthesis, promoting muscle growth, tissue repair, and metabolic balance.
Muscle and Bone Support:
Ipamorelin activates the mTOR signaling pathway, enhancing protein synthesis and muscle hypertrophy while preventing muscle catabolism. It also increases osteoblast activity, driving bone mineralization through GH- and IGF-1-mediated pathways, making it beneficial for bone density preservation and fracture recovery.
Metabolic Regulation:
By activating hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), Ipamorelin enhances lipolysis and fat oxidation, supporting fat loss and improved body composition. It also optimizes glucose homeostasis by improving insulin sensitivity, reducing excess blood sugar accumulation, and enhancing metabolic efficiency.
Collagen Synthesis:
Ipamorelin upregulates collagen gene expression via the JAK/STAT pathway, stimulating fibroblast activity and extracellular matrix remodeling. This promotes skin elasticity, joint lubrication, and cartilage repair, reducing degenerative tissue breakdown and enhancing wound healing.
Digestive Support:
By activating ghrelin receptors in the enteric nervous system, Ipamorelin modulates gastrointestinal motility, improving smooth muscle contractions in the digestive tract. This effect enhances digestion, gut health, and nutrient absorption, making it beneficial for individuals with gastric motility disorders.
Consider Stacking With
- Any GHRH (CJC-1295, MOD-GRF-1295, Tesamorelin)
- BPC-157
- TB-4
- AOD-9604
- PEG-MGF
- 5-Amino-1MQ
- Semaglutide/Tirzepatide
- Kisspeptin-10
Side Effects & Cautions
Common Side Effects
- Injection site redness, itchiness, swelling
- Peripheral edema
- Facial flushing
Research & References
Research Highlights
Bone and Muscle Catabolism Counteraction: Studies show Ipamorelin reduces the negative effects of glucocorticoids on bone density and muscle strength in animal models.
Angiogenesis Potential: As a ghrelin mimetic, Ipamorelin may stimulate blood vessel formation, though further research is needed.
Collagen Synthesis: Ghrelin-related studies suggest improved cartilage repair and skin health, with Ipamorelin potentially sharing these benefits.
References
Raun, K., et al. "Ipamorelin: A selective growth hormone secretagogue." Journal of Endocrinology, 1998
Andersen, N. B., et al. "Effects of Ipamorelin on bone formation in adult rats." Bone, 2001
Svensson, J., et al. "Ipamorelin and bone mineral content in female rats." Journal of Clinical Endocrinology, 2000
Chen, H., et al. "Role of ghrelin in cartilage repair." Arthritis Research & Therapy, 2012
Gao, Y., et al. "Angiogenesis and ghrelin." Circulation Research, 2008