Ipamorelin

evidence score

peptide

Gray Market

50 studies

NNC 26-0161ipamorelin acetate

Ipamorelin is a pentapeptide growth hormone releasing peptide (GHRP) that selectively stimulates GH release with minimal effect on cortisol, prolactin, or appetite — distinguishing it from GHRP-2 and GHRP-6. Works by mimicking ghrelin at GHS-R1a receptors. Typically combined with a GHRH analog (CJC-1295) for synergistic GH pulses. The cleanest GHRP available, making it preferred for long-term anti-aging and recovery protocols.

Evidence

Moderate evidence

Safety

Unknown safety profile

Clinical Status

No formal trials

Research Sync

Feb 19, 2026

Dosing

Typical

200 mcg

100 mcgRange300 mcg

Frequency2–3x/day, fasted (AM, pre-workout, before bed)

Set height & weight in Settings to see your dose.

Pharmacology

Half-life~2 hours

Onset15–30 minutes (GH pulse)

DurationGH pulse 2–3 hours post-injection

Routes

subcutaneous

intramuscular

Evidence Score

Level B — Moderate

50 studies indexed

Scoring Factors

Volume(40%)~34/100

Quality(30%)~40/100

Sample Size(10%)~100/100

Consistency(10%)~100/100

Replication(5%)~100/100

Recency(5%)~100/100

Scores estimated from study counts. Exact breakdown computed after research sync.

Evidence Levels

AScore ≥75 with at least 1 meta-analysis and 3+ RCTs

BScore ≥50 with at least 1 RCT or meta-analysis

CScore ≥25 — observational or animal evidence only

DScore <25 — very limited or preclinical data

Plain-English Snapshot

Ipamorelin is currently categorized as a peptide compound.

Evidence is moderate (63/100): promising signal from 50 indexed studies, but context and population still matter.

Safety scoring is incomplete. Start conservatively and monitor carefully.

Core mechanism

Ghrelin mimetic at GHS-R1a receptors; amplifies GH pulse without raising cortisol or prolactin

Practical Context

Strongest current signals

Level C: While peptide therapy may possess significant therapeutic and regenerative potential, it is critical that orthopaedic and sports medicine providers understand the current lack of evidence to support the clinical use of these peptides.
Level C: This review integrates current mechanistic insights with orthopaedic relevance, emphasizing safety, efficacy, and future directions for responsible integration into musculoskeletal care.
Level D: The results indicate that GHRP-6 protects E11 cells from the viral infection and support the potential of GHRP-6 as an antiviral compound that could contribute to prevent viral diseases in fish farms, a priority for the aquaculture industry.