Ipamorelin
Also known as: IPA, NNC 26-0161
Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue that mimics ghrelin and stimulates the release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland. It is one of the cleanest GH-releasing peptides with minimal effect on cortisol and prolactin levels.
Beginner Basics
Plain-English guide to Ipamorelin
What it does
Ipamorelin signals your body to release more growth hormone, which researchers study for supporting muscle development and fat loss. It's considered one of the gentler options because it doesn't significantly raise stress hormones or prolactin like some alternatives.
Typical dose
200-300 micrograms (mcg) injected under the skin, 1-3 times daily. Researchers commonly use it once before bed or after workouts.
When to inject
Best used before bedtime, after exercise, or first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Timing around workouts may enhance effects.
Storage
Keep the powder in the refrigerator before mixing. Once mixed with liquid, store in the fridge and use within 30 days.
First-timer tip
Start with a single injection before bed to see how your body responds before adding more doses throughout the day.
On This Page
Research Status
Research compound - not FDA approved
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
Mild redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. Typically resolves within 24 hours. Minimise by rotating sites, allowing peptide to warm to room temperature, and using proper injection technique. Apply ice if swelling persists.
Transient headache may occur within 1-2 hours of injection, likely related to rapid GH elevation. Usually self-resolving. Ensure adequate hydration and consider timing injection earlier in the evening if nocturnal headache occurs.
Transient flushing or sensation of warmth may occur 15-30 minutes post-injection due to GH-mediated vasodilation. Self-resolving within 30-60 minutes.
Ghrelin receptor activation may transiently increase appetite, particularly if injected in the morning or early evening. This typically diminishes with continued use as the body adapts.
GH is counter-regulatory to insulin; individuals with insulin resistance, prediabetes, or diabetes may experience elevated fasting glucose or HbA1c. Monitor blood glucose regularly, especially if diabetic. Discontinue if significant hyperglycaemia develops and consult a healthcare provider.
Prolonged GH elevation can cause fluid retention and nerve compression, leading to CTS symptoms (numbness, tingling in hands). More likely with high doses or prolonged use. If symptoms develop, reduce dose, increase rest periods, or discontinue. Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist.
Transient myalgia or arthralgias may occur as GH stimulates protein synthesis and tissue remodelling. Usually mild and self-resolving. Ensure adequate protein intake and hydration.
Repeated injections in the same site can cause localised lipoatrophy (fat loss) or lipohypertrophy (fat thickening). Prevent by strictly rotating injection sites with each dose. If lipodystrophy develops, discontinue injections in that area for 4-6 weeks.
Mild nausea may occur within 1-2 hours of injection, particularly if injected on a full stomach. Typically self-resolving. Inject on an empty stomach or fasted state to minimise.
Transient dizziness may occur due to rapid GH elevation and metabolic changes. Ensure adequate hydration and avoid standing abruptly after injection. Sit or lie down if symptoms occur.
Anaphylaxis or severe allergic reaction is extremely rare but possible. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, throat swelling, severe rash, or hypotension. Seek emergency medical care immediately if suspected. Discontinue use and inform healthcare provider of the reaction.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 200-300 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 | 711.9 g/mol |
| Half-life | 2 hours (plasma); GH response peaks 30-60 minutes post-injection |
| Sequence | Members only |
Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue that acts as a ghrelin receptor agonist (GHS-R1a), stimulating the pituitary gland to release endogenous growth hormone. Unlike some other GH secretagogues, ipamorelin demonstrates high selectivity for GH release with minimal stimulation of cortisol or prolactin, making it one of the cleanest GH-releasing peptides available. It works synergistically with GHRH (growth hormone-releasing hormone) to amplify the natural pulsatile GH secretion pattern.
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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. Ipamorelin 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.