IGF-1 DES
Also known as: IGF-1(1-70), Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Des(1-3)
A truncated form of IGF-1 lacking the first 3 amino acids. More potent than IGF-1 LR3 with a shorter half-life, making it ideal for localized muscle growth at injection sites.
Beginner Basics
Plain-English guide to IGF-1 DES
What it does
This is a modified version of a natural growth factor that tells muscles to grow bigger and repair faster after training. Researchers use it because it works quickly and concentrates its effects right where you inject it.
Typical dose
50-100 micrograms injected once daily under the skin, split between both sides of the target muscle you want to grow.
When to inject
Immediately after your workout, directly into the muscle you just trained, since it only stays active for about 20-30 minutes.
Storage
Keep the dry powder in a freezer at -20°C until you mix it. Once mixed with liquid, store in a regular refrigerator between 2-8°C and keep it away from direct light.
First-timer tip
Start with the lower dose (50 mcg) and inject it right after training while your muscles are still primed to respond-timing matters a lot with this one because it works and leaves your system very quickly.
On This Page
Research Status
Limited Clinical Data
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
Usually resolves within 1-2 hours. Minimize by allowing solution to reach room temperature before injection and using proper injection technique. Apply ice if needed.
Transient swelling typically resolves within 24-48 hours. Indicates local anabolic response. Elevate limb and apply ice if bothersome.
Results from repeated injection into the same site. Prevent by rotating injection sites systematically. May be partially reversible if site rotation is implemented.
Distinct from delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS); typically resolves within 24 hours. Related to local inflammation and anabolic signaling.
More likely with systemic IGF-1 exposure; localized injection minimizes risk. Monitor blood glucose if diabetic or sensitive to hypoglycemia. Consume carbohydrates if symptoms occur (shakiness, sweating, confusion).
Results from needle trauma to small blood vessels. Minimize by using proper injection technique and avoiding aspiration if blood is visible. Bruising typically resolves within 1-2 weeks.
May develop with chronic repeated injection into the same site. Prevent by strict site rotation. If fibrosis develops, discontinue injections to that site and allow 4-6 weeks recovery.
Unlikely with localized intramuscular injection due to short half-life and local action. Risk increases with higher doses or repeated systemic exposure. Symptoms include jaw enlargement, hand/foot growth, and coarse facial features. Discontinue use and seek medical evaluation if suspected.
More common with systemic IGF-1 exposure. Localized injection minimizes risk. If occurs, reduce dose or frequency and monitor.
Associated with systemic IGF-1 elevation. Unlikely with localized intramuscular injection. Symptoms include wrist pain, numbness, and tingling. Seek medical evaluation if suspected.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 50-100 mcg |
Frequency, timing and route - members only | |
Research disclaimer
Figures drawn from published research literature and community logs. Not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution Guide
Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline, use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2-8°C
Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Molecular and Pharmacological Data
| Molecular weight | 7649 Da |
| Half-life | 20-30 minutes (intramuscular) |
| Sequence | Members only |
IGF-1 DES is a truncated form of insulin-like growth factor-1 lacking the first three amino acids, resulting in higher receptor affinity and potency compared to full-length IGF-1. When injected directly into muscle tissue, it binds to IGF-1 receptors on myocytes, activating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. This stimulates protein synthesis, inhibits protein degradation, and promotes myoblast proliferation and differentiation, leading to localized muscle hypertrophy. The short half-life (~20-30 minutes) limits systemic exposure and reduces the risk of systemic side effects associated with circulating IGF-1.
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View all peptidesResearch Use Only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. IGF-1 DES is not approved for human use by the FDA or any equivalent regulatory body. This is not medical advice. Do not use any substance discussed here for therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative purposes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The Peptide Volt does not endorse the use of any research chemicals. 18+ only.