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ToolsCompareIGF-1 DES vs 5-Amino-1MQ

IGF-1 DES vs 5-Amino-1MQ

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

Anabolic & IGF
IGF-1 DES
Fat Loss & Metabolic
5-Amino-1MQ
Summary
IGF-1 DES (also written DES(1-3)IGF-1) is a truncated form of IGF-1 missing the first three amino acids of the N-terminus. This structural change dramatically reduces its affinity for IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs), meaning a far greater fraction remains in its free, active form. IGF-1 DES is estimated to be 10x more potent than standard IGF-1 LR3 at the receptor level locally, making it particularly effective for site-specific muscle growth when injected intramuscularly.
5-Amino-1MQ is a small-molecule NNMT (Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase) inhibitor that raises intracellular NAD+ levels and promotes fat burning. It is notable for targeting adipose tissue directly, reducing fat cell size and number while increasing metabolic rate.
Half-Life
~20–30 minutes (very short — designed for local action)
Estimated 4–8 hours
Admin Route
IM, SubQ
Oral
Research
Typical Dose
20–50 mcg per injection site
50–100 mg
Frequency
Once daily, post-workout
Once to twice daily
Key Benefits
  • Estimated 10x greater potency at the receptor vs IGF-1 LR3 locally
  • Minimal IGFBP binding — nearly all active upon injection
  • Highly localized muscle growth effect when injected intramuscularly
  • Activates satellite cells for muscle fiber hyperplasia potential
  • Synergistic with GH peptides in post-workout anabolic protocols
  • Shorter half-life reduces systemic exposure vs IGF-1 LR3
  • Useful for site-specific muscle development
  • Raises intracellular NAD+ levels
  • Directly targets adipose tissue for fat reduction
  • Reduces fat cell size and differentiation
  • Increases basal metabolic rate
  • SIRT1 activation for metabolic regulation
  • No stimulant cardiovascular side effects
  • Synergistic with intermittent fasting and caloric restriction
  • May have anti-aging metabolic benefits
Side Effects
  • Hypoglycemia (most significant risk — especially post-workout)
  • Localized muscle swelling at injection site
  • Potential for jaw/organ growth (acromegalic effects) with prolonged high-dose use
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome with high doses
  • +1 more
  • Generally well-tolerated in available studies
  • Mild GI discomfort (rare)
  • Limited long-term human data
Stacks With