Ipamorelin

Compoundable (Rx)

Growth Hormone Secretagogues · GH Release

Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates the pituitary gland to produce growth hormone without significantly affecting cortisol or prolactin levels.

What is Ipamorelin?

Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates the pituitary gland to produce growth hormone without significantly affecting cortisol or prolactin levels. It is considered one of the safest and most selective GH-releasing peptides available.

Also known as: NNC 26-0161

How Does Ipamorelin Work?

Selectively binds to ghrelin/GHS receptors in the pituitary gland, stimulating the release of growth hormone in a pulsatile, physiological manner. Unlike other GHRPs, it does not significantly increase ACTH, cortisol, prolactin, or aldosterone, making it highly selective.

What is Ipamorelin Used For?

Growth hormone optimization
Anti-aging
Fat loss
Muscle recovery
Sleep improvement

Potential Side Effects

Headache
Flushing
Dizziness
Injection site irritation
Water retention (mild)

Contraindications

Active cancer
Pregnancy
Pituitary disorders

FDA Legal Status

United States — FDA

Compoundable (Rx)

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Head-to-head comparisons:

Ipamorelin vs Sermorelin Ipamorelin vs CJC-1295

Frequently Asked Questions

What does ipamorelin do?

Ipamorelin stimulates your pituitary gland to release growth hormone naturally. This can improve body composition, enhance recovery, support fat loss, improve sleep quality, and provide anti-aging benefits — all without the risks of direct HGH administration.

Is ipamorelin better than HGH?

Ipamorelin stimulates natural GH production in a pulsatile pattern, which is more physiological than exogenous HGH injection. It has fewer side effects, doesn't suppress natural GH production, and is significantly less expensive. However, it produces more modest GH elevations.

How long does ipamorelin take to work?

GH levels peak about 30-40 minutes after injection. Noticeable effects on sleep and recovery are typically reported within 1-2 weeks. Body composition changes become evident after 6-12 weeks of consistent use.

Quick Facts

Legal Status (USA): Compoundable (Rx)
Evidence Rating: BModerate Evidence (Some Human Data)
Class / Subclass: Growth Hormone Secretagogues / GH Release
Administration: subcutaneous
Typical Dosage: 200-300mcg 2-3x daily
Half-Life: ~2 hours
Year Discovered: 1998

Sources

PubMed 9849822

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Sources & references

Primary sources used for the dosing, mechanism, side-effect, and regulatory claims on this page. Verify time-sensitive information (regulatory status, prescribing details) on the source before relying on it for medical decisions. See our disclaimer.

PubMed PMID 9849822 — peer-reviewed primary literature on Ipamorelin.
FDA Federal Register — official notice record for FDA regulatory actions and Category 1 / 503A bulk-substance updates.