Ipamorelin
Growth Hormone Secretagogue (GHRP)researchAlso known as: IPA, NNC 26-0161
A highly selective growth hormone-releasing peptide (GHRP) that stimulates GH release with minimal impact on cortisol, prolactin, or appetite, making it the cleanest GHRP available.
Overview
Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide and growth hormone secretagogue that acts by mimicking ghrelin and binding to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R) in the pituitary gland. What distinguishes ipamorelin from other GHRPs (GHRP-2, GHRP-6, hexarelin) is its remarkable selectivity — it stimulates growth hormone release without significantly elevating cortisol, prolactin, or aldosterone levels, and does not strongly stimulate appetite. This clean side-effect profile makes it the most widely recommended GHRP for GH optimization. It is most commonly used in combination with Mod GRF 1-29 (CJC-1295 no DAC), known as the 'CJC/Ipa stack,' which is considered the gold standard peptide protocol for natural GH optimization in the anti-aging and biohacking communities.
Mechanism of Action
Ipamorelin works through: (1) Binding to the GHS-R1a (ghrelin receptor) on pituitary somatotrophs to initiate GH release; (2) Unlike other GHRPs, it does not significantly activate the GHS-R on adrenal cells (hence no cortisol spike) or lactotrophs (no prolactin increase); (3) Amplifies the natural GH pulse when combined with GHRH analogs through distinct but complementary signaling pathways; (4) Does not suppress the body's natural somatostatin feedback — GH release remains regulated; (5) Demonstrates dose-dependent GH release without a ceiling effect at typical doses; (6) Minimal ghrelin-mimetic appetite effects compared to GHRP-6.
Molecular Formula
C38H49N9O5
Molecular Weight
711.85 g/mol
Sequence
Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2
Dosage Protocols
Dose Range
100mcg – 200mcg
Frequency
1-3 times daily
Route
subcutaneous
Cycle Length
8-12 weeks on, 4 weeks off
Most popular protocol: 100-200mcg ipamorelin + 100mcg Mod GRF 1-29 before bed on empty stomach. For enhanced results, add morning and/or post-workout doses.
Source: Clinical guidance and community protocols
🧮 Personalized Dosage Calculator
💰 Estimated Pricing
Typical Supply
5mg vial
Last Updated
2026-02
Most selective GHRP. Research: $25-50. Telehealth: $120-300/mo. Minimal side effects. Best-tolerated GH secretagogue.
⚠️ Prices are estimates based on publicly available data and may vary significantly by vendor, location, and prescription status. This is not medical or financial advice.
Side Effects
| Effect | Severity |
|---|---|
| Head rush / flushing | mild |
| Injection site irritation | mild |
| Headache | mild |
| Lightheadedness | mild |
| Increased hunger | mild |
Pros & Cons
Cleanest GHRP — does not significantly raise cortisol, prolactin, or aldosterone
Minimal appetite stimulation compared to GHRP-6 and GHRP-2
Excellent synergy with GHRH analogs (Mod GRF 1-29) for amplified GH pulses
Very mild side effect profile — well tolerated by most users
Promotes deep sleep quality through enhanced nocturnal GH release
Requires subcutaneous injection, typically multiple times daily for best results
Must be taken in fasted state to avoid blunting GH release
Less potent GH release per injection compared to GHRP-6 or hexarelin
Not FDA-approved; quality depends on peptide source
Effects are subtle and gradual — not a replacement for exogenous HGH in terms of potency
Research Studies
🩸 Blood Work
IGF-1
Primary marker for GH secretagogue activity
Fasting Blood Glucose
GH elevation can impair insulin sensitivity
Fasting Insulin
Monitor insulin resistance
Cortisol
Ipamorelin is highly selective but baseline is useful
One of the most selective GHRPs — minimal effect on cortisol, prolactin, and appetite compared to GHRP-2/6. Still important to monitor IGF-1 and glucose.
Legal Status
Not FDA-approved. Available as a research chemical. Banned by WADA. Was in clinical development for post-surgical GI recovery but trials were not completed.
💬 Community Experiences
Share Your ExperienceSleep quality transformed — deep sleep increased by 40% per my Oura ring. Skin looks noticeably better and I'm recovering faster from workouts. Best GH secretagogue I've tried.
Stacked with CJC-1295 DAC. Good lean mass gains and improved body composition. Fat around midsection reduced. Not dramatic like exogenous GH but much cleaner feeling.
Recovery between training sessions improved a lot. Sleep is deeper. Minor water retention in the first week that resolved. Very clean peptide with minimal sides.
Subtle effects so far. Sleep might be slightly better. Haven't noticed major changes in skin or body comp yet. Will continue the full 3-month protocol before judging.
⚠️ Individual experiences may vary. These are user-submitted reports for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any peptide protocol.
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Related Peptides
Semaglutide
An FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist used for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management, producing significant weight loss of 15-17% body weight in clinical trials.
BPC-157
A 15-amino acid synthetic peptide derived from human gastric juice that promotes healing of tendons, ligaments, muscles, gut lining, and other tissues through multiple regenerative pathways.
Tirzepatide
A first-in-class dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist that produces up to 22.5% body weight loss, approved for type 2 diabetes and obesity management.
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The most popular growth hormone peptide combination, pairing a GHRH analog (CJC-1295) with a ghrelin mimetic (Ipamorelin) for synergistic GH release with minimal side effects.