Growth Hormone
    Preclinical / Research

    Ipamorelin

    Also known as: NNC 26-0161, ipamorelin acetate

    Selective ghrelin receptor agonist that triggers pulsatile growth hormone release without significantly elevating cortisol or prolactin.

    Research overview

    Ipamorelin, also known as NNC 26-0161 or ipamorelin acetate, is a growth hormone secretagogue that has garnered significant attention in research settings for its selective mechanism of action. This compound functions as a selective agonist of the ghrelin receptor, which belongs to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor family. In research models, ipamorelin demonstrates a unique ability to stimulate the pituitary gland to release growth hormone whilst maintaining minimal impact on cortisol or prolactin levels. This selective action distinguishes it from other growth hormone secretagogues and represents a key area of scientific interest. Studies indicate that this selectivity may contribute to promoting muscle-regulatory pathways and enhancing fat metabolism in laboratory settings. Research has documented several primary effects of ipamorelin in experimental models, including increased growth hormone release, enhanced muscle-regulatory pathways, improved fat metabolism, and reduced recovery time following exercise procedures. Notably, the compound's minimal impact on cortisol levels has been consistently observed across studies, which is particularly relevant for researchers investigating growth hormone pathways without the confounding effects of elevated stress hormones. The evidence grade for ipamorelin is classified as B, based on several small human trials that have demonstrated the compound's ability to increase growth hormone levels without significantly affecting cortisol or prolactin. However, researchers note that larger and more comprehensive studies are needed to fully understand the long-term effects and complete safety profile of this growth hormone secretagogue in various research applications.

    Mechanism of action

    Selective GHS-R1a agonist mimicking ghrelin at the pituitary, releasing endogenous GH while sparing ACTH and prolactin pathways.

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