Ipamorelin

Ipamorelin Acetate · NNC 26-0161

Rank#999
Growth HormoneNot ApprovedPhase IIResearchSubQ

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

Selective GH release without cortisol or prolactin elevation
Mimics natural pulsatile GH secretion patterns
Studied for improved body composition and lean mass
Researched for sleep quality enhancement via GH pulse timing
Often combined with CJC-1295 for synergistic GH elevation

Clinical Evidence Summary

Research Pipeline

Preclinical
Animal
Phase I
Phase II
Phase III
Approved

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 PubMed

Therapeutic Peptides in Orthopaedics: Applications, Challenges, and Future Directions.

Review

Rahman OF, Lee SJ, Seeds WA · Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Global research & reviews · 2026

PMID: 41490200

Injectable Peptide Therapy: A Primer for Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Physicians.

Review

Mayfield CK, Bolia IK, Feingold CL, et al. · The American journal of sports medicine · 2026

PMID: 41476424

The 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.

Review

Lu Z, Ngan MP, Liu JYH, et al. · Physiology & behavior · 2024

PMID: 39043357

The influence of ghrelin agonist ipamorelin acetate on the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis in a cichlid fish, Oreochromis mossambicus.

In Vitro

Gouda M, Ganesh CB · Animal reproduction science · 2024

PMID: 38996787

Beyond the androgen receptor: the role of growth hormone secretagogues in the modern management of body composition in hypogonadal males.

Review

Sinha DK, Balasubramanian A, Tatem AJ, et al. · Translational andrology and urology · 2020

PMID: 32257855

Side Effects & Safety

Mild headache at initiation
Transient water retention
Tingling or numbness in extremities
Mild fatigue or drowsiness post-injection

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.