Ipamorelin for Growth Hormone Optimization — Performance & Recovery
Selective growth hormone secretagogue (ghrelin mimetic) with minimal cortisol and prolactin release, considered the cleanest GH-releasing peptide.
Overview
Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide growth hormone secretagogue that selectively stimulates GH release from the anterior pituitary by mimicking ghrelin at the GHS-R1a receptor. Unlike other GH secretagogues (GHRP-6, GHRP-2, hexarelin), ipamorelin produces minimal increases in cortisol, prolactin, and ACTH, making it the 'cleanest' GH-releasing peptide available. Raun et al. (European Journal of Endocrinology, 1998) demonstrated dose-dependent GH release in swine with high selectivity. Phase 2 clinical data in post-surgical patients (Goetze et al., Growth Horm IGF Res, 2009) showed accelerated GI recovery. Hansen et al. (European Journal of Endocrinology, 1999) confirmed GH-specific release without significant cortisol or prolactin elevation in healthy human subjects. Ipamorelin preserves the natural pulsatile GH secretion pattern. NOT FDA-approved. Widely used in anti-aging and sports medicine clinics for body composition, recovery, sleep quality, and collagen synthesis enhancement.
Indications
- Growth hormone optimization for anti-aging and body composition
- Enhanced recovery from training and injury
- Sleep quality improvement and deep sleep enhancement
- Collagen synthesis and connective tissue support
Mechanism of Action
Growth hormone secretion declines ~14% per decade after age 30, reducing recovery, lean mass, and cellular repair
Dosing
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ipamorelin | 200-300 mcg | Once daily (before bed, fasting) | Pre-bed dosing amplifies natural nocturnal GH pulse; fast 2 hours before |
| Ipamorelin | 100-200 mcg | Twice daily (morning + before bed) | Split dosing for enhanced GH pulsatility; both doses on empty stomach |
| Ipamorelin + CJC-1295 (no DAC) | 100-200 mcg each | Once daily (before bed) | Synergistic combination: GHRH analog + GH secretagogue for amplified GH release |
Evidence Grade
GRADE C
Safety & Contraindications
- Not FDA-approved; used off-label in anti-aging medicine
- Minimal cortisol and prolactin elevation (advantage over GHRP-6/GHRP-2)
- May cause transient headache, flushing, or dizziness at injection site
- Monitor IGF-1 levels to avoid supraphysiologic growth hormone elevation
- Contraindicated in active malignancy (GH promotes tumor growth)
- Use sterile technique for all subcutaneous injections