Ipamorelin Dosage Discussion

On recent labs, my doctor noted my IGF-1 was on the low end, 105ng/mL (range 88-246).

He added 350 micrograms of ipamorelin per day to my current protocol, injected before bed every night. I've been trying to do a bit of research on ipamorelin, its efficacy and safety, but have come up short. There is not a lot out there on Youtube, etc.


Is anyone out there using this? What are your thoughts on it? Is it worth it or a waste of money?

Based on the search results, here are the key points about Ipamorelin dosage:

1. Typical dosage range:
- 100-300 mcg per injection[1][4][6]
- Administered 1-3 times daily[1][4][6]

2. Common dosing protocols:
- 200-300 mcg total daily dose, split into 2-3 injections[6]
- 300 mcg per day, typically administered before bed[7][8]

3. Dosing frequency:
- Daily or 5 times per week[4][8]
- Often taken at night to mimic natural growth hormone release[7][8]

4. Duration of use:
- Cycles typically last 8-12 weeks[5]
- Followed by a 4-8 week break period[5]

5. Administration:
- Given via subcutaneous injection[1][6]
- Taken on an empty stomach, at least 30-60 minutes before or after eating[1][4]

6. Personalization:
- Dosage may need to be adjusted based on individual factors like age, weight, and goals[4][5]
- It's recommended to start with a lower dose and increase gradually if needed[5]

7. Medical supervision:
- Consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial to determine the appropriate dosage[4][5]

8. Combination use:
- Often combined with CJC-1295 for synergistic effects[7]
- When combined, a typical dose might be 500 mcg Ipamorelin with 250 mcg CJC-1295[7]

It's important to note that Ipamorelin is not FDA-approved for human use, and these dosages are based on research and anecdotal reports. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptides.

Ipamorelin: A Detailed Briefing Document​

Introduction:​

Ipamorelin is a growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) that functions as a ghrelin analog. It stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone (GH) while simultaneously inhibiting somatostatin, leading to a more stable and natural release of GH. Unlike some other GHRPs, Ipamorelin is noted for not significantly increasing hunger, cortisol, or prolactin. It is commonly used off-label for age-management, body composition changes (reducing fat, increasing lean mass), and improving overall quality of life.

Key Themes and Important Information:​

1. Mechanism of Action:​

• Ipamorelin acts as a "Ghrelin agonist," binding to receptors in the brain and pituitary cells.
• "Not only does it stimulate the pituitary gland to release growth hormone, it also inhibits the release of somatostatin." This dual action contributes to a "more steady slow release of growth hormone" that "mimics the natural release of GH."
• "In laboratory studies it is shown that Ipamorelin has a more stable release of GH than most other GHRPs."

2. Dosage and Administration:​

• Typical Dosage Range: 100-300 mcg per injection, administered 1-3 times daily.
• Common Protocols: 200-300 mcg total daily dose split into 2-3 injections, or 300 mcg per day, often before bed.
• Frequency: Daily or 5 times per week. Taking it at night is common to mimic natural GH release.
• Duration: Cycles typically last 8-12 weeks, followed by a 4-8 week break period. For age-management/wellness, it can be taken chronically at 250-500 mcg qhs (every night at bedtime).
• Administration Method: Subcutaneous injection.
• Timing: "Taken on an empty stomach, at least 30-60 minutes before or after eating."
• Personalization: Dosage may be adjusted based on individual factors like age, weight, and goals. It's recommended to "start with a lower dose and increase gradually if needed."
• Medical Supervision: "Consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial to determine the appropriate dosage."
• Availability: Available as a lyophilized powder for subcutaneous injection (must be reconstituted). Common concentrations from compounding pharmacies are 6mg and 15mg vials. A 15mg vial can provide 50 doses of 300 micrograms.

