IGF-1 LR3 vs Ipamorelin vs Tesamorelin
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 →Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It is FDA-approved under the brand name Egrifta for reducing excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | IGF-1 LR3 | Ipamorelin | Tesamorelin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | Stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone by binding to GHRH receptors. Increases IGF-1 levels which promotes lipolysis and reduces visceral adipose tissue. |
| 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. | FDA-approved dose: 2mg administered subcutaneously once daily. Research protocols may use various dosing schedules. |
| 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 into the abdomen. Rotate injection sites. Best administered at the same time daily, preferably in the evening. |
| 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. | Common side effects include injection site reactions (erythema, pruritus), joint pain, peripheral edema, and muscle pain. May cause elevated blood glucose. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
IGF-1 LR3, Ipamorelin, Tesamorelin are all commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to IGF-1 LR3:
Unique to Ipamorelin:
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 Tesamorelin are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Which Should You Choose?
IGF-1 LR3 has stronger evidence for Muscle Growth. Tesamorelin has stronger evidence for Fat Loss.
Commonalities
Both Ipamorelin and Tesamorelin are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Which Should You Choose?
Ipamorelin has stronger evidence for Muscle Growth.