Muscle Recovery
Research compounds studied for accelerating soft tissue repair, reducing exercise-induced inflammation, and supporting muscle protein synthesis after training.
Most researched for Muscle Recovery
BPC-157
The most widely referenced recovery peptide with the broadest research base for soft tissue healing. Promotes angiogenesis and upregulates growth factor receptors at and near the injection site. Can be used both locally (near injury) and orally (for systemic and gut recovery), making it the most versatile entry point in this category.
Ibutamoren
aka MK-677, MK-677, Nutrobal, MK-0677
How it works: An oral compound that signals your body to release more of its own growth hormone, studied for muscle growth, recovery, and deeper sleep.
GH and IGF-1 elevation; muscle mass; recovery; sleep quality; anti-aging
Research dose
10-25 mg, Once daily (oral)
Real-world (reported)
10–25 mg nightly. Many prefer 10–12.5 mg long-term. 5 on/2 off used by some.
Administration
Oral
Timing
Evening (aligns with GH pulse and sleep)
Cycle length
8–12 wks on; 4–8 wks off; long-term use debated
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Increased appetite (strong); water retention; fatigue first 2 wks; mild joint pain
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] Very widely used. Sleep improvement and vivid dreams. 10 mg preferred for fewer sides.
- Onset
- Appetite increase within days; body composition 8+ wks
- Half-life
- ~24h
- Storage
- Dry: Room temp; dry; away from heat/moisture
- Reconstitution
- N/A (oral)
- Rare side effects
- Insulin resistance/glucose elevation (significant at 25 mg); theoretical tumor risk
- Contraindications
- Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance; active malignancy; pregnancy; History of or risk factors for congestive heart failure (identified safety signa; Diabetes mellitus or prediabetes (MK-677 increases fasting glucose and reduces i; Active malignancy or history of cancer (elevated IGF-1 may promote tumor growth); Not approved for human use; investigational compound onlyFrequency distribution
- Drug interactions
- Insulin/antidiabetics (glucose monitoring); CNS depressants (additive sedation)
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1 (baseline + 4–8 wks); fasting glucose; HbA1c; fasting insulin
- Stacks well with
- CJC-1295+Ipamorelin: triple GH stimulation (monitor IGF-1). BPC-157: recovery stack.
- Secondary uses
- Bone density; fat loss; cognitive function; skin quality
- Research status
- Multiple Phase 2 human trials; no FDA approval; investigational drug status
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Not FDA-approved; investigational drug; sold as research chemical · UK: Legal to import as research chemical · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Research chemical most EU
- Typical price
- $30–$70 / month supply
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Growth hormone deficiency (investigational); Age-related sarcopenia and frailty (investigational); Bone density and osteoporosis research; Body composition improvement in elderly populations
- Chemical data
- CAS 159634-47-6 · C27H36N4O5S · 528.67 Da
- Amino acids
- 51 aa
Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment
aka TB-500, TB-500, Tβ4 frag, LKKTETQ
How it works: Upregulates actin to promote cell migration and reduce inflammation throughout the body for systemic healing.
Soft tissue healing; muscle repair; cardiovascular recovery; anti-inflammatory
Research dose
2-2.5 mg, 2×/week loading; biweekly maintenance
Real-world (reported)
Loading: 2–2.5 mg SubQ 2×/wk × 4 wks; Maintenance: 2.5 mg q2wk
Administration
SubQ / IM
Timing
Variable; 2× weekly split
Cycle length
Loading 4–6 wks; maintenance ongoing
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Lethargy; head rush post-injection; mild fatigue (loading phase)
Community take: [ANECDOTAL – r/Peptides] 2nd most popular healing peptide. BPC+TB combo near-consensus for injuries.
