Ipamorelin
Clean GH pulses. No cortisol spike.
Ipamorelin is a pentapeptide growth hormone secretagogue (GHRP) — a selective agonist of the ghrelin/GH secretagogue receptor. Unlike earlier GHRPs like GHRP-6 or hexarelin, Ipamorelin is highly selective: it produces strong GH pulses without meaningfully raising cortisol or prolactin, the two hormones you don't want elevated. That selectivity is what makes it beginner-friendly and appropriate for long-term protocols.
Selective GHS-R1a (ghrelin receptor) agonism on the anterior pituitary drives GH release through a pathway separate from GHRH. When paired with a GHRH analog like CJC-1295, the two receptors are activated simultaneously, producing a larger, cleaner GH pulse than either alone.
- E.01Early clinical trials in the 1990s established selective GH release without prolactin or ACTH elevation.
- E.02Studied for post-operative ileus recovery (as ipamorelin acetate).
- E.03Consistent GH-release profile across published human pharmacokinetic studies.
One of the best-tolerated peptides in this category. Common side effects are mild: brief head rush, injection-site reaction, occasional water retention. Contraindicated for active cancer.
Canonical pairing with CJC-1295 (with or without DAC). The combination is the most common GH-optimization protocol in the field.
Research use only. Not FDA-approved.
How does Ipamorelin work?+
What are the reported benefits of Ipamorelin?+
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What is the regulatory status of Ipamorelin?+
This page summarizes publicly available research. Nothing here is medical advice, a prescription, or a diagnosis. Peptides described are not FDA-approved for the uses discussed unless explicitly noted. Consult a qualified physician before starting any protocol.