Ipamorelin
Ipamorelin Acetate · NNC 26-0161
Popular for:Selective growth hormone release, body composition, sleep quality
44
Total Studies
19
Human Studies
Phase II
Evidence Level
Not Approved
FDA Status
Overview
Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide growth hormone releasing peptide (GHRP) that selectively stimulates growth hormone release from the pituitary gland. Developed in the 1990s by Novo Nordisk, it is considered one of the mildest and most selective GHRPs available.
Unlike older GHRPs such as GHRP-6 and Hexarelin, Ipamorelin does not significantly elevate cortisol, prolactin, or appetite. This selectivity makes it popular in research settings for studying growth hormone dynamics without confounding hormonal effects.
Mechanism of Action
Ipamorelin binds to the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary, triggering growth hormone release in a pulsatile fashion that mimics natural secretion patterns. It does not affect other pituitary hormones at typical research concentrations, which distinguishes it from less selective GHRPs.
Key Research Benefits
Clinical Evidence Summary
Research Pipeline
44
Total Studies
19
Human Studies
Not FDA-approved. Widely used in research settings. Previously compounded by 503A/503B pharmacies; FDA Category 2 status under review with potential Category 1 reinstatement per RFK Jr. announcement (Feb 2026).
Key Studies / PubMed References
44 studies found on PubMed · showing top 25 by relevance
View all on PubMedTherapeutic Peptides in Orthopaedics: Applications, Challenges, and Future Directions.
ReviewRahman OF, Lee SJ, Seeds WA · Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Global research & reviews · 2026
PMID: 41490200Injectable Peptide Therapy: A Primer for Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Physicians.
ReviewMayfield CK, Bolia IK, Feingold CL, et al. · The American journal of sports medicine · 2026
PMID: 41476424The growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a agonists, anamorelin and ipamorelin, inhibit cisplatin-induced weight loss in ferrets: Anamorelin also exhibits anti-emetic effects via a central mechanism.
ReviewLu Z, Ngan MP, Liu JYH, et al. · Physiology & behavior · 2024
PMID: 39043357The influence of ghrelin agonist ipamorelin acetate on the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis in a cichlid fish, Oreochromis mossambicus.
In VitroGouda M, Ganesh CB · Animal reproduction science · 2024
PMID: 38996787Beyond the androgen receptor: the role of growth hormone secretagogues in the modern management of body composition in hypogonadal males.
ReviewSinha DK, Balasubramanian A, Tatem AJ, et al. · Translational andrology and urology · 2020
PMID: 32257855Side Effects & Safety
Known Interactions
No curated interaction entry is live for Ipamorelin yet.
Until the interaction table is fully populated, use the interaction checker and related peptides below to explore adjacent compounds and likely research pairings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Research Disclaimer
This page is for research and educational purposes only. The information presented is based on published scientific literature and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Ipamorelin is not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The studies referenced are linked to their original PubMed sources for verification.