IGF-1 DES vs Somatropin
Head-to-head comparison of IGF-1 DES (Des(1-3) Insulin-like Growth Factor 1) and Somatropin (Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH)) — benefits, dosing, side effects, research data, and where to buy.
Research Score
| Property | IGF-1 DES | Somatropin |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Growth Hormone | Growth Hormone |
| Full Name | Des(1-3) Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 | Recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) |
| Molecular Weight | 7365 Da | 22125 Da |
| Half-Life | ~20-30 minutes | 2-4 hours |
| Amino Acids | 67 | 191 |
| Typical Dose | — | 0.004-0.03 mg/kg/day |
| Route | — | Subcutaneous |
| Purity | >98% | ≥98% |
| Studies Count | 65 | 2000 |
| Research Status | Active Research | Clinical/Approved |
IGF-1 DES Benefits
- ✓Highly potent localized muscle growth, enhanced protein synthesis, satellite cell proliferation, does not bind to IGFBPs, rapid onset
Somatropin Benefits
- ✓linear growth support
- ✓lean mass preservation
- ✓bone mineral accrual
- ✓IGF-1 elevation
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.
Somatropin Dosing
daily subcutaneous dosing|titrate to IGF-1 and response|weight-based replacement protocols
IGF-1 DES Side Effects
- ⚠Hypoglycemia (dose-dependent), localized swelling, shorter duration limits systemic exposure compared to IGF-1 LR3.
Somatropin Side Effects
- ⚠edema
- ⚠arthralgia
- ⚠insulin resistance
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.
Somatropin
Somatropin is the best-studied growth hormone peptide, with decades of clinical use in pediatric and adult GH deficiency. Trials consistently show increases in IGF-1 and growth velocity, with adverse effects mainly reflecting excessive GH exposure.
Ready to buy?
Find both peptides from our verified, lab-tested vendors with purity certificates and third-party testing.