What it means
Ipamorelin acts on the ghrelin receptor, also called the growth hormone secretagogue receptor, prompting the pituitary to release growth hormone. It was studied as a medicine for slow bowel recovery after surgery but was not approved.
The FDA lists ipamorelin among bulk substances that may raise significant safety concerns in compounding. The agency noted possible immune reactions, that it contains unnatural amino acids, and that a study of intravenous use reported serious adverse events, including a death. It said there was not enough information on other injected routes.
Evidence that ipamorelin helps weight loss in people is lacking. Because it works on the ghrelin pathway, it may also increase hunger in some people.
Products labeled "for research use only" have no FDA review of their content, purity or sterility.
Why it matters
Ipamorelin is often bundled into online 'peptide stacks,' but it is not an approved medicine and its safety is uncertain.
Related terms
Sources
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