Research & Educational Use Only. This protocol guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Growth Hormone Releasing PeptideEvidence Grade: B+ (Human Clinical Data)
Ipamorelin Protocol Guide
Ipamorelin is the most selective growth hormone releasing peptide (GHRP) available for research. It stimulates pulsatile GH release by binding ghrelin/GHS receptors in the pituitary without significantly increasing cortisol, ACTH, or prolactin - making it the cleanest GHRP option. This protocol covers reconstitution from a 5mg vial, subcutaneous dosing at 200-300mcg 2-3x daily, optimal injection timing around sleep and fasting windows, and IGF-1 monitoring.
Protocol Overview
- Compound
- Ipamorelin
- Category
- Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide (GHRP)
- Mechanism
- Selectively binds ghrelin/GHS receptors for pulsatile GH release without cortisol/prolactin elevation
- Molecular Weight
- 711.85 Da
- Half-Life
- ~2 hours
- Vial Size
- 5mg lyophilized powder
- Route
- Subcutaneous injection
- Frequency
- 2-3x daily
- Cycle Length
- 8-16 weeks
Dosing Protocol
| Protocol | Weeks | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 1-12 | 200-300 mcg | 2-3x daily | Subcutaneous |
| Conservative | 1-8 | 100-200 mcg | 2x daily | Subcutaneous |
Key: Pre-bed dose is most important (amplifies nocturnal GH). Inject fasted - no food 1 hour before or 30 min after.
Reconstitution
Setup
- Ipamorelin 5mg vial
- 2mL bacteriostatic water
- Concentration: 2,500 mcg/mL
Dose Chart
| Dose | Volume | Units |
|---|---|---|
| 100 mcg | 0.04 mL | 4 units |
| 200 mcg | 0.08 mL | 8 units |
| 300 mcg | 0.12 mL | 12 units |
Administration
Injection Sites
- Abdomen: 2 inches from navel
- Thigh: Outer mid-thigh
- Rotate sites between injections
Timing
- Pre-bed: 30-60 min before sleep (critical)
- Morning: Upon waking, fasted
- Avoid carbs/fats 2 hours pre-injection
- Storage: Refrigerate 2-8°C, 30 days
Expected Timeline
Week 1-2
Improved sleep quality, deeper REM. Mild water retention as GH levels rise.
Week 3-4
Enhanced recovery. Skin and nail improvements. Increased energy.
Week 5-8
Body composition changes. Fat loss. Joint comfort. IGF-1 measurably elevated.
Week 9-12
Peak benefits. Lean mass, anti-aging skin effects. Sustained recovery.
Side Effects
Common
- Mild water retention (transient)
- Mild increased hunger
- Tingling in extremities
- Vivid dreams
- Injection site redness
Serious
- Persistent numbness/tingling
- Significant edema
- Blood sugar dysregulation
Stacking
Compatible
- CJC-1295: Gold standard GHRH+GHRP combo
- Sermorelin: Alternative GHRH pairing
- Tesamorelin: Visceral fat-targeting GHRH
- BPC-157: Recovery support
Notes
- Best results paired with a GHRH analog
- Preferred over GHRP-2/6 for fewer sides
- Avoid MK-677 on same days
Blood Work
| Panel | Markers | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| GH Axis | IGF-1, GH serum | Baseline, Week 4, 8 |
| Metabolic | Fasting glucose, insulin | Baseline, Week 8 |
| Basic | CBC, CMP | Baseline, Week 8 |
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