Peptides

Ipamorelin

Evidence: moderate_human

Mechanism of Action

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.

Dosing Protocol

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

Maintenance: Research indicates 100-200 mcg at bedtime for maintenance.

Administration: subcutaneous

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

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

Notes

Ipamorelin is widely considered the cleanest GH secretagogue due to its unique selectivity — no cortisol spike, no prolactin increase, minimal hunger stimulation. The CJC-1295 no-DAC + Ipamorelin combination exploits synergy between GHRH (hypothalamic) and GHRP (pituitary) pathways for amplified GH release. Saturation dose is approximately 1 mcg/kg. Commonly prescribed by anti-aging and optimization clinics as a first-line GH optimization peptide.

Stacking

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

Interactions

  • CJC-1295 (no DAC) [LOW] — Synergistic — the gold standard GH stack. GHRH + GHRP together produce amplified GH pulse.
  • Insulin [HIGH] — GH antagonizes insulin; monitor glucose.
  • GHRP-6 [LOW] — Can be interchanged but not typically stacked; GHRP-6 causes more hunger.

Contraindications

  • Active cancer
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Side Effects

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

Key Papers

  • 10.1530/eje.0.1390552
  • 10.1002/rco2.9

Source Quality

Compounding pharmacy (503A/503B) or research-grade supplier. One of the most commonly compounded peptides.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. BioAccelera Labs does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before using any compound.

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