The most selective GHRP available, stimulating GH release with minimal cortisol or prolactin elevation.
Ipamorelin (NNC 26-0161) is a synthetic pentapeptide and one of the most selective growth hormone secretagogues ever developed. Discovered by Novo Nordisk in the 1990s, it was designed to maximize GH-releasing potency while minimizing off-target hormonal effects. Unlike earlier GHRPs such as GHRP-2 and GHRP-6, Ipamorelin does not significantly elevate cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH at standard doses, making it the preferred GHRP for long-term use. It is almost universally combined with CJC-1295 No DAC (a GHRH analog) to produce synergistic GH pulses through complementary receptor systems. Ipamorelin has completed Phase II clinical trials for post-operative ileus and has an excellent safety profile in human studies.
* Benefits based on preclinical/animal research unless otherwise noted.
Ipamorelin acts as a ghrelin mimetic, binding to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHS-R1a) — a Gq/11 protein-coupled receptor expressed on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary. GHS-R1a activation triggers phospholipase C (PLC) signaling, generating IP3 and DAG, which increases intracellular calcium and stimulates GH exocytosis. Ipamorelin’s selectivity for GH release over cortisol and prolactin is due to its specific binding conformation at GHS-R1a, which activates GH-releasing pathways without triggering adrenocorticotropic or lactotropic signaling cascades. When combined with CJC-1295 No DAC (which acts on GHRHR via the cAMP/PKA pathway), the two peptides act on distinct intracellular signaling cascades that converge on GH secretion, producing a synergistic pulse 2–10 times greater than either agent alone.
Protocol Notes: Best administered on an empty stomach. Bedtime administration aligns with natural GH pulse. Commonly combined with CJC-1295 No DAC for synergistic GH release.
Add 2 mL bacteriostatic water to 2 mg vial → 1000 mcg/mL For 300 mcg dose: draw 0.3 mL (30 units on U-100 syringe)
When sourcing Ipamorelin for research purposes, the following quality benchmarks should be verified before use.
Lyophilized: refrigerate. Reconstituted: refrigerate and use within 30 days.
The statements made within this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. The products and information provided are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This website is intended for educational and research purposes only. Many peptides described on this site are not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use and are classified as research chemicals. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice.
Moderate Evidence — Multiple animal studies and/or early human trials. Reasonable confidence in mechanism, but human data is limited.
Peptides commonly used alongside Ipamorelin for synergistic effects.
Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone Analog
A short-acting GHRH analog that produces physiological GH pulses when combined with a GHRP like Ipamorelin.
Learn More: CJC-1295 No DACGonadotropin
A naturally occurring gonadotropin that stimulates testosterone production and maintains testicular function during TRT.
Learn More: HCG