New — Free Peptide Starter Guide (2026): 13 chapters, 34 cited studies

Get it free
ToolsCompareIGF-1 LR3 vs Ipamorelin

IGF-1 LR3 vs Ipamorelin

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

Anabolic & IGF
IGF-1 LR3
Growth Hormone Peptides
Ipamorelin
Summary
IGF-1 LR3 is a synthetic analog of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 with an extended half-life. It is one of the most potent anabolic peptides available, directly stimulating muscle cell hyperplasia and hypertrophy, and is the downstream mediator of many of GH's anabolic effects.
Ipamorelin is a selective GHRP (growth hormone releasing peptide) and one of the cleanest GH secretagogues available. It selectively stimulates GH release without significantly raising cortisol, prolactin, or appetite — making it ideal for long-term use and anti-aging protocols.
Half-Life
20–30 hours
2 hours
Admin Route
SubQ, IM
SubQ
Research
Typical Dose
40–80 mcg
100–300 mcg
Frequency
Once daily or split twice daily
Once to twice daily
Key Benefits
  • Direct muscle hypertrophy via IGF-1R stimulation
  • Muscle hyperplasia (new fiber formation) — unique among peptides
  • Rapid gains in lean muscle mass
  • Accelerated recovery from training and injury
  • Increased nutrient uptake by muscle cells
  • Fat oxidation enhancement
  • Bone density improvement
  • Cartilage and connective tissue repair
  • Increases lean muscle mass
  • Enhances fat loss
  • Improves recovery time
  • Strengthens bones and joints
  • Better sleep quality and REM sleep
  • Enhanced skin elasticity
  • Minimal impact on hunger or cortisol
  • No cortisol or prolactin spike
  • Clean GH release suitable for long-term protocols
Side Effects
  • Hypoglycemia (significant risk — insulin-like activity)
  • Acromegaly-like effects with excessive long-term use
  • Jaw and hand swelling
  • Organ hypertrophy with extreme doses
  • +2 more
  • Injection site irritation
  • Temporary water retention (mild)
  • Possible hunger increase (milder than GHRP-6)
  • Numbness or tingling in extremities (rare)
Stacks With