Growth Hormone Axis
Ipamorelin
Selective growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates the pituitary with minimal side effects. Considered one of the cleanest GHRPs available.
Also known as: NNC 26-0161
Specifications
| Research area | Growth Hormone Axis | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Half-life | ~2 h | ||
| Molecular weight | 711.9 Da | ||
| Amino acid residues | 5 | ||
| CAS number | 170851-70-4 | ||
| Formula | C₃₈H₄₉N₉O₅ | ||
| Sequence | Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂ | ||
| Designation | H-Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂ (pentapeptide GHS) | ||
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-life | ~2 h | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| T-max | ~30 min | ||
| Route | Subcutaneous (research use) | ||
Receptor targets
| GHSR-1a | Selective ghrelin-receptor agonist | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Anterior pituitary somatotrophs | Pulsatile GH release | ||
Signalling cascade
- GHSR-1a binding
- Gq/PLC activation
- Ca²⁺ release
- Pulsatile GH secretion
- IGF-1 ↑
Research areas
- Mechanism of action
- Selective GH secretagogue receptor (GHSR-1a) agonist that stimulates pulsatile growth hormone release from the anterior pituitary without significant elevation of cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH. Provides a clean model for studying GH pulse dynamics and downstream IGF-1 signaling.
- Reported research ranges
- 200–300 mcg subcutaneously, 2–3 times a day. Ideally taken on an empty stomach or before bedtime.
- Reported adverse effects
- Increased appetite, mild water retention, transient tingling. Uncommon: facial flushing.
- Storage and handling
- Refrigerate at 2–8 °C after reconstitution. The powder is stable at room temperature for up to 18 months.
Research focus
- Pulsatile GH release and GHSR-1a receptor pharmacology
- Anabolic signaling and lean mass regulation via IGF-1 axis
- Cortisol and prolactin independence in GH stimulation models
- Appetite modulation through ghrelin pathway interaction
- Body composition research in rodent models
Overview
Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide that acts as a growth hormone (GH) secretagogue. This compound is utilized in preclinical models to study the pulsatile release of GH, which is essential for understanding anabolic signaling pathways in the body. Unlike other secretagogues, Ipamorelin does not cause a significant increase in cortisol or prolactin, making it an interesting candidate for research in endocrinology.
Researchers are interested in Ipamorelin due to its ability to induce the release of GH in a controlled and precise manner. This can help clarify the mechanisms of action of growth hormone and its impact on cellular growth and development, as well as on the regulation of metabolism.
This material is published for scientific and educational reference. It is not medical advice, not a treatment recommendation, and not an offer to sell. Compounds discussed are for research and laboratory use only.
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