3. Therapeutic Uses (Off-label):​

• Age Management: "Most commonly used in aging patients and/or patients who are undergoing body composition changes including loss of body fat." It aims to "reverse age-related, maladaptive changes in body composition such as reduced lean body mass (muscle), increased total and visceral fat, and decreased bone mass."
• Body Composition: Used to "improve lean mass and decrease fat." Anecdotal reports confirm "fat loss and muscle fullness" and "increased my lifts."
• Physical Performance & Recovery: Reported to "increase physical performance." One user noted it "Allows me to train like a beast."
• Sleep Quality: "Reported to... benefit sleep." Users have experienced "Great sleep" with Ipamorelin.
• Bone and Connective Tissue Health: "In laboratory studies it is shown that Ipamorelin has the ability to strengthen connective tissue and joints, bone strength, and metabolism."
• Immune System: "It has also shown to possibly have a positive influence on the immune system."
• Patient Types: Suitable for "Elderly patients who may not have optimal pituitary function due to aging; younger patients who can optimize hGH output; Patients on a weight-management program; patients requiring long term chronic treatment of GH."

4. Benefits (Advantages over other GH secretagogues):​

• IGF-1 Efficacy: "Appears to be more effective than Sermorelin at increasing IGF-1."
• Appetite Control: "Does not increase hunger unlike other ghrelin peptides." This is a notable advantage compared to Ibutamoren (MK-677), which can increase appetite.
• Cortisol and Prolactin: "Reduced risk of increasing cortisol and prolactin unlike other ghrelin peptides." High cortisol can lead to water and fat gain.
• Endogenous GH Production: "It does not shut down endogenous GH production upon cessation, unlike Sermorelin" or exogenous GH. This makes it a more favorable option for long-term use.
• Physician Prescription: "Commonly prescribed by physicians who report positive outcomes in patients who want to lose weight and/or who do not respond adequately to Sermorelin."
• Safety in Elderly: "Safe and effective in elderly patients who have decreased hGH production."

5. Potential Negatives/Side Effects:​

• While "few side effects have been reported," anecdotal mentions include:
• "Headache/lightheadedness"
• "Water retention" (especially at higher doses, e.g., 2 mg/day)
• "Numbness in extremities"
• "Tiredness"
• "Decreased Insulin sensitivity"
• "Carpal tunnel symptoms"
• These side effects are "undoubtedly related to excessive hGH exposure and thus, dosage should be reduced."
• Regulatory Status: "Ipamorelin is not FDA-approved for human use, and these dosages are based on research and anecdotal reports." Tesamorelin and Sermorelin are FDA-approved.

6. Combination Use:​

• Often "combined with CJC-1295 for synergistic effects."
• "When combined, a typical dose might be 500 mcg Ipamorelin with 250 mcg CJC-1295."

7. Comparison with other GH Secretagogues (Sermorelin, Ibutamoren/MK-677, Tesamorelin):​

• Sermorelin: Ipamorelin is generally considered "more effective... at increasing IGF-1" and "does not shut down endogenous GH production upon cessation, unlike Sermorelin."
• Ibutamoren (MK-677): Ibutamoren is an oral option with a 24-hour half-life, which is convenient. However, it is often associated with increased hunger and water retention, which Ipamorelin generally avoids. While Ibutamoren can increase cortisol (which may help with joint pain), high levels can lead to water and fat gain.
• Tesamorelin: FDA-approved for decreasing HIV-related abdominal fat. No direct head-to-head comparison data with Ipamorelin is available regarding general GH-boosting effects. Its accessibility and price point compared to Ipamorelin may influence choice.

Conclusion:​

Ipamorelin presents itself as a promising growth hormone secretagogue with several advantages, particularly its ability to provide a natural and steady GH release without significantly impacting hunger, cortisol, or prolactin, and without suppressing endogenous GH production upon cessation. While widely used for anti-aging, body composition improvements, and enhanced quality of life, it is crucial to remember its off-label status and the importance of medical supervision due to the anecdotal nature of some reported benefits and side effects. Individual responses can vary, and careful dose titration is advised to minimize potential negatives like water retention.

