IGF-1 DES vs Prostamax
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.
- Prostamax is a tetrapeptide bioregulator (Lys-Glu-Asp-Pro) developed by Professor Vladimir Khavinson, tissue-specific for the prostate gland. It supports prostate epithelial cell function, promotes normalization of prostate tissue, and is studied for its potential in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and prostate anti-aging. It is one of the more widely used Khavinson bioregulators among men over 40.
- 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
- Supports normalization of prostate tissue architecture
- May reduce prostate enlargement associated with BPH
- Anti-inflammatory effects on prostatic tissue
- Reduces prostate cell apoptosis from oxidative stress
- Potential support in chronic prostatitis
- Anti-aging effects on prostate glandular tissue
- Complementary to conventional BPH therapies
- 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 research
- Mild injection site reactions
- No significant adverse urological events reported at standard doses
- Stacks With
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