Description

Ipamorelin is a synthetic peptide that functions as a Growth Hormone Secretagogue (GHS). It mimics the action of ghrelin, a natural hormone that stimulates hunger and promotes the release of growth hormone. Ipamorelin is known for its selectivity in stimulating GH release without significantly increasing the levels of other hormones such as cortisol or prolactin. This selectivity reduces the risk of side effects and makes Ipamorelin a popular choice for those seeking to increase GH levels. (1)

Male hypogonadism, characterized by reduced testosterone levels, significantly impacts quality of life and overall health, often exacerbated by conditions like obesity and metabolic syndrome. While testosterone replacement therapy remains the standard treatment, its effectiveness can vary, particularly regarding body composition changes. In response, growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) have been explored as potential adjuncts in managing hypogonadism. This review focuses on the use of GHS, including sermorelin, growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRP)-2, GHRP-6, ibutamoren, and ipamorelin. These agents stimulate growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) production, potentially improving body composition and alleviating symptoms such as fat gain and muscular atrophy. (2)

(1) Ishida, J., Saitoh, M., Ebner, N., Springer, J., Anker, S. D., & von Haehling, S. (2020). Growth hormone secretagogues: history, mechanism of action, and clinical development. JCSM Rapid Communications, 3(1), 25-37.

(2) Sinha, D. K., Balasubramanian, A., Tatem, A. J., Rivera-Mirabal, J., Yu, J., Kovac, J., Pastuszak, A. W., & Lipshultz, L. I. (2020). Beyond the androgen receptor: the role of growth hormone secretagogues in the modern management of body composition in hypogonadal males. Translational andrology and urology, 9(Suppl 2), S149–S159. https://doi.org/10.21037/tau.2019.11.30

Additional information