IGF-1 LR3 vs Ipamorelin vs MOTS-c
A three-way comparison to help you find the right peptide for your research goals.
IGF-1 LR3
IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3 Insulin-like Growth Factor-1) is a modified version of IGF-1 with extended half-life and enhanced potency. The modifications prevent binding to IGF binding proteins, increasing bioavailability.
Full details →Ipamorelin
Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates the release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland without significantly affecting cortisol or prolactin.
Full details →MOTS-c
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA type-c) is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that plays a key role in metabolic regulation and has emerged as a significant longevity research target.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | IGF-1 LR3 | Ipamorelin | MOTS-c |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Binds to IGF-1 receptors to promote protein synthesis, muscle growth, and fat metabolism. The LR3 modification (13 amino acid extension and arginine substitution) extends half-life from minutes to 20-30 hours. | Acts as a ghrelin mimetic, binding to the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R) in the pituitary to stimulate GH release. Highly selective with minimal effect on other hormones. | Activates AMPK pathway, enhances glucose uptake in skeletal muscle, improves insulin sensitivity, and regulates mitochondrial function. Acts as a metabolic hormone affecting whole-body energy homeostasis. |
| Typical Dosage | Research protocols typically use 20-100mcg daily, often divided into multiple injections or administered bilaterally to target muscles. | Typical dosing ranges from 200-300mcg administered 2-3 times daily, often combined with CJC-1295. | Research protocols typically use 5-10mg administered subcutaneously several times per week. Optimal dosing not yet established. |
| Administration | Intramuscular injection (site-specific growth) or subcutaneous for systemic effects. Often cycled 4-6 weeks on, equal time off. | Subcutaneous injection. Best results when administered fasted or before sleep. Often stacked with GHRH peptides. | Subcutaneous injection. Often combined with exercise protocols as it enhances exercise capacity and metabolic adaptation. |
| Side Effects | Hypoglycemia, joint pain, water retention, potential jaw/hand growth with extended use, and injection site reactions. | Generally well-tolerated. May cause mild headaches, lightheadedness, or increased hunger initially. | Limited human data. Animal studies show good tolerability. May affect energy levels and exercise performance. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
IGF-1 LR3, Ipamorelin, MOTS-c are all commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to IGF-1 LR3:
Unique to Ipamorelin:
Unique to MOTS-c:
Detailed Analysis
Commonalities
Both IGF-1 LR3 and Ipamorelin are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss, Recovery & Healing.
Which Should You Choose?
Ipamorelin has stronger evidence for Fat Loss.
Commonalities
Both IGF-1 LR3 and MOTS-c are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Which Should You Choose?
IGF-1 LR3 has stronger evidence for Muscle Growth.
Commonalities
Both Ipamorelin and MOTS-c are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Which Should You Choose?
Ipamorelin has stronger evidence for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.