IGF-1 DES vs Ghrelin
Head-to-head comparison of IGF-1 DES (Des(1-3) Insulin-like Growth Factor 1) and Ghrelin (Ghrelin (acylated human ghrelin; endogenous growth hormone secretagogue)) — benefits, dosing, side effects, research data, and where to buy.
| Property | IGF-1 DES | Ghrelin |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Growth Hormone | Growth Hormone |
| Full Name | Des(1-3) Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 | Ghrelin (acylated human ghrelin; endogenous growth hormone secretagogue) |
| Molecular Weight | 7365 Da | 3367 Da |
| Half-Life | ~20-30 minutes | 20-30 minutes |
| Amino Acids | 67 | 28 |
| Typical Dose | — | 1-3 mcg/kg |
| Route | — | Subcutaneous/Intravenous |
| Purity | >98% | ≥98% |
| Studies Count | 65 | 2000 |
| Research Status | Active Research | Clinical research |
IGF-1 DES Benefits
- ✓Highly potent localized muscle growth, enhanced protein synthesis, satellite cell proliferation, does not bind to IGFBPs, rapid onset
Ghrelin Benefits
- ✓increases GH pulses
- ✓supports appetite and energy intake
- ✓may support lean mass preservation
- ✓promotes recovery signaling
IGF-1 DES Dosing
50-150 mcg per injection site bilaterally post-workout. 4-6 week cycles due to potency. Multiple daily injections in research.
Ghrelin Dosing
1-3 mcg/kg SC or IV|repeat dosing in short research windows|titrate to GH response in monitored studies
IGF-1 DES Side Effects
- ⚠Hypoglycemia (dose-dependent), localized swelling, shorter duration limits systemic exposure compared to IGF-1 LR3.
Ghrelin Side Effects
- ⚠hunger/nausea
- ⚠transient flushing
- ⚠changes in glucose/insulin
Research Overview
IGF-1 DES
Missing first three amino acids (Gly-Pro-Glu) eliminates IGFBP binding, resulting in 100% bioavailable IGF-1R stimulation. Activates PI3K/Akt/mTOR for protein synthesis and satellite cell proliferation.
Ghrelin
Ghrelin is the canonical ligand for the growth hormone secretagogue receptor and is used extensively as a reference compound in GH-axis research. Human and animal studies consistently show rapid, dose-dependent GH release after acyl-ghrelin administration.
Ready to buy?
Find both peptides from our verified, lab-tested vendors with purity certificates and third-party testing.