IGF-1 DES vs GHRP-2
Head-to-head comparison of IGF-1 DES (Des(1-3) Insulin-like Growth Factor 1) and GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2) — benefits, dosing, side effects, research data, and where to buy.
| Property | IGF-1 DES | GHRP-2 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Growth Hormone | Performance |
| Full Name | Des(1-3) Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 | Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2 |
| Molecular Weight | 7365 Da | 817.97 Da |
| Half-Life | ~20-30 minutes | ~25 minutes |
| Amino Acids | 67 | 6 |
| Typical Dose | — | 100-300 mcg |
| Route | — | SC / IV |
| Purity | >98% | — |
| Studies Count | 65 | 172 |
| Research Status | Active Research | Approved (Japan) |
IGF-1 DES Benefits
- ✓Highly potent localized muscle growth, enhanced protein synthesis, satellite cell proliferation, does not bind to IGFBPs, rapid onset
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 DES Dosing
50-150 mcg per injection site bilaterally post-workout. 4-6 week cycles due to potency. Multiple daily injections in research.
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 DES Side Effects
- ⚠Hypoglycemia (dose-dependent), localized swelling, shorter duration limits systemic exposure compared to IGF-1 LR3.
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
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.
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.
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