Ipamorelin vs SNAP-8
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
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 →SNAP-8
SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3) is a cosmetic peptide that reduces the appearance of wrinkles by modulating muscle contraction. It is often called 'topical Botox' though it works through a different mechanism.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Ipamorelin | SNAP-8 |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | 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. | Mimics the N-terminal end of SNAP-25, competing with native SNAP-25 for position in the SNARE complex. This reduces neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction, decreasing muscle contraction. |
| Typical Dosage | Typical dosing ranges from 200-300mcg administered 2-3 times daily, often combined with CJC-1295. | Topical: 3-10% concentration in serums or creams, applied 1-2 times daily to target areas (forehead, crow's feet, etc.). |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection. Best results when administered fasted or before sleep. Often stacked with GHRH peptides. | Topical application only. Should be applied to clean skin. Often formulated with penetration enhancers for better absorption. |
| Side Effects | Generally well-tolerated. May cause mild headaches, lightheadedness, or increased hunger initially. | Generally well-tolerated topically. Rare reports of mild skin irritation. No systemic effects at cosmetic doses. |
| Best For |