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ToolsCompareCagrilintide vs IGF-1 LR3

Cagrilintide vs IGF-1 LR3

Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.

GLP-1 / Weight Loss Agonists
Cagrilintide
Anabolic & IGF
IGF-1 LR3
Summary
Cagrilintide is a long-acting amylin analog developed by Novo Nordisk. Amylin is a peptide hormone co-secreted with insulin from pancreatic beta cells. Cagrilintide slows gastric emptying, suppresses glucagon, and reduces appetite via central amylin receptors. In combination with semaglutide (CagriSema), Phase 2 trials achieved approximately 15% body weight reduction. Phase 3 trials (REDEFINE program) are ongoing.
IGF-1 LR3 is a synthetic analog of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 with an extended half-life. It is one of the most potent anabolic peptides available, directly stimulating muscle cell hyperplasia and hypertrophy, and is the downstream mediator of many of GH's anabolic effects.
Half-Life
~7–10 days
20–30 hours
Admin Route
SubQ
SubQ, IM
Research
Typical Dose
0.16 mg → 0.3 mg → 0.6 mg → 1.2 mg → 2.4 mg
40–80 mcg
Frequency
Once weekly
Once daily or split twice daily
Key Benefits
  • ~15% body weight reduction in combination with semaglutide (CagriSema Phase 2)
  • Synergistic appetite suppression complementing GLP-1 receptor agonists
  • Reduces post-meal glucagon excursions improving glycemic control
  • Slows gastric emptying contributing to prolonged satiety
  • Once-weekly dosing via subcutaneous injection
  • Potential for greater weight loss than semaglutide monotherapy
  • Direct muscle hypertrophy via IGF-1R stimulation
  • Muscle hyperplasia (new fiber formation) — unique among peptides
  • Rapid gains in lean muscle mass
  • Accelerated recovery from training and injury
  • Increased nutrient uptake by muscle cells
  • Fat oxidation enhancement
  • Bone density improvement
  • Cartilage and connective tissue repair
Side Effects
  • Nausea (most common, especially during titration)
  • Vomiting
  • Decreased appetite
  • Diarrhea
  • +2 more
  • Hypoglycemia (significant risk — insulin-like activity)
  • Acromegaly-like effects with excessive long-term use
  • Jaw and hand swelling
  • Organ hypertrophy with extreme doses
  • +2 more
Stacks With