Ipamorelin
The Selective GH Secretagogue
Molecular Data
- Formula
- C38H49N9O5
- Molecular Weight
- 711.85 g/mol
- Sequence
- Aib-His-D-2Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2
01
Overview
Ipamorelin is a selective pentapeptide growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) and ghrelin receptor agonist. It is notable for its high selectivity, stimulating GH release without significantly affecting cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH — making it one of the cleanest GHRPs studied. Its mild action and favorable side-effect profile make it a subject of extensive research.
02
Mechanism of Action
Ipamorelin acts at the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) on somatotrophs and hypothalamic neurons, stimulating GH secretion. Unlike GHRP-2 and GHRP-6, it does not activate corticotroph or lactotroph pathways, resulting in highly selective GH elevation.
03
Research Highlights
Receptor binding studies confirm selectivity for GHS-R1a over other neuropeptide receptors
Chronic administration studies show no tachyphylaxis or desensitization of pituitary response
Body composition research in elderly subjects shows improvements in fat-free mass
04
Dosage
Administration & Timing
Subcutaneous (SC) injection into abdominal or gluteal subcutaneous tissue, 1–3× daily. Research protocols administer before sleep, post-workout, or between meals to maximize GH pulse amplitude.
Dosage Guidelines
Cycle Length
4–12 weeks; followed by 2–4 week rest to preserve GH receptor sensitivity.
05
Reconstitution
Solvent
Bacteriostatic Water (0.9% benzyl alcohol)
Volume
2 mL added to a 5 mg vial
Concentration
2.5 mg/mL (2,500 mcg/mL)
Storage
Refrigerate at 2–8 °C; protect from light. Discard 30 days after reconstitution.
Notes
Ipamorelin is the cleanest GHRP (minimal ghrelin-like hunger and cortisol effects). A 100 mcg dose equals 4 units on a U-100 syringe.
Research Reference Only
Dosage and reconstitution values reflect commonly cited ranges from published research literature and are presented for educational and research reference only. This is not medical advice or a dosing recommendation. HEXAGEN does not endorse human use of any compound. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Research Disclaimer
Ipamorelin is for educational and research purposes only. Not intended as medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
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Ipamorelin — Common Research Questions
What is Ipamorelin?
Ipamorelin is a selective pentapeptide growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) and ghrelin receptor agonist. It is notable for its high selectivity, stimulating GH release without significantly affecting co... Ipamorelin belongs to the Weight Loss research category and is studied for its the selective gh secretagogue.
How does Ipamorelin work?
Ipamorelin acts at the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) on somatotrophs and hypothalamic neurons, stimulating GH secretion. Unlike GHRP-2 and GHRP-6, it does not activate corticotroph or lactotroph pathways, resulting in highly selective GH elevation.
What are the key research benefits of Ipamorelin?
Selective GH pulse stimulation without cortisol elevation. Fat loss and lean body mass improvement. Enhanced recovery and sleep quality. Minimal prolactin or ACTH effects. Synergistic with CJC-1295 for amplified GH response. Long-term use studies show maintained sensitivity.
What is the molecular structure of Ipamorelin?
Ipamorelin has the molecular formula C38H49N9O5 and a molecular weight of 711.85 g/mol. Its amino acid sequence is Aib-His-D-2Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2. This structural information is important for researchers studying receptor binding and pharmacokinetics.
What does the research say about Ipamorelin?
Receptor binding studies confirm selectivity for GHS-R1a over other neuropeptide receptors Chronic administration studies show no tachyphylaxis or desensitization of pituitary response Body composition research in elderly subjects shows improvements in fat-free mass These findings are based on preclinical and clinical research. Ipamorelin is a research compound and these studies do not constitute medical advice.
Is Ipamorelin FDA approved?
No. Ipamorelin is not FDA-approved for any indication. It is a research chemical studied in preclinical and early clinical research. These compounds are not approved for human therapeutic use and should only be studied in appropriate research settings.
What category does Ipamorelin belong to?
Ipamorelin belongs to the Weight Loss category, which focuses on compounds studied for their roles in metabolic regulation, growth hormone signaling, and targeted adipose tissue reduction. You can explore more compounds in this category on the Weight Loss pillar page.
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CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin: Synergistic GH Secretagogue Research
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Scientific References
Raun et al. — "Ipamorelin: a selective GH secretagogue" (Eur J Endocrinol, 1998)
Receptor selectivity studies — no cortisol/prolactin elevation
Receptor binding studies confirm selectivity for GHS-R1a over other neuropeptide receptors
Chronic administration studies show no tachyphylaxis or desensitization of pituitary response
Body composition research in elderly subjects shows improvements in fat-free mass