Understand the source comparison
Peptides Help with Sarcopenia: IGF-1 Analogs vs GHRPs
GHRPs (GHRP-2, GHRP-6, Ipamorelin) Stimulate pulsatile GH release via ghrelin receptor 100–300mcg 2–3×/day 8–12% lean mass increase in older adults (clinical trial data) Requires pulsatile dosing to avoid receptor desensitization; hunger stimulation varies by
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- GHRPs (GHRP-2, GHRP-6, Ipamorelin)
- Stimulate pulsatile GH release via ghrelin receptor
- 100–300mcg 2–3×/day
- 8–12% lean mass increase in older adults (clinical trial data)
- Requires pulsatile dosing to avoid receptor desensitization; hunger stimulation varies by analog
- IGF-1 LR3
- Direct mTOR activation in muscle tissue, bypasses hepatic IGF-1 production
- 20–80mcg/day post-workout
- 10–15% lean mass increase when combined with resistance training
- Longer half-life (20–30 hours) allows once-daily dosing; insulin sensitivity may decline with chronic use
- MK 677 (Ibutamoren)
- Oral ghrelin mimetic, elevates basal GH and IGF-1 continuously
- 10–25mg/day oral
- 6–10% lean mass increase, sustained across months
- Non-peptide but functions as GH secretagogue; increases appetite and fasting glucose in some users
- CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin Stack
- CJC extends GH pulse duration; ipamorelin triggers pulse initiation
- CJC 1–2mg/week + Ipamorelin 200mcg 2×/day
- 12–18% lean mass increase in controlled studies
- Synergistic effect creates both amplitude and frequency of GH pulses; fewer side effects than GHRP-6
- Professional Assessment
- GHRPs restore age-appropriate GH pulsatility; IGF-1 analogs bypass the pituitary entirely and act directly on muscle. Choose based on tolerance for injection frequency and metabolic health status
- Variable
- Evidence strongest for GHRP + resistance training combinations
- Peptides complement. But do not replace. Resistance training and adequate protein intake (1.6–2.2g/kg/day)