Understand the source comparison
Comparison Table: Ipamorelin vs Other Growth Hormone Secretagogues
Growth hormone secretagogues share the goal of increasing GH output, but their receptor selectivity, side effect profiles, and clinical applications differ substantially. This table compares ipamorelin to three commonly researched alternatives. Ipamorelin Sele
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This page preserves a source comparison for education. It does not add a rating, recommendation or clinical judgment.
- Growth hormone secretagogues share the goal of increasing GH output, but their receptor selectivity, side effect profiles, and clinical applications differ substantially. This table compares ipamorelin to three commonly researched alternatives.
- Ipamorelin
- Selective GHS-R1a agonist
- 13-fold
- None
- ~2 hours
- Cleanest selectivity profile. No ACTH cross-reactivity, ideal for protocols where cortisol elevation is unacceptable
- GHRP-6
- Non-selective GHS-R1a agonist
- 8–12-fold
- +40–60% cortisol
- ~2.5 hours
- Strong GH response but cortisol spike limits metabolic benefit. Appetite stimulation via ghrelin mimicry complicates use in fat loss research
- Hexarelin
- Potent GHS-R1a agonist
- 15–20-fold
- +30–50% cortisol, prolactin variable
- ~70 minutes
- Highest peak GH output but desensitization occurs with chronic dosing. Cardiac GHS-R1a binding raises concerns about long-term cardiovascular effects
- MK 677 (Ibutamoren)
- Orally active GHS-R1a agonist
- 2–3-fold sustained
- Minimal
- 4–6 hours
- Convenience of oral dosing but continuous elevation (not pulsatile). Receptor downregulation reduces efficacy over 8–12 weeks, appetite increase significant