Ipamorelin

Ipamorelin is a pentapeptide growth hormone secretagogue that mimics the action of ghrelin at the pituitary level to stimulate growth hormone release. What distinguishes Ipamorelin from other GH secretagogues is its remarkable selectivity. Unlike earlier secretagogues such as GHRP-6 and GHRP-2, Ipamorelin does not significantly affect cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH levels at typical doses. This selectivity translates to fewer side effects and a more targeted physiological response. Developed in the 1990s, Ipamorelin has become one of the most popular peptides for research into growth hormone optimization due to its clean effect profile and good tolerability.

Ipamorelin achieves its effects through selective receptor activation: **Ghrelin Receptor Agonism**: Ipamorelin binds to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R) on pituitary somatotrophs, stimulating the release of stored growth hormone. **Selective Activation**: Unlike non-selective secretagogues, Ipamorelin's binding characteristics minimize activation of pathways leading to cortisol or prolactin release. **Dose-Dependent Response**: GH release increases proportionally with dose up to a saturation point, after which additional peptide provides no further benefit. **Synergy with GHRH**: When combined with GHRH or analogs like CJC-1295, Ipamorelin produces amplified GH release greater than either alone. **Preserved Pulsatility**: Ipamorelin maintains the natural pulsatile pattern of GH secretion, with releases occurring primarily during administration rather than continuously.

Ipamorelin has been studied in various research contexts: **Selectivity Studies**: Comparative studies with GHRP-6 and GHRP-2 demonstrated that Ipamorelin produces equivalent GH release with significantly less impact on cortisol, prolactin, and appetite-stimulating effects. **Dose-Response Research**: Studies established optimal dosing parameters showing saturation of GH response at approximately 1mcg/kg, with higher doses providing no additional GH release. **Combination Studies**: Research combining Ipamorelin with GHRH analogs showed synergistic effects, with GH release 2-3 times greater than either peptide alone. **Safety Profile**: Clinical investigations have shown excellent tolerability with no serious adverse events attributed to Ipamorelin. **Bone Research**: Some studies have explored Ipamorelin's potential for bone health through GH/IGF-1 pathway activation.

Research protocols for Ipamorelin typically include: **Standard Dosing**: 200-300mcg per injection, administered 2-3 times daily. **Saturation Dose**: Research suggests 1mcg/kg body weight approximates the saturation dose for GH release. **Timing**: Commonly administered in the morning upon waking, post-workout, and before bed to optimize GH pulsatility. **Combination Protocol**: When used with CJC-1295 (no DAC), typical ratios are 1:1 (e.g., 100mcg of each). **Administration**: Subcutaneous injection on an empty stomach for optimal effect. Food, particularly fats, may blunt GH response.

Ipamorelin is known for its favorable side effect profile: **Common**: - Injection site reactions (mild, temporary) - Head rush or flushing post-injection - Occasional headache - Temporary dizziness **Less Common**: - Mild water retention - Increased hunger (less than GHRP-6) - Tingling sensations **Notable Absences**: Unlike other secretagogues, Ipamorelin typically does not cause: - Significant cortisol elevation - Prolactin increase - Intense hunger - Lethargy **Contraindications**: Active cancer, pituitary disorders, pregnancy.