Structure · schematic
Peptide chain of 5 amino acids · GHRP
Sequence
Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂
Schematic representation of the amino acid chain — not a chemical structural formula. Each node represents one amino acid.
Research areas*
* Contexts in which the peptide has been scientifically studied — not assured or recommended effects.
Mechanism of action
- Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide and a selective agonist at the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a).
- By binding to this receptor in the pituitary and hypothalamus, it stimulates the pulsatile secretion of growth hormone (GH).
- Compared with other GHRP compounds (e.g. GHRP-6), ipamorelin shows lower stimulation of ACTH and cortisol in preclinical studies, which has been regarded as a potential selectivity advantage — clinical confirmation is pending.
Research status
- Ipamorelin has been investigated in preclinical studies for its GH-secretagogue properties and in early clinical studies for tolerability and pharmacokinetic parameters.
- Novo Nordisk developed ipamorelin into the clinical phase but discontinued the programme.
- Subsequent academic and commercial studies remained at an early stage.
- No Phase III data or market approval exist for any indication.
Evidence level
Cited studies
Known risks
- 01GH overstimulation with sustained use (insulin resistance, increased IGF-1)
- 02Headache and flushing reactions (described in early clinical studies)
- 03Unknown long-term safety — no completed clinical programme
- 04Theoretical cancer risk from chronically elevated IGF-1 levels
- 05Legal risk: possession may be punishable under ADBG/DmMV
- 06Product quality cannot be verified from unapproved sources
Frequently asked questions
What is Ipamorelin?
Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide and a selective agonist at the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a).
What type of peptide is Ipamorelin?
Ipamorelin belongs to the GHRP class.
Is Ipamorelin legal in Germany?
Ipamorelin is not approved as a medicine in Germany. Obtaining it outside clinical studies is legally problematic. It is additionally relevant under the German Doping Agent Quantity Ordinance (DmMV).
Where can I buy Ipamorelin?
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. Ipamorelin is "not approved" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
Is Ipamorelin banned in sport (WADA)?
Yes. Ipamorelin is on the WADA Prohibited List and is therefore banned in competitive sport.
What are the known risks of Ipamorelin?
Documented risks include: GH overstimulation with sustained use (insulin resistance, increased IGF-1); Headache and flushing reactions (described in early clinical studies). This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is Ipamorelin?
The evidence is classified as “early clinical studies”. 3 studies are cited on this page.
What is the molecular weight of Ipamorelin?
Ipamorelin has a molar mass of about 711.9 Da, with a plasma half-life of ~2 hours.
Which peptides are related to Ipamorelin?
Closely related entries: CJC-1295, Tesamorelin. A direct side-by-side comparison is available via the compare function.
Related entries
Legal status
Germany
not approvedAustria
not approvedSwitzerland
not approvedEU
not approvedUSA
not approvedCanada
not approvedLegal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Sources & methodology
- 3 peer-reviewed studies cited, linked to PubMed where available.
- Molecular data verified against PubChem and primary literature. PubChem CID 9831659
- Editorial standard: no dosage guidance, no sources, evidence level stated explicitly.
Last editorially reviewed: 1 May 2026
Legal assessment
As a GHRP, ipamorelin is on the WADA Prohibited List (S2) and falls under the German Anti-Doping Act (ADBG). It is covered as a relevant substance class in the German Doping Agent Quantity Ordinance (DmMV). Possession of more than a minor quantity may be punishable under § 4 ADBG. No EU approval. Classified as not to be obtained.
Important notice
This site is intended solely for factual, scientifically oriented information about peptides. It does not constitute medical advice, does not replace a consultation with a doctor and contains no recommendations for use in humans.
This site does not sell any substances and names no sources for unapproved substances. For medical questions, please consult qualified medical professionals.
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