IGF-1 DES vs Hexarelin
Head-to-head comparison of IGF-1 DES (Des(1-3) Insulin-like Growth Factor 1) and Hexarelin (Growth Hormone Releasing Hexapeptide) — benefits, dosing, side effects, research data, and where to buy.
| Property | IGF-1 DES | Hexarelin |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Growth Hormone | Performance |
| Full Name | Des(1-3) Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 | Growth Hormone Releasing Hexapeptide |
| Molecular Weight | 7365 Da | 887.04 Da |
| Half-Life | ~20-30 minutes | ~70 minutes |
| Amino Acids | 67 | 6 |
| Typical Dose | — | 100-200 mcg |
| Route | — | SC / IV |
| Purity | >98% | — |
| Studies Count | 65 | 198 |
| Research Status | Active Research | Clinical Trials |
IGF-1 DES Benefits
- ✓Highly potent localized muscle growth, enhanced protein synthesis, satellite cell proliferation, does not bind to IGFBPs, rapid onset
Hexarelin Benefits
- ✓Strongest GH pulse among GHRPs
- ✓Cardioprotective effects
- ✓Muscle mass and strength gains
- ✓Fat loss through improved body composition
- ✓Enhanced recovery from training
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.
Hexarelin Dosing
Standard: 100-200 mcg SC 2-3 times daily|Pre-workout: 100 mcg 30 min before training|Pre-bed: 100 mcg for overnight GH pulse|Cycle: 8-12 weeks then 4 week break (desensitization)
IGF-1 DES Side Effects
- ⚠Hypoglycemia (dose-dependent), localized swelling, shorter duration limits systemic exposure compared to IGF-1 LR3.
Hexarelin Side Effects
- ⚠Common: Increased appetite, water retention, tingling
- ⚠Moderate: Cortisol and prolactin elevation (dose-dependent)
- ⚠Notable: Desensitization occurs after 4-16 weeks of continuous use
- ⚠Rare: Numbness in extremities
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.
Hexarelin
Hexarelin has extensive pre-clinical and clinical evidence. Multiple human studies confirm potent GH release. Unique cardioprotective properties are well-documented. Note that receptor desensitization limits long-term continuous use.
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