GHRP-2 vs IGF-1 LR3
Head-to-head comparison of GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2) and IGF-1 LR3 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Long R3) — benefits, dosing, side effects, research data, and where to buy.
| Property | GHRP-2 | IGF-1 LR3 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Performance | Performance |
| Full Name | Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2 | Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Long R3 |
| Molecular Weight | 817.97 Da | 9,117 Da |
| Half-Life | ~25 minutes | ~20-30 hours |
| Amino Acids | 6 | 83 |
| Typical Dose | 100-300 mcg | 20-100 mcg |
| Route | SC / IV | IM / SC |
| Purity | — | — |
| Studies Count | 172 | 298 |
| Research Status | Approved (Japan) | Pre-clinical |
GHRP-2 Benefits
- ✓Potent GH release (stronger than GHRP-6)
- ✓Less appetite stimulation than GHRP-6
- ✓Improved body composition
- ✓Enhanced deep sleep quality
- ✓Cytoprotective properties
IGF-1 LR3 Benefits
- ✓Promotes muscle hyperplasia (new muscle cells)
- ✓Extended half-life vs native IGF-1
- ✓Enhanced protein synthesis
- ✓Improved nutrient partitioning
- ✓Anti-catabolic effects
GHRP-2 Dosing
Standard: 100-300 mcg SC 2-3 times daily|Pre-bed: 100-200 mcg for GH pulse during sleep|Combined: 100 mcg with CJC-1295 for synergy|Cycle: 8-16 weeks, 4 weeks off
IGF-1 LR3 Dosing
Standard: 20-50 mcg IM post-workout|Advanced: 50-100 mcg IM or SC daily|Cycle: 4-6 weeks on, 4 weeks off
GHRP-2 Side Effects
- ⚠Common: Mild appetite increase, water retention, tingling
- ⚠Moderate: Cortisol elevation at higher doses
- ⚠Rare: Prolactin increase, transient dizziness
- ⚠Better tolerated than GHRP-6 overall
IGF-1 LR3 Side Effects
- ⚠Common: Hypoglycemia (dose-dependent), joint pain, water retention
- ⚠Moderate: Gut growth concern (high doses), acromegaly-like symptoms
- ⚠Serious: Theoretical cancer risk (prolonged high-dose use)
Research Overview
GHRP-2
GHRP-2 has strong clinical evidence. Approved in Japan for diagnostic use. Multiple human studies confirm reliable GH stimulation with a favorable side effect profile compared to GHRP-6.
IGF-1 LR3
IGF-1 LR3 has extensive in vitro and animal data. Its role in muscle hyperplasia is well-documented. The extended half-life modification provides practical advantages over native IGF-1.
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