Description
Ipamorelin: A History and Overview
Ipamorelin is a synthetic peptide classified as a growth hormone secretagogue, designed to stimulate the release of growth hormone (GH) from the pituitary gland. As a relatively recent addition to the family of peptides with growth-promoting properties, Ipamorelin has gained attention for its potential benefits in various aspects of health and wellness.
This article explores the discovery, structure, mechanisms of action, potential benefits, and current research on Ipamorelin, drawing insights from scientific literature.
Ipamorelin Chemical Composition
- Chemical Structure: Ipamorelin is a pentapeptide with the amino acid sequence Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2.
- Synonyms: IpoMarelin;IpaMorelin Acetate;Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2;IPAMORELIN(1MG);IPAMORELIN(5MG);2-Methylalanyl-L-histidyl-3-(2-naphthyl)-D-alanyl-D-phenylalanyl-L-lysinamide;L-Lysinamide,2-methylalanyl-L-histidyl-3-(2-naphthalenyl)-D-alanyl-D-phenylalanyl-;NNC-26-0161
- CAS No: 170851-70-4
- Molecular Formula: The molecular formula for Ipamorelin reflects its structure, indicating the presence and arrangement of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, and possibly sulfur atoms.
- Stability: Ipamorelin is relatively stable at room temperature but is best stored in lyophilized form at low temperatures (below -18°C) to maintain its potency over time. Once reconstituted with sterile water or saline, it should be used within a short period and stored in the refrigerator.
- Solubility: It is soluble in water and saline, which facilitates its administration through subcutaneous or intravenous injections.
- Mechanism of Action: Ipamorelin stimulates the ghrelin receptor, mimicking the action of the body’s own growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). This leads to an increase in the natural secretion of growth hormone by the pituitary gland, with minimal effect on the release of other hormones such as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), cortisol, and prolactin.
- Therapeutic Use: While not approved for any specific medical treatment in humans by regulatory agencies like the FDA, Ipamorelin is researched for its potential to promote growth hormone levels, which could be beneficial for anti-aging purposes, muscle growth, fat loss, and recovery from injuries.
- Efficacy: Research and clinical studies, primarily in animals, suggest that Ipamorelin can effectively increase growth hormone levels, supporting potential therapeutic benefits in growth hormone deficiency, muscle wasting, and metabolic health improvement.
- Side Effects: Ipamorelin is considered to have a favorable safety profile, with fewer side effects compared to other growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs). Common side effects, if any, are mild and may include injection site reactions and transient increases in hunger.
- Safety Profile: Preclinical and clinical data suggest Ipamorelin is one of the safest GHRPs, with a low risk of causing significant changes in cortisol or prolactin levels at therapeutic dosages.
- Legal Status and Availability: Ipamorelin is often marketed as a research chemical or used in compounding pharmacies to create customized medications, not approved by the FDA for medical use as of my last update.
- Shelf Life: 36 months
- Appearance: White lipolyzed powder puck.
Discovery and Structure
Ipamorelin was developed through a systematic process of designing peptides with enhanced selectivity and efficacy in stimulating growth hormone release. It belongs to the growth hormone secretagogue family, which includes compounds designed to stimulate the production and release of growth hormone.
The structure of Ipamorelin is a pentapeptide composed of five amino acids: Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2. This specific sequence imparts Ipamorelin with its unique properties, allowing it to interact selectively with the growth hormone secretagogue receptor.
Mechanisms of Action
The primary mechanism of action of Ipamorelin lies in its ability to bind to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), located in the pituitary gland. Through this interaction, Ipamorelin stimulates the release of growth hormone. Unlike some other peptides in the same category, Ipamorelin does not significantly affect cortisol or prolactin levels, making it a more selective option for promoting growth hormone release.
- Growth Hormone Stimulation: Ipamorelin activates the GHSR, leading to increased secretion of growth hormone from the pituitary gland. This surge in growth hormone levels has various physiological effects on tissues and organs throughout the body.
- Muscle Growth: The heightened levels of growth hormone induced by Ipamorelin contribute to muscle growth and development. This makes it a point of interest for individuals engaged in fitness and bodybuilding.
- Fat Metabolism: Growth hormone plays a role in fat metabolism, promoting the breakdown of stored fats into free fatty acids. Ipamorelin’s ability to stimulate growth hormone release may contribute to improved fat metabolism and potentially aid in weight management.
- Connective Tissue Health: Growth hormone is known to have positive effects on connective tissues, such as tendons and ligaments. Ipamorelin’s impact on growth hormone release may support the health and integrity of these tissues.
