IGF-1 DES vs IGF-1 LR3
Head-to-head comparison of IGF-1 DES (Des(1-3) Insulin-like Growth Factor 1) and IGF-1 LR3 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Long R3) — benefits, dosing, side effects, research data, and where to buy.
| Property | IGF-1 DES | IGF-1 LR3 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Growth Hormone | Performance |
| Full Name | Des(1-3) Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 | Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Long R3 |
| Molecular Weight | 7365 Da | 9,117 Da |
| Half-Life | ~20-30 minutes | ~20-30 hours |
| Amino Acids | 67 | 83 |
| Typical Dose | — | 20-100 mcg |
| Route | — | IM / SC |
| Purity | >98% | — |
| Studies Count | 65 | 298 |
| Research Status | Active Research | Pre-clinical |
IGF-1 DES Benefits
- ✓Highly potent localized muscle growth, enhanced protein synthesis, satellite cell proliferation, does not bind to IGFBPs, rapid onset
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
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.
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
IGF-1 DES Side Effects
- ⚠Hypoglycemia (dose-dependent), localized swelling, shorter duration limits systemic exposure compared to IGF-1 LR3.
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
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.
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.
Ready to buy?
Find both peptides from our verified, lab-tested vendors with purity certificates and third-party testing.