IGF-1 DES vs Macimorelin
Head-to-head comparison of IGF-1 DES (Des(1-3) Insulin-like Growth Factor 1) and Macimorelin (Macimorelin acetate (AEZS-130)) — benefits, dosing, side effects, research data, and where to buy.
Research Score
| Property | IGF-1 DES | Macimorelin |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Growth Hormone | Growth Hormone |
| Full Name | Des(1-3) Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 | Macimorelin acetate (AEZS-130) |
| Molecular Weight | 7365 Da | N/A |
| Half-Life | ~20-30 minutes | about 4-6 hours |
| Amino Acids | 67 | N/A |
| Typical Dose | — | 0.5 mg/kg single oral dose |
| Route | — | Oral |
| Purity | >98% | ≥98% |
| Studies Count | 65 | 120 |
| 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
Macimorelin Benefits
- ✓diagnostic GH stimulation
- ✓single oral dose
- ✓rapid measurable GH response
- ✓high clinical utility
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.
Macimorelin Dosing
0.5 mg/kg orally as a single dose|fasted testing conditions|serial GH sampling after administration
IGF-1 DES Side Effects
- ⚠Hypoglycemia (dose-dependent), localized swelling, shorter duration limits systemic exposure compared to IGF-1 LR3.
Macimorelin Side Effects
- ⚠dysgeusia or taste disturbance
- ⚠nausea
- ⚠headache
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.
Macimorelin
Macimorelin has been validated in clinical testing as an oral alternative to injectable GH stimulation tests. Its short-term use makes it a useful translational tool for evaluating pituitary GH reserve.
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