Citations:
[1] Ipamorelin
[2] Understanding the Correct Dosage of Ipamorelin for Optimal Health Benefits
[3] Ipamorelin Overview, Dosage, and Risks — peptidesinstitute.org
[4] How Much cjc-1295 Ipamorelin Should I Take Explained by Tulsi
[5] Ipamorelin CJC 1295: Ideal Dosage for Fitness - Anti-Aging Northwest
[6] Ipamorelin Dosage Calculator and Chart | A-Z Guide
[7] Ipamorelin/CJC1295
[8] SERMORELIN/IPAMORELIN - Houston Men's Health Clinic

 

Here is a link to a webinar that Nelson did recently (May 31, 2018) in which they discuss ipamorelin.

Growth Hormone Secretagogues

Attached file - downloadable for registered ExcelMale members.

 

Ipamorelin is a very effective growth hormone releasing agent.

Functioning as a GH secretagogue (Ghrelin analog), Ipamorelin binds to receptors in the brain and pituitary cells to cause the production and release of growth hormone. Not only does it stimulate the pituitary gland to release growth hormone, it also inhibits the release of somatostatin. Ipamorelin creates a more steady slow release of growth hormone and as such mimics the natural release of GH. In laboratory studies it is shown that Ipamorelin has a more stable release of GH than most other GHRPs. In studies previously done on animal test subjects, it was found that Ipamorelin has the ability to strengthen connective tissue and joints, bone strength, and metabolism.

•Type: Ghrelin agonist

•Available Dosage Form: Lyophilized powder for subcutaneous injection (must be reconstituted)

•Strengths: Compounding pharmacies may offer several different strengths and combinations. The most common Ipamorelin concentrations offered as a multi-dose injection are 6mg, and 15mg. Compounded ipamorelin 500mg tablets (ODTs) remain pending until the investigation is completed in 2018

•Protocol: 250mcg-1000mcg every day qhs for 3-6 months to reach short term goals. Ipamorelin can also be taken chronically at 250-500mcg qhs for age-management/wellness in aging patients. Starting dose of 300- 500 micrograms per day may be sufficient to improve lean mass and decrease fat without water retention, hyperglycemia, and joint pain.

•Uses (off-label): Ipamorelin has similar uses as Sermorelin. It is most commonly used in aging patients and/or patients who are undergoing body composition changes including loss of body fat. Ipamorelin is used to reverse age-related, maladaptive changes in body composition such as reduced lean body mass (muscle), increased total and visceral fat, and decreased bone mass. It also is reported to increase physical performance, benefit sleep, and enhance quality of life.

•Patient Type: Elderly patients who may not have optimal pituitary function due to aging; younger patients who can optimize hGH output; Patients on a weight-management program; patients requiring long term chronic treatment of GH

Benefits:

•Appears to be more effective than Sermorelin at increasing IGF-1

•Does not increase hunger unlike other ghrelin peptides

•Reduced risk of increasing cortisol and prolactin unlike other ghrelin peptides

•It does not shut down endogenous GH production upon cessation, unlike Sermorelin.

•Commonly prescribed by physicians who report positive outcomes in patients who want to lose weight and/or who do not respond adequately to Sermorelin

•Safe and effective in elderly patients who have decreased hGH production

•In studies done on animal test subjects, Ipamorelin has been found to increase the amount of lean muscle with the development of new muscle cells.

•It has also shown to possibly have a positive influence on the immune system. This positive effect is due to secondary actions of ghrelin on the body.

•In a few studies, ipamorelin has also been found to increase the natural sleep patterns of test animals.

Negatives:

While few side effects have been reported, below are some that have been mentioned anecdotally. These if real, are undoubtedly related to excessive hGH exposure and thus, dosage should be reduced.

Headache/lightheadedness

Water retention

Numbness in extremities

Tiredness

Decreased Insulin sensitivity

Carpal tunnel symptoms

Studies:

Google Scholar

Available in the US by prescription at Empower Pharmacy. It comes in 15 mg vials ( 50 doses of 300 micrograms). Bacteriostatic water, syringes, and alcohol pads are provided free of charge with every shipped order. Prescriptions should be faxed as

Ipamorelin Acetate, 15 mg vial, 300 mcg/day, #3

More on Ipamorelin from ExcelMale.com

 

Ipamorelin is a very effective growth hormone releasing agent.

