IGF-1 DES vs Ibutamoren
Head-to-head comparison of IGF-1 DES (Des(1-3) Insulin-like Growth Factor 1) and Ibutamoren (Ibutamoren mesylate (MK-677)) — benefits, dosing, side effects, research data, and where to buy.
Research Score
| Property | IGF-1 DES | Ibutamoren |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Growth Hormone | Growth Hormone |
| Full Name | Des(1-3) Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 | Ibutamoren mesylate (MK-677) |
| Molecular Weight | 7365 Da | N/A |
| Half-Life | ~20-30 minutes | about 24 hours |
| Amino Acids | 67 | N/A |
| Typical Dose | — | 10-25 mg/day |
| Route | — | Oral |
| Purity | >98% | ≥98% |
| Studies Count | 65 | 180 |
| Research Status | Active Research | Clinical |
IGF-1 DES Benefits
- ✓Highly potent localized muscle growth, enhanced protein synthesis, satellite cell proliferation, does not bind to IGFBPs, rapid onset
Ibutamoren Benefits
- ✓raises GH/IGF-1
- ✓increases appetite
- ✓supports lean mass retention
- ✓oral non-peptide secretagogue
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.
Ibutamoren Dosing
10-25 mg orally once daily|take consistently at the same time each day|monitor fasting glucose and edema in longer studies
IGF-1 DES Side Effects
- ⚠Hypoglycemia (dose-dependent), localized swelling, shorter duration limits systemic exposure compared to IGF-1 LR3.
Ibutamoren Side Effects
- ⚠increased appetite
- ⚠water retention/edema
- ⚠somnolence or lethargy
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.
Ibutamoren
Clinical studies show oral ibutamoren reliably elevates GH and IGF-1 over 24 hours with once-daily dosing. Body composition and appetite effects vary by population, and development has been limited by metabolic side effects.
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