Ipamorelin
Also known as: NNC 26-0161
Overview
Ipamorelin is a selective synthetic pentapeptide growth hormone secretagogue, developed as part of a major chemistry program targeting GHRP analogs. Unlike older GHRPs, ipamorelin is notable for its high selectivity for GH release without significantly stimulating cortisol or ACTH secretion, even at doses over 200 times the effective GH-releasing dose. This selectivity makes it one of the most widely used GHRPs in research and clinical peptide protocols.
Mechanism of Action
Ipamorelin acts on growth hormone secretagogue receptor type 1a (GHS-R1a), the ghrelin receptor, located in the hypothalamus and pituitary. It forms reversible non-covalent interactions via hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces, inducing conformational changes that activate transcription factors driving GH synthesis. In vitro, ipamorelin releases GH from primary rat pituitary cells with EC50 = 1.3 ± 0.4 nM, comparable to GHRP-6. It produces pulsatile GH secretion in a physiological pattern without stimulating prolactin or adrenal hormones.
Potential Benefits
- Selective and potent GH release without ACTH/cortisol elevation
- GH levels may reach up to 80 mIU/l (~26.6 ng/ml) in studies
- Pulsatile, physiological GH release pattern
- Improved body composition, lean mass gains
- Enhanced fat metabolism via GH/IGF-1 axis
- Improved sleep quality reported anecdotally
- Better safety profile than non-selective GHRPs
Dosage Protocols
The following reflects doses used in published research studies. This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| Typical Range | 200-300 mcg/dose, 1-3x/day |
| Beginner | 100-200 mcg once daily at bedtime |
| Intermediate | 200-300 mcg twice daily (AM + bedtime) |
| Advanced | 300 mcg 3x/day (morning, pre-workout, bedtime) |
| Cycle Duration | 8-12 weeks |
| Cycle Off | 4-8 weeks |
Dosed 30-60 minutes before sleep to amplify natural nocturnal GH pulse. Fasted state enhances response. Avoid dosing after high-fat meals.
Use our Reconstitution Calculator to determine exact syringe units for your protocol.
Routes of Administration
Subcutaneous Injection High — rapid GH release within 15–30 minutes
Standard method. Typical dose 100–300 mcg, 1–3x daily (before bed and/or morning). Best on empty stomach.
Read our full Routes of Administration Guide for detailed comparison of all delivery methods.
Stacking Protocols
Popular research stacks involving Ipamorelin:
GH Optimization Stack
The most popular GH-boosting combination. Ipamorelin provides selective GH pulse stimulation while CJC-1295 (non-DAC) amplifies and extends the release. 100 mcg each, 1–3x daily before bed.
Anti-Aging GH Stack
Growth hormone optimization with longevity support. Ipamorelin/CJC-1295 for GH/IGF-1 elevation, Epitalon for telomere maintenance.
Explore our complete Peptide Stacking Guide for more combinations and safety considerations.
Reconstitution
| Typical Vial Size | 2mg, 5mg |
|---|---|
| BAC Water | 1-2ml per 2mg vial |
| Storage | Refrigerate at 2-8°C after reconstitution |
| Shelf Life | 28-30 days refrigerated; lyophilized stable 24+ months at -20°C |
Need exact syringe measurements?
Amino Acid Sequence
Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2
Side Effects & Safety
- Increased appetite through ghrelin receptor activity
- Potential water retention
- Headache or flushing at high doses
- Injection site reactions
Safety & Contraindications
This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any peptide.
Active Malignancy
Uncontrolled Diabetes Mellitus
Severe Cardiac Disease
Pregnancy / Lactation
Bleeding Disorders
Active Skin Infection at Injection Site
Drug Interactions
- Insulin / Oral Hypoglycemics:
FDA Safety Information
FDA Category 2 concerns: immunogenicity, unnatural amino acids, serious adverse events including death (IV for gastric motility).
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-Life | ~2 hours |
|---|---|
| Storage | Store lyophilized peptide at -20°C (long-term) or 2-8°C (short-term, under 30 days). Reconstituted: refrigerate at 2-8°C and use within 28-30 days. Protect from light. Do not freeze reconstituted solution. |
Synergistic Compounds
The following compounds have been studied alongside Ipamorelin for potential complementary or synergistic effects:
Learn More
References & Further Reading
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