Ipamorelin Overview

Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide and a potent, highly selective agonist of the ghrelin/growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a). It is categorized as a Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide (GHRP).

Core Functions:

• Selective GH Stimulation: Triggers the pituitary gland to release pulses of growth hormone (GH) without the typical “bleed” or constant elevation.
• Metabolic Support: Investigated for its ability to enhance lipolysis (fat breakdown) and improve insulin sensitivity.
• Tissue Regeneration: Supports protein synthesis, which is essential for the repair of muscle, bone, and connective tissues.
• Circadian Optimization: Research suggests it aligns with the body’s natural pulsatile rhythms, often resulting in improved deep-sleep (slow-wave) architecture.

History

Ipamorelin was originally developed by Novo Nordisk in the late 1990s as the first of a new generation of selective secretagogues. It was specifically designed to improve upon the pharmacology of GHRP-2 and GHRP-6 by removing the central “Ala-Trp” dipeptide, which was responsible for unwanted side effects like intense hunger and cortisol elevation. While it was initially investigated in Phase II clinical trials for postoperative recovery, it has since become a cornerstone of research into healthy aging, metabolic optimization, and regenerative biology.

Ipamorelin Structure

Chemical Name: 2-Methylalanyl-L-histidyl-3-(2-naphthyl)-D-alanyl-D-phenylalanyl-L-lysinamide
Sequence: Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂
CAS Number: 170851-70-4
Molecular Formula: C₃₈H₄₉N₉O₅
Molecular Weight: ~711.85 g/mol
PubChem CID: 9831659

Key Research Findings

• Ipamorelin has been studied in multiple non-human laboratory settings, including cell culture and animal models. Reported areas of scientific investigation include:
• Pituitary Specificity: Demonstrated a unique lack of effect on ACTH and cortisol levels, even at doses 200-fold higher than the effective dose for GH release.
• Bone Mineral Content: Research in adult models has shown significant increases in bone mineral content and density without altering volumetric density.
• Muscle Preservation: Found to promote the breakdown of adipose tissue, specifically targeting visceral fat stores in metabolic research.
• Lipolysis and Fat Loss: Found to promote the breakdown of adipose tissue, specifically targeting visceral fat stores in metabolic research.
• Gastrointestinal Motility: Investigated for its potential to accelerate gastric emptying and aid in recovery from postoperative ileus.
• Synergistic Potential: Findings confirm that when paired with a GHRH (like CJC-1295), the GH output is significantly more robust than when used as a monotherapy.
• Sleep Quality: Associated with enhanced slow-wave sleep, which is the primary phase for physiological repair and cognitive consolidation.
• Antioxidant Properties: Emerging research explores its role in reducing oxidative stress markers in cardiac and neuronal tissues.

Scientific Summary

Ipamorelin (Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂) is a selective growth hormone secretagogue that mimics the action of ghrelin. In laboratory and preclinical research, Ipamorelin is distinguished by its high degree of specificity; unlike earlier GHRPs, it does not significantly stimulate the release of cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH. This “clean” profile allows researchers to study the isolated effects of increased growth hormone on cellular repair, muscle preservation, and bone mineral density without the confounding variables of stress-hormone spikes.

Important Research Notice

Current published research on Ipamorelin is based on laboratory, animal, and limited human clinical trials. Ipamorelin has not been approved by the FDA for the treatment, prevention, or cure of any disease. Existing research does not establish definitive safety or long-term clinical outcomes for general use in humans. This molecule is intended strictly for laboratory research purposes.

References

1. Ipamorelin, the First Selective Growth Hormone Secretagogue
2. The GH Secretagogue Ipamorelin Increases Bone Mineral Content
3. Growth Hormone Secretagogues in Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine

Disclaimer: Links are provided for educational and research purposes only.

Research-Use Only Disclaimer

All products, articles, and information presented on this website are intended solely for laboratory, scientific, and educational purposes. Products are not drugs, supplements, or medical treatments and are not approved by the FDA for human or veterinary use. Products are not intended for consumption, injection, topical application, or any other bodily introduction. No information on this website should be interpreted as medical advice, health guidance, or product endorsement.