Ipamorelin is a synthetic growth hormone–releasing peptide (GHRP) studied for its ability to stimulate endogenous growth hormone (GH) secretion through targeted receptor signaling. It is known in research settings for being more selective and milder than earlier GHRPs.
Rather than providing GH directly, Ipamorelin signals the body to release its own growth hormone in natural pulses.
Ipamorelin binds to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a) located in the:
Hypothalamus
Anterior pituitary
Activation of this receptor:
Triggers GH release from the pituitary
Functions independently of GHRH
Preserves normal GH feedback mechanisms
What makes Ipamorelin unique is its high selectivity for GH release, with minimal activation of other ghrelin-related pathways.
Promotes GH secretion without excessive stimulation
Produces physiologic, pulsatile GH patterns
Little to no effect on cortisol or prolactin in research models
Distinguishes Ipamorelin from older GHRPs
Unlike ghrelin-heavy compounds, Ipamorelin shows minimal appetite stimulation
Considered more “clean” in receptor activity
Useful for studying controlled GH-axis activation
Often paired with GHRH analogs to explore synergistic signaling
Important distinctions:
❌ Not growth hormone itself
❌ Not a GHRH analog (like Sermorelin)
❌ Not a broad ghrelin mimetic (unlike GHRP-2 or Hexarelin)
Ipamorelin is valued in research for its precision and tolerability at the receptor level.