Potential Benefits of Ipamorelin
- Selective Growth Hormone Stimulation: Ipamorelin’s selectivity in stimulating growth hormone release without significantly affecting cortisol or prolactin levels makes it an attractive option for those seeking the benefits of increased growth hormone without some of the potential side effects associated with other peptides.
- Improved Body Composition: The promotion of muscle growth and fat metabolism by Ipamorelin may contribute to improved body composition, with an emphasis on lean muscle mass and reduced body fat.
- Enhanced Exercise Performance: The potential for increased muscle growth and improved fat metabolism may translate into enhanced exercise performance for individuals incorporating Ipamorelin into their fitness routines.
- Anti-Aging Effects: Growth hormone has been associated with anti-aging effects, including improved skin elasticity, increased bone density, and enhanced cognitive function. While more research is needed, Ipamorelin’s role in stimulating growth hormone release suggests potential anti-aging benefits.
Current Research and Clinical Trials
Research on Ipamorelin is ongoing, with a focus on understanding its mechanisms of action and exploring its potential applications. Some notable areas of investigation include:
- Growth Hormone Deficiency: Clinical trials have explored the use of Ipamorelin in individuals with growth hormone deficiency. Results have shown that Ipamorelin effectively stimulates growth hormone release, making it a potential therapeutic option for those with deficient growth hormone production.
- Body Composition and Metabolism: Studies have investigated the impact of Ipamorelin on body composition, including muscle mass and fat metabolism. Positive effects on these parameters suggest potential applications in the management of conditions associated with altered body composition.
- Bone Health: Given the influence of growth hormone on bone density, research has explored the effects of Ipamorelin on bone health. Studies suggest that increased growth hormone levels induced by Ipamorelin may contribute to improved bone density.
Challenges and Considerations
While Ipamorelin shows promise in various applications, there are challenges and considerations to keep in mind:
- Individual Variability: Responses to Ipamorelin may vary among individuals, and factors such as age, genetics, and overall health may influence outcomes. Individualized dosing and monitoring are crucial for safe and effective use.
- Safety and Side Effects: While Ipamorelin is generally considered safe, potential side effects may include headaches, dizziness, and increased appetite. Long-term safety and potential effects on other aspects of health need further investigation.
- Regulatory Status: The regulatory status of Ipamorelin varies across countries, and its use may be subject to legal restrictions. Individuals should be aware of regulatory guidelines and seek guidance from healthcare professionals.
Ipamorelin Research Studies
1. Growth hormone-releasing peptides: clinical and basic aspects – This study focuses on the clinical and basic aspects of growth hormone-releasing peptides like Ipamorelin.
(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8950613/)
2. Ipamorelin, a new growth-hormone-releasing peptide, induces longitudinal bone growth in rats – This research investigates the effects of Ipamorelin on longitudinal bone growth rate, body weight, and GH release in rats. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10629165/)
3. The first selective growth hormone secretagogue – This study describes the development and pharmacology of Ipamorelin, highlighting its GH releasing potency and efficacy.
(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9849822/)
4. Prospective, randomized, controlled, proof-of-concept study of the Ghrelin mimetic ipamorelin for the management of postoperative ileus in bowel resection patients – This research evaluates the safety and efficacy of Ipamorelin in treating postoperative ileus following abdominal surgery.
(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19289567/)
5. Tesamorelin & Ipamorelin: Studying their Potential in GH Production – This study explores the combination of Tesamorelin and Ipamorelin and their potential effects on growth hormone production, especially in the context of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. (https://biotechpeptides.com/tesamorelin-ipamorelin-studying-their-potential-in-gh-production/)
6. Efficacy of ipamorelin, a novel ghrelin mimetic, in a rodent model of postoperative ileus – This study suggests that Ipamorelin accelerates gastric emptying in a rodent model through a ghrelin receptor-mediated mechanism. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23739196/)
7. Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic Modeling of Ipamorelin – Focuses on examining the PK and PD of Ipamorelin in healthy volunteers. (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11095-009-9925-2)
8. Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor: Molecular Imaging Agents Development – Reviews a decade’s progress in developing imaging agents targeting the GHS receptor, with implications for Ipamorelin research. (https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1536012120952623)
9. Attenuation of Visceral and Somatic Nociception by Ghrelin Mimetics – This study explores the potential of ghrelin mimetics like Ipamorelin in reducing pain.
(https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33104445/)
10. The Growth Hormone Secretagogue Ipamorelin Counteracts Glucocorticoid-Induced Decrease in Bone Formation – Investigates Ipamorelin’s potential to counteract the negative effects of glucocorticoids on bone formation. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11735244/)