Functioning as a GH secretagogue (Ghrelin analog), Ipamorelin binds to receptors in the brain and pituitary cells to cause the production and release of growth hormone. Not only does it stimulate the pituitary gland to release growth hormone, it also inhibits the release of somatostatin. Ipamorelin creates a more steady slow release of growth hormone and as such mimics the natural release of GH. In laboratory studies it is shown that Ipamorelin has a more stable release of GH than most other GHRPs. In studies previously done on animal test subjects, it was found that Ipamorelin has the ability to strengthen connective tissue and joints, bone strength, and metabolism.

•Type: Ghrelin agonist

•Available Dosage Form: Lyophilized powder for subcutaneous injection (must be reconstituted)

•Strengths: Compounding pharmacies may offer several different strengths and combinations. The most common Ipamorelin concentrations offered as a multi-dose injection are 6mg, and 15mg. Compounded ipamorelin 500mg tablets (ODTs) remain pending until the investigation is completed in 2018

•Protocol: 250mcg-1000mcg every day qhs for 3-6 months to reach short term goals. Ipamorelin can also be taken chronically at 250-500mcg qhs for age-management/wellness in aging patients. Starting dose of 300- 500 micrograms per day may be sufficient to improve lean mass and decrease fat without water retention, hyperglycemia, and joint pain.

•Uses (off-label): Ipamorelin has similar uses as Sermorelin. It is most commonly used in aging patients and/or patients who are undergoing body composition changes including loss of body fat. Ipamorelin is used to reverse age-related, maladaptive changes in body composition such as reduced lean body mass (muscle), increased total and visceral fat, and decreased bone mass. It also is reported to increase physical performance, benefit sleep, and enhance quality of life.

•Patient Type: Elderly patients who may not have optimal pituitary function due to aging; younger patients who can optimize hGH output; Patients on a weight-management program; patients requiring long term chronic treatment of GH

Benefits:

•Appears to be more effective than Sermorelin at increasing IGF-1

•Does not increase hunger unlike other ghrelin peptides

•Reduced risk of increasing cortisol and prolactin unlike other ghrelin peptides

•It does not shut down endogenous GH production upon cessation, unlike Sermorelin.

•Commonly prescribed by physicians who report positive outcomes in patients who want to lose weight and/or who do not respond adequately to Sermorelin

•Safe and effective in elderly patients who have decreased hGH production

•In studies done on animal test subjects, Ipamorelin has been found to increase the amount of lean muscle with the development of new muscle cells.

•It has also shown to possibly have a positive influence on the immune system. This positive effect is due to secondary actions of ghrelin on the body.

•In a few studies, ipamorelin has also been found to increase the natural sleep patterns of test animals.

Negatives:

While few side effects have been reported, below are some that have been mentioned anecdotally. These if real, are undoubtedly related to excessive hGH exposure and thus, dosage should be reduced.

Headache/lightheadedness

Water retention

Numbness in extremities

Tiredness

Decreased Insulin sensitivity

Carpal tunnel symptoms

Studies:

Google Scholar

Available in the US by prescription at Empower Pharmacy. It comes in 15 mg vials ( 50 doses of 300 micrograms). Bacteriostatic water, syringes, and alcohol pads are provided free of charge with every shipped order. Prescriptions should be faxed as

Ipamorelin Acetate, 15 mg vial, 300 mcg/day, #3

View attachment 6920

What does this run price wise Nelson? Is it available through Defy?

 

That was the best explanation of Ipamorelin I've heard/read.
Thanks for posting that Nelson.

Do you have something similar you could post for Tesamorelin?

 

Thank you.

Tesamorelin is approved for decreasing HIV-related abdominal fat (brand name Egrifta). It decreased visceral fat by 20% in 2/3 of subjects after 26 weeks of daily injections of 2 mg. These patients were not on special diet or exercise.

Here is a document from the FDA: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/022505s000lbl.pdf

 

So would you not recommend Tesamorelin for the run of the mill TRT patient?

