Compound guide · The GH axis
Ipamorelin: what it is, its legal status and the evidence
A selective GH secretagogue, almost always sold stacked with CJC-1295.
What the evidence shows
GH/IGF-1 elevation is shown in humans; lean-mass benefit in healthy adults is not.
Graded in Ipamorelin + CJC-1295: The Athlete's GH Stack, Examined for “Body composition / lean mass (healthy humans)”: None shown.
Read the full review: Ipamorelin + CJC-1295: The Athlete's GH Stack, Examined
Legal and FDA status
The most-prescribed peptide on our tracker has the most confused paper trail, and it is worth reading carefully: ipamorelin appears in BOTH of FDA's tables — still a category 2 safety concern under the 503B policy, and a withdrawn nomination on the 503A side. Neither is a lawful basis. FDA cites a published report of serious adverse events including death when it was given intravenously.
Anti-doping status
GHRP-2, GHRP-6, hexarelin, ipamorelin and related GH secretagogues — including the oral ghrelin mimetic MK-677 (ibutamoren) — are prohibited at all times under S2. WADA-accredited labs have validated assays for their urinary metabolites. No 2026 change — they were already banned by class.
Read next: every Ipamorelin guide
What the evidence says
Dosage and how it's taken
Side effects and safety
How it compares
Is there a legal way to get it?
Not lawful to compound, so we list no sellers of Ipamorelin. A prescription option we compare instead:
Calculators
Medical disclaimer: This content is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment.