IGF-1 DES vs GHRP-2
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- 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.
- GHRP-2 is a potent synthetic hexapeptide that stimulates growth hormone release by activating ghrelin receptors in the pituitary and hypothalamus. It produces one of the strongest GH pulses among GHRPs, though unlike Ipamorelin it does cause modest increases in cortisol and prolactin.
- Half-Life
- ~20–30 minutes (very short — designed for local action)
- 15–60 minutes
- Admin Route
- IM, SubQ
- SubQ, Intranasal
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 20–50 mcg per injection site
- 100–300 mcg
- Frequency
- Once daily, post-workout
- 2–3 times 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
- Strong GH pulse stimulation
- Increased IGF-1 levels
- Enhanced muscle growth and recovery
- Improved fat metabolism
- Better sleep quality
- Increased bone density
- Enhanced appetite (less pronounced than GHRP-6)
- Anti-aging effects via GH axis optimization
- 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
- Increased appetite
- Water retention
- Elevated cortisol (modest)
- Elevated prolactin (modest)
- +2 more
- Stacks With
- —
- —