Ipamorelin
A selective growth hormone secretagogue peptide that triggers GH release without significantly raising cortisol or prolactin. Ipamorelin is considered one of the safest GH-boosting peptides with minimal side effects. Popular for anti-aging and body recomposition.
| Typical dose | 100-300 mcg |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Once to three times daily |
| Half-life | ~2 hours |
| Cycle length | 8-16 weeks |
| Research level | extensive |
| Prescription required | Yes |
Mechanism of action
Selectively binds ghrelin/GHS receptors on pituitary somatotrophs to trigger GH release in a pulsatile pattern, mimicking natural physiology without affecting ACTH or prolactin secretion.
What this means in practice
Ipamorelin is usually discussed alongside CJC-1295 rather than on its own, because the pairing is the point: they hit different receptors — Ipamorelin is a ghrelin/GHS-R agonist, CJC-1295 a GHRH analog — and the combination is why "CJC-1295 Ipamorelin" is searched far more often than either alone. Ipamorelin's selectivity is its main draw; unlike older GHRPs it has minimal effect on cortisol and prolactin. The short half-life means timing matters more than with longer-acting compounds, which is why it's commonly taken before bed.
Reported side effects
- Headache (mild)
- Water retention (transient)
- Increased appetite
Commonly stacked with
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Get Optim on Google Play →This page is informational and summarises publicly available research. It is not medical advice, not a prescription, and not a recommendation to use any compound. Most compounds described here are not approved by the FDA for human use. Legal status varies by jurisdiction and is yours to determine. Talk to a qualified clinician before starting, stopping, or changing any protocol. For adults 18+. Optim does not sell, source, or recommend suppliers.