For Research Use Only – Not for Human Consumption. For Research Use Only. Not for Human Consumption. Not for diagnostic, therapeutic or medical use. Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.
Ipamorelin Explained: A Selective Ghrelin-Receptor Peptide
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Key points
- A selective agonist of the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a).
- A Phase 2 trial in bowel recovery after surgery did not reach statistical significance.
- Not FDA-approved and prohibited in sport by WADA.
What it is
Ipamorelin is a pentapeptide, meaning it has five amino acid units, with a molecular weight near 712 daltons. It acts on the ghrelin receptor, formally called GHS-R1a, and is described as selective for it.
How researchers study it
It is used in receptor-pharmacology work and in models of the growth-hormone axis, where the focus is how a signal at the pituitary leads to the body's own growth hormone release. Comparisons with other secretagogues are a common topic.
What the evidence shows
Human data are limited. A Phase 2 trial in people recovering from bowel surgery did not show a statistically significant result. The rest of the literature is early pharmacology.
Regulatory status
Ipamorelin is not FDA-approved for any use, and the World Anti-Doping Agency prohibits it.
