Ipamorelin

Growth hormone secretagogue · Also known as IPAM, Ipamorelin acetate

What is ipamorelin?

A selective growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates natural GH release without significantly affecting cortisol or prolactin levels.

Ipamorelin is a pentapeptide that selectively mimics ghrelin to stimulate growth hormone release from the pituitary gland. Unlike other GH secretagogues, it doesn't significantly raise cortisol, acetylcholine, prolactin, or aldosterone, making it one of the cleanest options in its class.

Key takeaway: Ipamorelin is considered one of the mildest and most selective GH secretagogues, often stacked with CJC-1295 for synergistic effects.

Benefits & evidence

Growth hormone release Moderate confidence
Muscle recovery Preliminary confidence
Sleep quality Preliminary confidence
Fat metabolism Preliminary confidence

How it works

Ipamorelin binds to ghrelin receptors in the pituitary gland, triggering a pulse of growth hormone release that mimics the body's natural rhythm. Its selectivity means it stimulates GH without the hunger spikes associated with GHRP-6 or the cortisol increases seen with GHRP-2.

Dosing information

Typical dosing protocol
Starting dose

100-200 mcg 2-3x daily

4-6 weeks
Maintenance dose

200-300 mcg before bed

8-12 weeks

Often stacked with CJC-1295 (no DAC) for enhanced GH pulse. Best administered on an empty stomach. Consult your provider for protocols.

Side effects

Most side effects tend to improve as your body adjusts.

Injection site reaction Common
Headache Common
Water retention Uncommon
Numbness/tingling Uncommon

Research (10 studies)

Therapeutic Peptides in Orthopaedics: Applications, Challenges, and Future Directions. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Global research & reviews · 2026
Real-world therapy and persistence of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy or diabetic macular edema: a German claims data analysis. Graefe's archive for clinical and experimental ophthalmology = Albrecht von Graefes Archiv fur klinische und experimentelle Ophthalmologie · 2025