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Ipamorelin

Natty
growth hormonesleepGHSselective agonistanti-agingsubcutaneous

What It Does

Stimulates growth hormone release without cortisol/prolactin effects. Improves sleep quality, recovery, and body composition. Minimal side effects.

Natty Status Classification

This peptide is generally considered within the natty realm by some in the fitness community, particularly when used for therapeutic healing purposes. However, opinions vary, and competitive natural bodybuilding organizations may have different stances. Always check your federation's specific rules if you compete.

Description

Selective GHS-R1a agonist pentapeptide. No cortisol/prolactin effects. Phase 2 trial failed. Not FDA-approved, removed from compounding list 2024. Limited human data.

Full Description

Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide (Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2) selective agonist of the ghrelin/growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a) derived from GHRP-1.

Highly selective for GH release without affecting cortisol, prolactin, ACTH, or acetylcholine at any dose (even 200-fold above ED50), distinguishing it from GHRP-2/GHRP-6.

Binds to GHSR on pituitary somatotroph cells, activating phospholipase C (PLC) to generate IP3 and DAG, mobilizing intracellular calcium and activating protein kinase C for GH vesicle exocytosis.

Preclinical studies showed dose-dependent increases in GH levels, longitudinal bone growth, and body weight gain in rats, though IGF-1 levels and bone markers remained unchanged.

Phase 2 clinical trials for post-operative ileus failed to show efficacy (no reduction in time to first meal vs placebo).

Limited clinical data on body composition effects in humans despite theoretical benefits.

Typical dosing: 100-300mcg subcutaneously 1-3x daily, preferably on empty stomach.

Best timing: pre-bed (aligns with natural GH surge, improves sleep quality), split dosing (AM fasted + pre-bed) for enhanced pulsatility.

Users report improved sleep quality within 2-4 weeks, with body composition changes over 3-6 months.

Cycling protocol: 8-12 weeks on, with 5-days-on/2-days-off weekly pattern to prevent receptor desensitization.

Minimal side effects: injection site reactions, mild headache, nausea (typically resolve in 1-2 weeks).

Does not suppress endogenous hormone production.

Not FDA-approved; removed from FDA Category 2 compounding list September 2024 due to nominator withdrawal.

FDA recommended against inclusion in 503A Bulks Regulation October 2024 due to insufficient safety data.

No longer available for compounding.

Banned by WADA for competitive sports.

What is Lyophilized Powder?

Lyophilized powder is a sterile, freeze-dried medication that must be reconstituted (mixed with a liquid solvent, like sterile water) before it can be injected. This process extends the drug's shelf life and stability, making it ideal for temperature-sensitive products. The lyophilization process removes water from the peptide in a frozen state through sublimation, which preserves the physical and chemical properties until it is needed.

Application Methods

  • Subcutaneous injection

Product Names

  • Ipamorelin Acetate
  • Ipamorelin Peptide

Benefits

  • Highly selective GH release without cortisol or prolactin elevation
  • No effect on ACTH, acetylcholine, or aldosterone
  • Minimal side effects compared to GHRP-2/GHRP-6
  • Improved sleep quality (deeper, more restorative sleep)
  • Does not suppress endogenous hormone production
  • Dose-dependent GH stimulation in preclinical studies
  • Enhanced longitudinal bone growth and body weight in animal models
  • Injection site flexibility (subcutaneous administration)
  • Reduced cisplatin-induced weight loss by 24% (animal study)
  • Theoretical body composition benefits (limited human data)

Dosage Levels

  • Standard dose: 100-300mcg per injection, 1-3x daily (subcutaneous)
  • Beginners/anti-aging: 200mcg once daily at bedtime
  • Fat loss/general support: 200-300mcg twice daily (AM + pre-bed)
  • Performance/recovery: 300mcg three times daily (AM + post-workout + pre-bed)
  • Timing: On empty stomach, 30-60 min before/after meals
  • Best time: 2 hours before bedtime for sleep and natural GH alignment
  • Split dosing: Space 6-8 hours apart to mimic natural GH pulses
  • Cycle: 8-12 weeks on, with 5-days-on/2-days-off weekly pattern
  • Results timeline: Sleep improvements 2-4 weeks, body composition 3-6 months

Research

Where to Buy

*Peptides are stored in form and need to be reconstituted with sterile bacteriostatic water before use.

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MK-677

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Increases lean muscle mass, bone density, and deep sleep quality. Enhances recovery and tissue healing. Risk of blood sugar issues.

CJC-1295

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Increases growth hormone and IGF-1 for 6+ days per injection. Improves body composition, muscle recovery, and fat metabolism. Weekly dosing.
Last Updated: 10/19/2025