At a Glance
Quickcomparison
Dose Range
Alexamorelin
100–300 mcg
Ipamorelin
Frequency
Multiple times daily
Administration
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle Length
4-6 weeks
8-12 weeks
Onset Speed
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Evidence Level
Limited human trials
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
Efficacy
Benefitratings
Growth Hormone Release
Hormone Axis Stimulation
Research & Innovation
GH Selectivity
Recovery Support
Safety Profile
Technical Data
Compoundspecifications
Molecular Formula
C50H63N13O7
Molecular Weight
958.1 g/mol
Half-Life
Estimated 1-3 hours (rapidly metabolized to hexarelin)
Bioavailability
Active IV and orally; subcutaneous bioavailability expected moderate to good
CAS Number
196808-85-2
C38H49N9O5
711.85 g/mol
2 hours
High when injected subcutaneously
170851-70-4
Protocols
Dosingtiers
starting
1.0 mcg/kg
Single bolus per test session
Single-dose research study
Alexamorelin is a research growth-hormone-releasing peptide. In the main human study it was given as a single shot into a vein. The lower 1.0 mcg/kg dose raised growth hormone levels. [1]
standard
2.0 mcg/kg
The higher IV dose used in the same human study produced a stronger growth hormone response. [1]
20 mg (about 300 mcg/kg)
Single dose
Alexamorelin also works by mouth. A 20 mg oral dose (roughly 300 mcg/kg) released growth hormone in the human study, showing it stays active when swallowed. [1][3]
100 mcg per injection
2-3 times daily
4-8 weeks
Conservative entry dose; Ipamorelin is a selective GH secretagogue with a ~2 hour half-life, so doses are split through the day [1][2]. Used in research and practice to assess tolerance before titrating up.
200 mcg per injection
Most commonly cited research/practice dose; gives a meaningful pulsatile GH release without raising cortisol or prolactin at standard doses [1][2].
advanced
300 mcg per injection
3 times daily
Upper end of the commonly used range; total daily exposure split across three injections. Used in practice by experienced users [1].
Applications
Bestsuited for
Muscle Builders and Athletes
Alexamorelin's potent GH release makes it ideal for those serious about muscle gains. Its stronger ACTH response compared to hexarelin provides additional recovery benefits, though the cortisol elevation requires monitoring. The oral option is convenient for athletes avoiding injections, though subcutaneous injection remains most practical.
Research-Focused Peptide Users
If you're exploring next-generation GHS compounds, alexamorelin offers a fascinating case study: it's a prodrug that becomes hexarelin in your body, offering a unique window into peptide metabolism. This makes it valuable for understanding how compound modifications affect potency and half-life.
Synergistic Stack Enthusiasts
Alexamorelin shines when stacked with GHRH, creating synergistic GH release that exceeds either alone. It also pairs well with recovery-focused peptides like BPC-157, making it the centerpiece of comprehensive growth protocols.
Clean GH Boost Seekers
If you want the benefits of increased growth hormone without spiking cortisol or other stress hormones, Ipamorelin is uniquely selective. Unlike GHRP-2 or GHRP-6, it won't raise your cortisol levels even at doses 200 times higher than needed for GH release.
Recovery-Focused Athletes
Ipamorelin shines for athletes who want better recovery between training sessions. The GH boost helps repair muscle tissue faster, and since it doesn't mess with other hormones, you can use it consistently without the rollercoaster effects.
Anti-Aging Enthusiasts
Growth hormone naturally declines as we age, contributing to muscle loss, fat gain, and reduced vitality. Ipamorelin offers a gentle way to restore more youthful GH levels without the risks of actual HGH therapy.
Those Recovering from Steroid Use
Research shows Ipamorelin can help counteract the muscle and bone-weakening effects of glucocorticoid medications. If you've been on steroids for medical reasons, this peptide may help you rebuild what you've lost.
Sideeffects
Common
Increased Hunger
Water Retention
Injection Site Reactions
Uncommon
Cortisol-Related Mood Changes
Joint or Muscle Aches
Serious
Allergic Reaction
Mild headache
Injection site reactions
Water retention
Increased appetite
Tingling in hands or feet
Joint stiffness
Allergic reaction
Research Status
Safety& evidence
FDA Status
Research compound
Safety Overview
Alexamorelin is a research compound with only one small human study (6 subjects), making it much less proven than hexarelin. While it shows promise as a potent GH releaser, the limited human evidence means we don't fully understand long-term effects, optimal dosing in different populations, or rare side effects. Its unique stronger ACTH and aldosterone effects require careful monitoring. Always start low and monitor how your body responds.
Contraindications
xActive malignancy or cancer history (GH stimulation concern)
xUncontrolled diabetes or severe glucose dysregulation
xSevere cardiovascular disease or unmanaged hypertension
xPregnancy or nursing
Ipamorelin has shown a favorable safety profile in both animal and human studies. What makes it stand out is its remarkable selectivity—it releases growth hormone without significantly affecting cortisol, ACTH, or other hormones. In clinical trials, it was well-tolerated with mostly mild, temporary side effects. Phase 2 trials in patients recovering from surgery showed no significant safety concerns compared to placebo.
xActive cancer or history of cancer
xPregnancy or breastfeeding
xPituitary disorders or tumors
xKnown allergy to peptide components
xChildren and adolescents (growth plates still open)
Decision Guide
Which isright for you?
Choose Alexamorelin if...
Maximizing growth hormone release for muscle building
Cycling with other peptides for synergistic GH stack effects
Research into next-generation GHS compounds
Understanding prodrug metabolism in peptide design
Choose Ipamorelin if...
Muscle recovery and growth
Anti-aging and vitality
Body composition improvement
Sleep quality enhancement