Defining pharmacology of ipamorelin
Raun K, et al. · European Journal of Endocrinology · 1998 · Foundational
The defining pharmacology paper; characterises ipamorelin's potency and its surprising lack of ACTH/cortisol release even at high doses.
Growth-hormone secretagogue (ghrelin/GHS-R agonist)
The first highly selective GH secretagogue.
At a glance
Overview
Selective ghrelin-receptor agonist that stimulates growth-hormone release with minimal effect on cortisol, prolactin or ACTH — the cleanest hormonal profile among GH secretagogues.
Recent standalone primary research is scarce.
Mechanism
Binds GHS-R1a on pituitary somatotrophs to trigger pulsatile GH release.
Research
Raun K, et al. · European Journal of Endocrinology · 1998 · Foundational
The defining pharmacology paper; characterises ipamorelin's potency and its surprising lack of ACTH/cortisol release even at high doses.
Andersen NB, et al. · Rat model · — · Preclinical
Ipamorelin counteracts glucocorticoid-induced loss of bone formation, supporting anti-catabolic effects.
Johansen PB, et al. · DXA rat studies · — · Preclinical
Demonstrates increased bone mineral content with GH-secretagogue dosing in vivo.
Gobburu JV, et al. · PK/PD modelling · — · Foundational
Models the GH-release kinetics that underpin dosing rationale.
Various · Narrative review · 2026 · Review
Places ipamorelin within an evidence-tier framework alongside CJC-1295, noting the absence of new human trials.
Evidence summary
Exceptionally well-characterised pharmacology, prized as the most selective growth-hormone secretagogue with a notably clean hormonal profile. A mature, well-understood research tool with a solid foundation for continued study.