GH Secretagogues Anti-aging Under research

Ipamorelin

Also known as: NNC 26-0161, Ipamorelina

Ipamorelin is a pentapeptide growth hormone (GH) secretagogue that acts as a selective agonist of the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a). It is regarded as one of the "cleanest" secretagogues because it stimulates GH release with minimal impact on cortisol and prolactin, unlike GHRP-6 or GHRP-2. It is used in research and in anti-aging/sports medicine, often combined with a GHRH analog (CJC-1295 or MOD GRF 1-29) to enhance the GH pulse.

Mechanism of action

Ipamorelin mimics ghrelin by binding to the GHS-R1a receptor in the pituitary and hypothalamus.

GHS-R1a agonism: activates the phospholipase C pathway, raising intracellular calcium and triggering a GH pulse from somatotrophs.
Selectivity: minimal increase in ACTH/cortisol or prolactin at typical doses.
Synergy with GHRH: combined with CJC-1295/MOD GRF 1-29 it produces GH release greater than either alone.

Uses & indications

Research on the GH/IGF-1 axis and selective secretagogues.
Anti-aging and body composition (off-label use).
Recovery and sleep quality reported by users.

Effects

Intended effects: pulsatile increase in GH and IGF-1, improved recovery, possible deeper sleep.

Adverse effects: generally mild: headache, dizziness, flushing, slight fluid retention and transient hunger. Far less hunger than GHRP-6.

Considerations & contraindications

Not approved for human use by FDA/EMA; it is a research compound.
May raise glucose and reduce insulin sensitivity with prolonged use.
Contraindicated in active cancer (GH/IGF-1 may promote proliferation).

Regulatory approval

Not approved by the FDA or EMA. Sold exclusively as a research chemical.

Dosage

In research, doses of 100–300 mcg, 1–3 times daily, subcutaneously, have been used. This is not a clinical recommendation.

Storage

Lyophilized: 2–8 °C protected from light. Reconstituted with bacteriostatic water: refrigerate (2–8 °C) and use within 2–4 weeks.

Technical data

Regulatory status Under research

Molecular weight 711.85 Da

Half-life ~2 horas

Administration routes Subcutánea