Ipamorelin is a synthetic peptide that selectively stimulates growth hormone release without affecting other hormones like cortisol. It is typically administered via subcutaneous injection in doses ranging from 100-250 mcg daily. This protocol guides users through reconstitution and a gradual dosing approach over several weeks.
- Stimulates natural growth hormone (GH) release selectively
- Does not elevate ACTH, cortisol, or prolactin levels
- Administered once daily via subcutaneous injection
- Requires reconstitution with bacteriostatic water
- Cycle length typically 8-12 weeks followed by a break
Reconstitution
Vial strength
5 mg
Bacteriostatic water
3 mL
Concentration
1.67 mg/mL
1 unit = 0.01 mL = 16.7 mcg
- 1Draw 3.0 mL of bacteriostatic water using a sterile syringe.
- 2Carefully inject the water down the inner wall of the Ipamorelin vial, avoiding direct contact with the peptide powder to prevent foaming.
- 3Gently swirl or roll the vial until the peptide is fully dissolved; do not shake vigorously.
- 4Label the reconstituted vial with the date and refrigerate it at 2-8 °C, protecting it from light.
Dosing schedule
| Phase | Dose | On a U-100 syringe |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1-2 | 100 mcg | 6 units (0.06 mL) |
| Weeks 3-4 | 150 mcg | 9 units (0.09 mL) |
| Weeks 5-8 | 200 mcg | 12 units (0.12 mL) |
| Weeks 9-12 | 250 mcg | 15 units (0.15 mL) |
Protocol detail
| Start | Begin with 100 mcg daily and gradually increase the dose by approximately 50 mcg every 1-2 weeks, based on individual tolerance and response. |
|---|---|
| Target | Aim for a daily dose of 200–250 mcg by Weeks 5–12. |
| Frequency | Administer once per day via subcutaneous injection, ideally 30-60 minutes before bedtime for optimal effect. |
| Cycle Length | Follow an 8–12 week cycle, with an option to extend to 16 weeks, always followed by a 2–4 week off-cycle period. |
| Timing | Evening injections are preferred; remember to rotate injection sites regularly. |
Overview at a glance
| Goal | To activate the body's own growth hormone production to support processes like muscle growth, fat reduction, and tissue repair. |
|---|---|
| Schedule | Daily subcutaneous injections for 8–12 weeks (optionally up to 16 weeks), followed by a 2–4 week break to help maintain receptor sensitivity. |
| Dose Range | 100–250 mcg daily, with a gradual increase from the starting dose. 200 mcg is a frequently used maintenance dose. |
| Reconstitution | Reconstitute 5 mg vials with 3.0 mL of bacteriostatic water to achieve a concentration of approximately 1.67 mg/mL, allowing for precise unit measurements. |
| Storage | Lyophilized peptide should be stored refrigerated or frozen; once reconstituted, it must be refrigerated and used within about four weeks. |
How it works
Ipamorelin works by mimicking ghrelin, binding to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR-1a) to prompt the pituitary gland to release natural growth hormone in a pulsatile manner. Unlike some other GH-releasing peptides, it specifically targets GH release without causing an increase in ACTH, cortisol, or prolactin, making it a highly selective option. After subcutaneous administration, GH levels typically peak around 40 minutes and return to baseline within a few hours. This short-acting effect supports physiological GH rhythms, and studies suggest it can be used daily without desensitizing the GH-release mechanisms, though cycling is often advised as a precaution. Ipamorelin also influences gastrointestinal motility through GHSR-1a receptors.
Reported effects
- Supports increases in lean muscle mass
- Enhances fat metabolism and improves body composition
- Aids in recovery and tissue repair
- Highly selective for GH release with minimal side effects on other hormones
- May improve gastric motility and digestive function
Reported side effects
- Occasional mild injection-site reactions (redness, swelling)
- Very rare reports of water retention
- Very rare reports of increased hunger
Storage
Lyophilised (unmixed)
2-8 °C (35.6-46.4 °F) or freeze at -20 °C (-4 °F) in dry, dark conditions
After reconstitution
Refrigerate at 2-8 °C (35.6-46.4 °F) and use within ~4 weeks. For longer storage, freeze aliquots at -20 °C (-4 °F) and avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Supplies
| Peptide vials | Approximately 2 vials for an 8-week cycle, 4 vials for 12 weeks, or 5 vials for 16 weeks (based on 5 mg vials). |
|---|---|
| Insulin Syringes (U-100) | Roughly 56 syringes for 8 weeks, 84 for 12 weeks, or 112 for 16 weeks (1 per day). |
| Bacteriostatic Water (10 mL bottles) | 1 x 10 mL bottle for up to 12 weeks, or 2 x 10 mL bottles for 16 weeks. |
| Alcohol Swabs | Approximately 2 per day for vial and injection site; estimate 2 x 100-count boxes for 8-12 weeks, or 3 x 100-count boxes for 16 weeks. |
Important notes
- Always use a new, sterile insulin syringe for each injection and dispose of it in a sharps container.
- Rotate injection sites (e.g., abdomen, thighs, upper arms) to prevent local irritation.
- Inject slowly and maintain consistent daily timing due to Ipamorelin's short half-life.
- Document daily doses and injection sites to ensure consistency and track progress.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time of day to inject Ipamorelin?
It is generally recommended to inject Ipamorelin 30-60 minutes before bedtime on an empty stomach. This timing aligns with the body's natural nocturnal GH secretion and optimizes its effects.
How long should I cycle Ipamorelin?
A typical Ipamorelin cycle lasts 8-12 weeks, though some protocols extend to 16 weeks. Following a cycle, a 2-4 week break is advised to help resensitize growth hormone receptors.
Will Ipamorelin cause me to retain water like some other growth hormone therapies?
Ipamorelin is highly selective for growth hormone release and is known for having minimal off-target effects. Reports of water retention are very rare with Ipamorelin, unlike some other GH-related compounds.
Can I pre-load syringes with Ipamorelin for convenience?
While convenience may be tempting, it is generally recommended to draw each dose fresh. Pre-loading syringes can expose the peptide to more air and contaminants, potentially affecting its stability and efficacy over time. Always store reconstituted peptide in the vial as directed.
Educational reference only. These figures summarise how Ipamorelin is commonly described in research literature and supplier documentation, including the Ipamorelin listing at peptidesuk4u.co.uk. They are not a prescription, not medical advice, and not a recommendation to self-administer anything.
Related protocols
Ipamorelin (10 mg Vial)
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CJC-1295 DAC (2 mg Vial)
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CJC-1295 DAC + Ipamorelin Stack (CJC-1295 (2 mg) + Ipamorelin (5 mg))
Amplify growth hormone production with this synergistic peptide stack.
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