What is Ipamorelin?
Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) and ghrelin mimetic. It is a pentapeptide (5 amino acids) that stimulates GH release by binding to the ghrelin/GHS receptor (GHSR) in the pituitary gland.
What distinguishes Ipamorelin from other GHRPs (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptides) is its selectivity. Research has shown it produces a clean GH pulse with minimal effects on cortisol, prolactin, or appetite — side effects commonly seen with GHRP-2 and GHRP-6.
This selectivity makes Ipamorelin particularly valuable in research applications where isolated GH effects are desired.
Quick Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Peptide Amount | 10mg |
| Recommended BAC Water | 2.5mL |
| Resulting Concentration | 2mg/mL (2000mcg/mL) |
| Typical Research Dose | 200-300mcg |
| Frequency | 2-3x daily |
| Timing | Fasted state preferred |
| Research Duration | 8-16 weeks |
Reconstitution Guide
Materials Needed
- Ipamorelin 10mg lyophilized vial
- Bacteriostatic water (BAC water)
- Insulin syringes (U-100, 29-31 gauge)
- Alcohol swabs
- Sharps container
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Prepare workspace — Clean environment, gather supplies, wash hands.
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Clean vial stoppers — Wipe both vials with alcohol. Let dry completely.
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Draw BAC water — Draw 2.5mL bacteriostatic water.
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Add to peptide — Inject slowly along inner wall of vial.
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Dissolve — Ipamorelin dissolves quickly (1-2 minutes). Gentle swirl only.
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Verify clarity — Solution must be clear and colorless.
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Label and refrigerate — Date the vial and store immediately at 2-8°C.
Dosage Protocol
Concentration Calculations
With 10mg peptide in 2.5mL BAC water:
- Concentration: 2mg/mL = 2000mcg/mL
- Per unit (U-100 syringe): 20mcg per unit
Common Dose Calculations
| Desired Dose | Draw Volume | Syringe Units |
|---|---|---|
| 100mcg | 0.05mL | 5 units |
| 200mcg | 0.10mL | 10 units |
| 300mcg | 0.15mL | 15 units |
Suggested Research Protocols
Standard Protocol:
- Dose: 200-300mcg
- Frequency: 2x daily (morning + bedtime)
- Duration: 12-16 weeks
Saturation Protocol:
- Dose: 100mcg
- Frequency: 3x daily
- Duration: 8-12 weeks
- Note: More frequent, lower doses
Combined Protocol (with CJC-1295 no DAC):
- Ipamorelin: 200mcg
- CJC-1295 no DAC: 100mcg
- Frequency: 2-3x daily
- Duration: 12-16 weeks
Optimal Timing
For maximum GH response:
| Time | Rationale |
|---|---|
| Morning (fasted) | Low insulin, optimal response |
| Post-workout | Exercise synergy |
| Before bed | Aligns with natural GH pulse |
Avoid: Within 2 hours of meals (elevated insulin/glucose blunts response)
Injection Guide
Subcutaneous Administration
- Wipe injection site with alcohol
- Pinch skin fold at abdomen, thigh, or arm
- Insert needle at 45-90° angle
- Inject slowly
- Hold 5 seconds before withdrawing
Site Rotation
Rotate systematically:
- Abdomen (left/right of navel)
- Outer thighs
- Upper arms
Storage Requirements
Lyophilized (Powder)
- Temperature: -20°C (-4°F) or colder
- Duration: 2+ years
- Conditions: Dry, dark environment
Reconstituted
- Temperature: 2-8°C (36-46°F)
- Duration: 3-4 weeks
- Conditions: Refrigerated, protected from light
Research Considerations
Mechanism of Action
Ipamorelin’s selectivity stems from:
- GHSR binding: Activates ghrelin receptor specifically
- Dose-dependent response: Linear GH release relationship
- No cortisol increase: Unlike GHRP-2/GHRP-6
- No prolactin increase: Clean hormonal profile
- Minimal appetite stimulation: Unlike other GHRPs
Comparison to Other GHRPs
| Peptide | GH Release | Cortisol | Prolactin | Hunger |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ipamorelin | +++ | − | − | − |
| GHRP-2 | ++++ | + | + | ++ |
| GHRP-6 | +++ | + | + | +++ |
| Hexarelin | ++++ | ++ | ++ | + |
Synergistic Combinations
Ipamorelin + GHRH Analog: Research shows combining a GHRP with GHRH produces synergistic GH release:
- Ipamorelin + Sermorelin
- Ipamorelin + CJC-1295 (no DAC)
- Ipamorelin + Mod GRF 1-29
The combination often produces 2-3x the GH response of either alone.
Saturation Dose
Research indicates approximately 100mcg may represent a saturation dose per administration:
- Higher single doses may not proportionally increase GH
- Multiple smaller doses throughout day may be more effective
- Individual response varies
Sourcing for Research
Source from verified suppliers that provide third-party testing and certificates of analysis (COA) for each batch. Compare purity documentation, shipping conditions, and batch traceability before purchasing research materials.
Scientific References
- Raun K, et al. “Ipamorelin, the first selective growth hormone secretagogue.” Eur J Endocrinol. 1998;139:552-561.
- Johansen PB, et al. “Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of ipamorelin in beagle dogs.” Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet. 1999;24:65-69.
- Anderson LL, et al. “Growth hormone secretagogue receptors.” Vitam Horm. 2005;71:373-402.
Last updated: December 01, 2024
Disclaimer: This information is for educational and research purposes only. Ipamorelin is a research chemical not intended for human consumption. Always follow applicable laws and institutional guidelines.