5-Amino-1MQ vs Ipamorelin

Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.

5-Amino-1MQIpamorelin
CategoryPeptidesPeptides
Standard DoseResearch indicates 50-150 mg daily via oral administration, typically divided into 1-2 doses.Research indicates 200-300 mcg administered 1-3 times daily via subcutaneous injection.
TimingMorning dosing preferred. Can be taken with or without food.Best administered at bedtime for synergy with natural GH peak. Also effective upon waking and post-workout. Always on empty stomach.
Cycle Duration8-12 week cycles.12-24 week cycles with 4-8 week breaks.
Evidence Levelanimal_plus_anecdotalmoderate_human
A

5-Amino-1MQ

Peptides

Mechanism

5-Amino-1MQ is a small molecule inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of a methyl group from S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) to nicotinamide, generating 1-methylnicotinamide (1-MNA). By inhibiting NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ increases intracellular NAD+ levels, reduces 1-MNA production, suppresses lipogenesis in adipocytes, and modulates the methionine-homocysteine cycle. In vivo, it significantly reduces body weight, white adipose mass, and adipocyte size through enhanced energy expenditure and altered lipid metabolism.

Standard Dosing

Research indicates 50-150 mg daily via oral administration, typically divided into 1-2 doses.

Timing

Morning dosing preferred. Can be taken with or without food.

Cycle Duration

8-12 week cycles.

Side Effects

  • Mild GI discomfort
  • Headache
  • Diarrhea (uncommon)
  • Nausea at higher doses

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Severe hepatic impairment
  • Active cancer (NAD+ modulation concern)

Best Stacking Partners

MOTS-cAOD-9604TesofensineSemaglutide
B

Ipamorelin

Peptides

Mechanism

Ipamorelin is a pentapeptide (Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2) that acts as the first selective growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a/ghrelin receptor) agonist. Unlike other GHRPs, it selectively stimulates GH release without significantly affecting ACTH, cortisol, prolactin, or aldosterone — even at doses 200-fold above the ED50 for GH release. This selectivity profile is comparable to GHRH itself but operates through the distinct ghrelin receptor on pituitary somatotrophs.

Standard Dosing

Research indicates 200-300 mcg administered 1-3 times daily via subcutaneous injection.

Timing

Best administered at bedtime for synergy with natural GH peak. Also effective upon waking and post-workout. Always on empty stomach.

Cycle Duration

12-24 week cycles with 4-8 week breaks.

Side Effects

  • Head rush post-injection
  • Mild hunger increase (less than GHRP-6)
  • Water retention (mild)
  • Tingling in extremities
  • Injection site irritation

Contraindications

  • Active cancer
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Best Stacking Partners

CJC-1295 (no DAC)BPC-157TB-500

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