IGF-1 DES vs Hexarelin
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.
- Hexarelin is a potent synthetic GHRP and the strongest GH secretagogue in its class per unit dose. It also exhibits unique cardioprotective properties through direct binding to cardiac CD36 receptors, independent of GH release. Its potency is balanced by a tendency to desensitize GH release with prolonged use, making cycling important.
- Half-Life
- ~20–30 minutes (very short — designed for local action)
- ~70 minutes
- Admin Route
- IM, SubQ
- SubQ
- Research
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- —
- Typical Dose
- 20–50 mcg per injection site
- 100–200 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
- Strongest GH pulse per mcg among GHRPs
- Unique direct cardioprotective effects via CD36
- Increased IGF-1 and muscle anabolism
- Accelerated recovery from training
- Bone density support
- Anti-aging via GH axis
- Potential cardiac rehabilitation 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
- Water retention
- Elevated cortisol
- Elevated prolactin (more pronounced than other GHRPs)
- Receptor desensitization with continuous use
- +1 more
- Stacks With
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