Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue peptide that stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone (GH) in a pulsatile, physiological manner. It is considered one of the safest and most targeted GH-releasing peptides available, making dosage precision particularly important for achieving optimal results.
How Ipamorelin Works
Ipamorelin is a pentapeptide (5 amino acids) that acts as a ghrelin mimetic, binding to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR) in the pituitary gland. Unlike other GH secretagogues, ipamorelin is highly selective — it stimulates GH release without significantly affecting cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH levels, making it one of the cleanest options in its class.
Ipamorelin Dosage Chart
| Goal | Dose Per Injection | Frequency | Daily Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anti-aging / general wellness | 100-200mcg | 1-2x daily | 100-400mcg |
| Fat loss | 200-300mcg | 2-3x daily | 400-900mcg |
| Muscle building / recovery | 200-300mcg | 2-3x daily | 400-900mcg |
| Sleep improvement | 100-200mcg | 1x before bed | 100-200mcg |
| Injury recovery | 200-300mcg | 2-3x daily | 400-900mcg |
Reconstitution Guide
Ipamorelin typically comes in 2mg or 5mg vials. Here's how to calculate your doses:
2mg Vial
| BAC Water Added | Concentration | 100mcg Dose | 200mcg Dose | 300mcg Dose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0mL | 2000mcg/mL | 5 units | 10 units | 15 units |
| 2.0mL | 1000mcg/mL | 10 units | 20 units | 30 units |
5mg Vial
| BAC Water Added | Concentration | 100mcg Dose | 200mcg Dose | 300mcg Dose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0mL | 2500mcg/mL | 4 units | 8 units | 12 units |
| 2.5mL | 2000mcg/mL | 5 units | 10 units | 15 units |
| 5.0mL | 1000mcg/mL | 10 units | 20 units | 30 units |
Optimal Timing Protocol
Timing is critical with ipamorelin because food intake — particularly fats and carbohydrates — can blunt the GH response. Follow these guidelines:
| Protocol | Timing | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Morning dose | Upon waking, before eating | Fasted state maximizes GH pulse |
| Post-workout dose | Immediately after training | Amplifies natural post-exercise GH surge |
| Evening dose | 30-60 min before sleep, 2+ hours after dinner | Enhances nocturnal GH secretion |
Key rule: Administer on an empty stomach and wait at least 20-30 minutes before eating. Avoid high-fat and high-sugar meals for at least 30 minutes post-injection.
Ipamorelin + CJC-1295 Stack
Ipamorelin is frequently combined with CJC-1295 (without DAC) for a synergistic GH-releasing effect. The combination produces larger, more sustained GH pulses:
| Compound | Dose Per Injection | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ipamorelin | 200-300mcg | 2-3x daily | GHRP component |
| CJC-1295 (no DAC) | 100-200mcg | 2-3x daily | GHRH component |
| Combined | Mixed in same syringe | 2-3x daily | Synergistic effect |
Cycle Length and Structure
- Beginner cycle: 8-12 weeks at 100-200mcg, 1-2x daily
- Standard cycle: 12-16 weeks at 200-300mcg, 2-3x daily
- Extended protocol: Some use ipamorelin continuously for 3-6 months with periodic bloodwork
- Off period: 4-8 weeks between cycles (though some protocols run longer)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much ipamorelin should I inject per dose?
The standard ipamorelin dose is 200-300mcg per injection, administered 2-3 times daily for a total daily dose of 400-900mcg. Beginners often start with 100-200mcg per injection to assess tolerance. The saturation dose (the point beyond which additional peptide doesn't increase GH release proportionally) is approximately 1mcg/kg of body weight per injection.
When is the best time to take ipamorelin?
The most effective times are upon waking (fasted), post-workout, and 30-60 minutes before bed. The bedtime dose is particularly valuable as it amplifies the body's natural nocturnal GH pulse. Always inject on an empty stomach — food, especially fats and carbohydrates, significantly blunts the GH response.
Is ipamorelin better alone or stacked with CJC-1295?
The combination of ipamorelin with CJC-1295 (without DAC) is generally considered more effective than either peptide alone. Ipamorelin acts as a GHRP (growth hormone releasing peptide) while CJC-1295 acts as a GHRH (growth hormone releasing hormone analog), and together they produce a larger, more physiological GH pulse than either compound individually.
Conclusion
Ipamorelin is one of the most user-friendly growth hormone secretagogues available, with a clean side effect profile and predictable dosing. Whether used alone or stacked with CJC-1295, proper dosing and timing on an empty stomach are the keys to maximizing its growth hormone-releasing potential.