Ipamorelin
Overview
Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide GH secretagogue that selectively stimulates growth hormone release from the anterior pituitary via the ghrelin receptor (GHSR-1a). Unlike older GH secretagogues (GHRP-2, GHRP-6), it does not significantly elevate cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH, making it one of the more selective options in its class. In completed Phase II clinical trials for post-operative ileus (NCT01280344), doses in the 200–300 mcg range were used. GH pulses triggered by ipamorelin are dose-dependent and are often combined with GHRH analogues (e.g., CJC-1295) for synergistic effect. Not approved for general clinical use. Consult a licensed physician before use.
Dosage
200 mcg · Any time · Can take on empty stomach
Key Interactions
2 verified interactions found
CJC-1295 (GHRH analogue) and Ipamorelin (ghrelin receptor agonist) act via distinct but complementary receptor pathways. Research suggests their combination produces amplified GH pulse amplitude compared to either agent alone, as GHRH increases the number of GH-secreting cells while ghrelin mimetics increase GH release per cell.
This combination is frequently studied together in research settings. Both remain unapproved research compounds outside clinical trials. Consult a licensed physician before any use.
View details →Sermorelin (GHRH 1-29) and Ipamorelin act on different pituitary receptors — GHRH-R and GHSR-1a respectively — producing synergistic GH release. Research shows this combination achieves greater GH pulse amplitude than either compound alone, due to additive signaling at the pituitary somatotroph level.
This combination is used in compounding research settings. Both are unapproved compounds for general use. Consult a licensed physician.
View details →What Experts Say
“"Ipamorelin suppresses somatostatin — it removes the brake on growth hormone release while also directly stimulating the pituitary"”
Ipamorelin is a GH secretagogue that increases GH through dual mechanisms: direct pituitary stimulation and suppression of somatostatin (removing the natural GH brake). It increases ghrelin, causing hunger and, in some users, anxiety. Improves deep sleep but may reduce REM sleep. Huberman rates it as having a more moderate side effect profile than Hexarelin, with less desensitization risk.
“"Still BPC 157, TB 500, you know, ipamorelin and stuff like that, like, the same stuff that I've always used before"”
Derek (MPMD) includes Ipamorelin in his standard recovery peptide stack alongside BPC-157 and TB-500. Used during recovery from a severe bow hunting training injury (back, neck, sciatica). Derek treats this combination as his default recovery protocol — unchanged across multiple injury episodes.
“"Ipamorelin is probably the one most prescribed in clinics — you get enhancement of sleep. Doesn't make you hungry really even though it operates through the same receptor pathway. Definitely increases IGF-1."”
Derek (MPMD) tells Peter Attia that Ipamorelin is probably the most prescribed GHRP in anti-aging clinics. Key advantages: enhances sleep, increases IGF-1, and unlike MK-677 or GHRP-6 it does not drive hyperphagia — "not influencing hunger to any reasonable magnitude within striking distance of MK677, that difference is literally like you eating 2,000 more calories a day not by choice."
Scientific Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ipamorelin used for?
Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide GH secretagogue that selectively stimulates growth hormone release from the anterior pituitary via the ghrelin receptor (GHSR-1a).
What is the recommended dosage for Ipamorelin?
200 mcg. Any time. Can take on empty stomach.
Does Ipamorelin interact with other supplements?
Ipamorelin has 2 verified interactions. Top: CJC-1295, Sermorelin.
When is the best time to take Ipamorelin?
Any time. Can take on empty stomach.
Is Ipamorelin safe to combine with other supplements?
Always check interactions before combining supplements. Use VitalStack to verify your full stack for free.
Check how Ipamorelin fits your full stack
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Check Your Stack →Not medical advice. VitalStack is not a medical device. For personalized health recommendations, consult a healthcare provider.