Ipamorelin
Selective ghrelin receptor agonist
A highly selective GH secretagogue valued in research for producing GH pulses with minimal effect on cortisol, prolactin or appetite.
How it works
Ipamorelin is a selective agonist at the GHS-R1a receptor, the same receptor targeted by the natural hormone ghrelin. Binding this receptor in the pituitary triggers a short, physiologic pulse of growth hormone release, mimicking the body's own pulsatile secretion pattern rather than producing sustained elevation.
Its selectivity is the key research interest: unlike earlier ghrelin-mimetic peptides, ipamorelin shows minimal cross-reactivity with receptors that drive cortisol, prolactin, or appetite changes. This is reported to give it a cleaner side-effect profile in preclinical and early clinical comparisons.
Because it produces a discrete pulse rather than continuous receptor activation, ipamorelin is often studied alongside a GHRH analog, which raises the baseline GH signal that the ipamorelin pulse builds on top of.
What research has shown
Preclinical and early clinical data show dose-dependent GH release with a cleaner side-effect profile than GHRP-2 or GHRP-6.
Reported ranges in the literature
Low end
100 mcg per dose
Optimal
200 to 300 mcg per dose
High end
300 mcg, 2 to 3× daily
Frequency reported in the literature: 1 to 3× daily, fasted
Frequently asked questions
What is ipamorelin?
Ipamorelin is a selective ghrelin receptor agonist studied for producing clean, physiologic growth hormone pulses with minimal off-target hormonal effects.
How does ipamorelin differ from GHRP-2 or GHRP-6?
Ipamorelin is more selective for the GHS-R1a receptor, whereas GHRP-2 and GHRP-6 are associated with greater cortisol, prolactin, and appetite effects in comparative research.
What does the research show?
Preclinical and early clinical data report dose-dependent GH release with a favorable side-effect profile relative to older ghrelin-mimetic secretagogues.
How is ipamorelin typically studied in combination?
It is frequently paired with a GHRH analog such as CJC-1295 or sermorelin to combine a raised GH baseline with a discrete secretory pulse.
How long are research blocks typically?
Published protocols commonly describe multi-week blocks with fasted dosing, often reassessed at 8 to 12 week intervals.
Related compounds
Further reading
Research use only
All content on this page is general reference information for laboratory research contexts. It is not medical advice, is not intended to direct human use, and does not replace guidance from a licensed healthcare professional. Not for human consumption. Must be 18+.