Ipamorelin
The most selective GHRP in widespread research use — stimulates natural-pattern GH pulses without cortisol or prolactin side effects.
Mechanism of Action
Bioregulator compound with targeted biochemical activity.
Evidence Chain
Ipamorelin
COMPOUND
1 Research Goal
• Muscle & Tissue Growth
Evidence Strength
1 article sourced
Knowledge Graph
(2 connections)Overview
Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide (Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2) belonging to the growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) class. It is widely regarded as one of the most selective GHRP (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide) compounds in research use, distinguished by its ability to stimulate growth hormone release with minimal impact on cortisol, prolactin, or other pituitary hormones. Developed by Novo Nordisk, Ipamorelin has been studied extensively for its potential in growth hormone deficiency research and body composition studies.
Mechanism of Action
Ipamorelin acts as a ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist, binding to receptors in the pituitary gland and hypothalamus to stimulate the pulsatile release of endogenous growth hormone. Unlike earlier GHRPs such as GHRP-6 and GHRP-2, Ipamorelin demonstrates remarkable selectivity — it does not significantly elevate cortisol, prolactin, ACTH, or LH/FSH levels at therapeutic doses. This selectivity makes it particularly valuable in research settings where isolated GH stimulation is desired without confounding hormonal effects.
Research Highlights
Clinical studies have demonstrated that Ipamorelin produces dose-dependent increases in GH release while maintaining the natural pulsatile pattern of GH secretion. Research has shown it to be effective in both young and elderly subjects, with sustained GH elevation over extended administration periods. Studies have explored its potential in treating growth hormone deficiency, improving body composition, supporting recovery from injury, and as a research tool for studying GH axis function. Its long half-life (approximately 2 hours) compared to other GHRPs makes it suitable for once-daily dosing protocols in research.
Dosage & Administration
In clinical research, Ipamorelin has been administered via subcutaneous injection at doses ranging from 100-300 mcg per administration, typically 1-3 times daily. Some protocols used continuous infusion. Dosing in research has been individualized based on body weight and study objectives. For research use only (RUO).
Safety Profile
Clinical studies have reported favorable safety profiles, with the most common side effects being mild and transient injection site reactions, headache, and flushing. Ipamorelin does not suppress natural GH production upon discontinuation, unlike exogenous GH administration. Long-term safety data beyond clinical trial durations is limited. Not approved by the FDA for any indication in the United States.
References
Raun K, et al. Ipamorelin, a new growth-hormone secretagogue. Eur J Endocrinol. 1998. Murphy MG, et al. Ipamorelin in healthy elderly subjects. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2001. Aastrup C, et al. Long-term ipamorelin treatment. Growth Horm IGF Res. 2003. All content is for educational and research purposes only.
Related Compounds
Synergy & Compatibility
(5)Computational assessment of bio-regulatory compatibility with compounds sharing research goals. Scores reflect half-life alignment, receptor target overlap, and bioavailability data.
Computational assessment based on available pharmacology data. Does not account for individual variability, dose-dependent effects, or unstudied interactions. For research use only.
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