 

We have no head-to-head, mg to mg comparison data among GH secretagogues, so it's hard to say anything. It is a matter of what you can access and at what price.

Sermorelin, ipamorelin, GHRP-2, ibutamoren and several others are available by prescription in some compounding pharmacies and, as you know, several websites sell what they claim are peptides.

Tesamorelin and Sermorelin are FDA approved.

 

$125 for a 15 mg vial. If you use 300 micrograms per day, this vial will last for 50 days.

At the DefyMedicalStore.com link it's saying $165. Is the lower price listed elsewhere?

 

Any personal success stories with Ipamorelin or first hand comparison to Ibutoren (mk677). Seems like the monthly cost is comparable now. I was curious about joint healing, fat loss, mass. I’ve run MK before and my joints loved it - needed to keep it at 12.5 mg / day to avoid water retention. No withdrawals either. I’m assuming Ipamorelin would so the same - or perhaps more since it’s injected?

 

If you can tolerate ibutamoren without getting water retention or gaining fat, I would stay with it since it is a good IGF-1 booster and probably increases cortisol better than ipamorelin (increased cortisol translates into less joint pain but can cause water and fat gain if too high). Your low dose should be fine. Are you very hungry?

 

If you can tolerate ibutamoren without getting water retention or gaining fat, I would stay with it since it is a good IGF-1 booster and probably increases cortisol better than ipamorelin (increased cortisol translates into less joint pain but can cause water and fat gain if too high). Your low dose should be fine. Are you very hungry?

Thanks Nelson. After a few weeks I did have a hard time controlling my appetite. Generally whenever I run MK I always dial it back to EOD after a while due to weight gain. No other sides when taking it at night. I heard Ipamorelin was “better” from a few folks so I was trying to see if that was the case. One good thing about MK is that it is very convenient dosing (oral) and a 24 hour half life.

 

Question, I know peptides aren't created equal but if Empower's Ipamorelin failed to show any increases in IGF-1, would Tesamorelin work where Ipamorelin failed?

Dr. Saya believed Ipamorelin failed do to insulin resistance.

 

Question, I know peptides aren't created equal but if Empower's Ipamorelin failed to show any increases in IGF-1, would Tesamorelin work where Ipamorelin failed?

Dr. Saya believed Ipamorelin failed do to insulin resistance.

There is only one way to find out. The real question is "can you get real tesamorelin online?"

 

I’m two weeks in Ipamorelin (300 mcg/day). Loving it. Great sleep and increased my lifts, with visibility noticeable fat loss and muscle fullness. Allows me to train like a beast. I’ll get labs in another 8 weeks and post back with more results - but initial impressions are very positive.

 

I like it also. I have also tried a higher dose of 2 mg per day but I had a lot of water retention. Now on 0.5 mg per day. No issues.

 

I like it also. I have also tried a higher dose of 2 mg per day but I had a lot of water retention. Now on 0.5 mg per day. No issues.

Hello Nelson,
What labs did you have ran prior to starting Ipamorelin? Have you had any new labs lately and what were your levels compared to the starting levels? What have you noticed on your regimen (better sleep, muscle gain, fat loss, blood glucose levels, cholesterol levels, liver enzymes, etc.)?
Thanks.

 

I like it also. I have also tried a higher dose of 2 mg per day but I had a lot of water retention. Now on 0.5 mg per day. No issues.

Hey Nelson,

Why not take GH?

 

Hey Nelson,

Why not take GH?

Lack of access and using GH will shut down your GH axis when you stop. Ipamorelin will not.

 

I’ve been on Ipam at 300 mcgs/day for about 2 months. I have seen some subjective benefits – in terms of some fat loss and muscle gain – better skin – but my bloods just came back with an IGF-I that was lower than my baseline level by a few points. I dosed about four hours prior to the test. Got all the gear from a legit pharma through a Rx . Is this normal due to the short half life of Ipamorelin? Doc suggested I increase my dose to 400 mcgs or switch to an Ipamorelin / ghrp2 combo. Any thoughts?