Ipamorelin

Overview

Ipamorelin (NNC 26-0161) is a pentapeptide growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) developed by Novo Nordisk. It acts as an agonist at the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a, ghrelin receptor) to stimulate pulsatile growth hormone release from the anterior pituitary. Ipamorelin is distinguished from other GHS compounds by its high selectivity for growth hormone release without significantly affecting cortisol, prolactin, ACTH, or aldosterone levels at physiological GH-stimulating doses. This selectivity has been documented in multiple published studies and makes Ipamorelin a preferred research tool for investigating isolated GH-mediated effects. The compound has been investigated in both preclinical and Phase 2 clinical trial settings.

For research use only · Not FDA/EMA approved · Not for human consumption

Mechanism of Action

Ipamorelin binds to and activates the GHS-R1a (ghrelin receptor) on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary gland, triggering release of stored growth hormone through a calcium-dependent mechanism involving phospholipase C activation and intracellular calcium mobilization. Unlike GHRP-6 or GHRP-2, published studies describe Ipamorelin as having minimal interaction with somatotroph subtypes that co-release ACTH or prolactin. The peptide preserves the natural pulsatile pattern of GH secretion and does not override hypothalamic negative feedback mechanisms (somatostatin). Studies describe synergistic GH release when combined with GHRH analogs such as CJC-1295.

For research use only · Not FDA/EMA approved · Not for human consumption

Key Research Areas

• Selective growth hormone release without cortisol/prolactin elevation
• GHS-R1a receptor pharmacology and selectivity studies
• Bone density and periosteal bone formation in animal models
• Post-operative ileus treatment in Phase 2 clinical trials
• Synergistic GH secretion with GHRH analogs (CJC-1295)
• Body composition effects in preclinical aging models

For research use only · Not FDA/EMA approved · Not for human consumption

Published Studies (6 cited)

For research use only · Not FDA/EMA approved · Not for human consumption

Dosage in Published Research

Published preclinical studies have used Ipamorelin at 0.01–1 mg/kg via subcutaneous or intravenous injection in rodent models. Human Phase 1 studies investigated 0.01–0.1 mg/kg IV. Clinical gastrointestinal studies used subcutaneous doses. When combined with CJC-1295 in research protocols, lower doses of each peptide have been used. All dosing from published literature only.

For research use only · Not FDA/EMA approved · Not for human consumption

Storage & Handling

Store lyophilized Ipamorelin at -20°C. Reconstituted peptide at 2–8°C, use within 21 days. Stable peptide with good aqueous solubility. Handle with sterile technique.

For research use only · Not FDA/EMA approved · Not for human consumption

Safety Profile (Literature Only)

Published clinical and preclinical studies describe Ipamorelin as well-tolerated with a favorable safety profile. The selectivity for GH without cortisol or prolactin elevation is consistently reported across studies. Phase 2 clinical trials for post-operative ileus reported no serious drug-related adverse events. This compound is for laboratory research use only.

For research use only · Not FDA/EMA approved · Not for human consumption