What is Ipamorelin?
Ipamorelin is a pentapeptide (Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2) and selective growth hormone secretagogue developed by Novo Nordisk. It acts on ghrelin receptors (GHSR-1a) to stimulate pulsatile GH release from the pituitary gland. Research interest in Ipamorelin is high due to its high selectivity — it does not significantly stimulate cortisol, prolactin or ACTH release at typical research doses, unlike earlier GHRP compounds like GHRP-6.
⚠ Research Purposes Only: Ipamorelin is a research chemical not approved for human consumption by the FDA or MHRA.
Ipamorelin vs GHRP-6 — Selectivity Research
| Parameter | Ipamorelin | GHRP-6 |
|---|---|---|
| GH Release | Strong (selective) | Strong |
| Cortisol Stimulation | Minimal at research doses | Moderate increase |
| Prolactin Stimulation | Minimal | Moderate increase |
| Hunger Effect | Mild | Strong (ghrelin pathway) |
| Selectivity Profile | High | Low–Moderate |
Published Research Findings
Raun et al. (1998) established Ipamorelin's selectivity profile in animal models, showing potent GH release without significant cortisol or ACTH stimulation. This selectivity made it a preferred compound for subsequent GH research.
Research has also examined Ipamorelin in combination with GHRH analogues (particularly CJC-1295), as the two compounds act on different receptors and produce synergistic GH release in research models.
Nasal Spray vs Injectable Ipamorelin Research
Ipamorelin is a peptide and is susceptible to enzymatic degradation in the gastrointestinal tract, making oral administration ineffective. Research uses either subcutaneous injection or intranasal administration. BC9 offers Ipamorelin in nasal spray format, which is increasingly popular among USA and UK researchers seeking a non-injectable option.
| Route | Bioavailability | Onset | Practical Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subcutaneous Injection | High (~100%) | 15–30 min | Standard research route |
| Intranasal | Lower than injection | 20–40 min | Non-invasive option |
🔬 Where to Source Ipamorelin for Research (USA & UK)
For USA and UK researchers, BC9 is one of the most reliable sources with third-party certificates of analysis. All products are for research purposes only and not approved for human consumption.
Visit BC9 →⚠ Affiliate link — use code Tomjunkie for 20% off. Research purposes only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ipamorelin is a growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates pulsatile GH release from the pituitary. It is notable for its selectivity — minimal cortisol or prolactin stimulation at research doses. For research purposes only.
Ipamorelin is significantly more selective than GHRP-6 — it stimulates GH release without the cortisol and prolactin spikes associated with GHRP-6. This selectivity is a key reason for research interest in Ipamorelin.
Intranasal Ipamorelin has lower bioavailability than subcutaneous injection but is a valid research administration route. BC9 offers a nasal spray format popular with USA and UK researchers.
BC9 stocks Ipamorelin including nasal spray format with certificates of analysis. For research purposes only.