Ipamorelin vs LL-37 (Cathelicidin)

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

IpamorelinLL-37 (Cathelicidin)
CategoryPeptidesPeptides
Standard DoseResearch indicates 200-300 mcg administered 1-3 times daily via subcutaneous injection.Research indicates 50-100 mcg daily via subcutaneous injection for immune support.
TimingBest administered at bedtime for synergy with natural GH peak. Also effective upon waking and post-workout. Always on empty stomach.Morning administration preferred for immune support. Topical application directly to wound sites.
Cycle Duration12-24 week cycles with 4-8 week breaks.4-8 week cycles. Short-term use preferred due to limited long-term safety data.
Evidence Levelmoderate_humananimal_plus_anecdotal
A

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

Mechanism

LL-37 is a 37-residue amphipathic helical antimicrobial peptide, the only human cathelicidin, that kills bacteria by forming tetrameric channels that perforate cytoplasmic membranes. Beyond direct antimicrobial activity, it modulates innate immunity through formyl-peptide receptor 2 (FPR2), induces chemotaxis of neutrophils and monocytes, upregulates CXCR4 and IL-8, and neutralizes bacterial endotoxins (LPS). It also promotes wound healing through keratinocyte migration and angiogenesis.

Standard Dosing

Research indicates 50-100 mcg daily via subcutaneous injection for immune support.

Timing

Morning administration preferred for immune support. Topical application directly to wound sites.

Cycle Duration

4-8 week cycles. Short-term use preferred due to limited long-term safety data.

Side Effects

  • Injection site pain and redness
  • Localized inflammation
  • Potential mast cell activation

Contraindications

  • Active autoimmune conditions (particularly lupus — LL-37 is implicated in SLE pathophysiology)
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Psoriasis (may exacerbate)

Best Stacking Partners

KPVThymosin Alpha-1BPC-157

Not sure which is right for you?

Take our free assessment to get personalized recommendations based on your health goals, current stack, and biomarkers.

Get Your Free Protocol →or take the assessment →