IGF-1 DES vs Ovagen
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.
- Ovagen is a tripeptide bioregulator (Glu-Asp-Leu) developed by Professor Vladimir Khavinson, primarily targeting liver tissue. It supports hepatocyte function, liver cell regeneration, and protection against hepatic aging and disease. Ovagen is used in protocols for chronic liver disease, hepatoprotection, and metabolic liver conditions including fatty liver disease.
- Half-Life
- ~20–30 minutes (very short — designed for local action)
- Short (minutes); sustained gene-regulatory effects
- Admin Route
- IM, SubQ
- SubQ, Oral
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 20–50 mcg per injection site
- 10 mg per day
- Frequency
- Once daily, post-workout
- Daily for 10–30 days
- 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
- Hepatoprotective effects against toxic, viral, and metabolic liver damage
- Promotes hepatocyte regeneration and liver tissue repair
- May reduce liver fibrosis progression
- Supports liver metabolic function and detoxification capacity
- Anti-aging effects on hepatic tissue
- Useful in NAFLD/MASH supportive protocols
- Compatible with NAD+, glutathione, and BPC-157 in liver health stacks
- 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
- Mild injection site reactions
- No clinically significant hepatotoxicity reported
- Stacks With
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