Ipamorelin

Ipamorelin Acetate

Evidence & Status

  • Preliminary / Experimental
  • Preliminary

At a Glance

A selective growth hormone secretagogue studied for its ability to prompt the body's own growth hormone release through a specific receptor pathway. Among the most selective compounds of its type, commonly explored in anti-aging and metabolic research.

Plain English

Researchers study Ipamorelin because it appears to stimulate the body's own production of growth hormone through a targeted mechanism, without significantly triggering other hormonal responses commonly associated with similar compounds. Scientists are interested in its potential relevance to age-related changes in body composition, metabolic function, and sleep quality. It is frequently discussed alongside CJC-1295 in the research literature, as the two compounds are thought to work through different but complementary signaling pathways.

Overview

A synthetic ghrelin-receptor agonist characterised in preclinical models for selective growth-hormone-releasing activity. It is not FDA-approved. Preclinical selectivity data do not establish clinical benefit, long-term safety, or a treatment regimen.

Research Summary

Preclinical research characterises ipamorelin as a selective growth-hormone secretagogue with minimal effects on cortisol and prolactin compared with older GHRPs (Raun et al. 1998). One prospective, randomized, controlled Phase II study evaluated ipamorelin for the management of postoperative ileus in bowel resection patients and did not establish significant efficacy versus placebo for that clinical endpoint (Beck et al. 2014). No large randomised outcome trials establish efficacy for age-related, body-composition, sleep, or performance claims. The evidence is limited to preclinical pharmacology and one exploratory clinical trial.

Research Areas

  • Growth hormone release
  • Anti-aging
  • Fat loss
  • Muscle preservation
  • Sleep quality

Safety & Risks

Serious Risks

  • Long-term safety and clinically meaningful outcomes have not been established

Reported Side Effects

  • Water retention
  • Tingling/numbness (especially hands)
  • Temporary hunger increase
  • Injection site irritation
United States
Research only (compounding restrictions in effect post-2023)
United Kingdom
Research only
Australia
Research only
Canada
Research only

Citations & Sources