- Onset
- Days–weeks
- Half-life
- Days tissue retention
- Storage
- Dry: Freeze –20°C long-term; fridge 2–8°C ≤12 mo; light sensitive · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 28 days
- Reconstitution
- Add 2 mL BAC water to 5 mg vial = 2.5 mg/mL; 2 mg dose = 80 IU
- Rare side effects
- Theoretical tumor progression (angiogenic); no confirmed human adverse events
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy (theoretical); pregnancy; Active malignancy or history of cancer (Tβ4 promotes angiogenesis and cell migra; Pregnancy and breastfeeding (no safety data available); Known hypersensitivity to Thymosin Beta-4 or any formulation excipients; Children and adolescents (no pediatric safety data)
- Drug interactions
- No well-documented interactions
- Recommended bloodwork
- CBC, CMP baseline; CRP if long cycles
- Stacks well with
- BPC-157 (Wolverine Stack); GHK-Cu (GLOW Stack)
- Secondary uses
- Hair follicle stimulation; neuroprotection; wound healing
- Research status
- Mostly animal; no published human RCTs; limited compassionate use Phase I data
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only; PCAC July 2026 · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 (Rx only) · EU: Varies by member state
- Typical price
- $40–$70 / 5 mg vial
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Wound healing and tissue repair research; Cardiac repair and cardioprotection studies; Anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic investigations; Corneal wound healing and ophthalmic research; Dermal ulcer and chronic wound treatment trials
- Chemical data
- CAS 77591-33-4 · C212H350N56O78S · 4963 Da
- Amino acids
- 46 aa
Semax
aka ACTH(4-10) analogue, ACTH(4-10) analogue, ACTH(4-7)-PGP, Semax Peptide
How it works: Reduces amyloid inclusions and improves cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease models.
Neuroprotection, cognitive enhancement
Research dose
250-1000 mcg, 1–3×/day
Real-world (reported)
Stable/Rising in nootropic community; PCAC July 2026
Administration
Intranasal (most common) / SubQ
Timing
Morning and/or midday (stimulant-like)
Cycle length
4–8 wks on; break; or 10-day Russian intensive
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Natural peptide drug with reportedly lacking side effects per study
Community take: Preclinical research demonstrates high potential of Semax and its derivatives for Alzheimer's disease therapeutic development, with demonstrated cognitive improvements and reduced amyloid pathology in animal models.
- Onset
- Cognitive 30–60 min; cumulative neurotrophin effects weeks–months
- Half-life
- ~30 min
- Storage
- Dry: Nasal spray: refrigerate; follow mfr guidelines. Lyophilized: fridge/freeze. · Reconstituted: Nasal spray: cloudiness, smell. Injectable: standard flags.
- Reconstitution
- Injectable: add 1 mL BAC water to 1 mg vial = 1 mg/mL
- Rare side effects
- Bipolar disorder/mania; active psychosis
- Contraindications
- Stimulants (additive); antidepressants (serotonergic); Known hypersensitivity to Semax or any component of the formulation; Acute psychotic states or severe anxiety disorders (may be exacerbated); Pregnancy and breastfeeding (safety not established); Children under the recommended age (varies by formulation)
- Drug interactions
- No standard BW; optional BDNF levels (research context)
- Recommended bloodwork
- Selank: complementary (Semax stimulation + Selank anxiolysis). Cerebrolysin: additive neuroprotection.
- Stacks well with
- [ANECDOTAL – r/Nootropics, Longecity] 'BDNF in a bottle.' Significant cognitive enhancement, mood/motivation. Some find too stimulating.
- Secondary uses
- Cognitive function improvement
- Research status
- Preclinical research — rat brain slice studies
- FDA status
- No (Russia: approved)
- Legal status
- US: Legal for research; not scheduled · UK: Legal research chemical · Canada: Schedule 4 · Australia: Unregulated most EU; Russia: approved OTC · EU: Limitless Biotech; CosmoChem; nootropic vendors
- Typical price
- ~$1–$3 / 500 mcg dose
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Stroke recovery and neuroprotection research; Cognitive enhancement and nootropic studies; Neurotrophic factor modulation research; Attention deficit and learning disorder investigations; Optic nerve disease treatment (Russian clinical use)
- Chemical data
- CAS 80714-61-0 · C37H51N9O10S · (Da
- Amino acids
- 27 aa
Sermorelin Acetate
aka Sermorelin, GHRH(1-29), GRF 1-29
How it works: Prompts the pituitary to release your own growth hormone in a natural pulse, studied for body composition, recovery, and sleep.
GH stimulation; body composition; sleep; anti-aging (clinic use)
Research dose
100-500 mcg, Once daily pre-bed
Real-world (reported)
200–300 mcg pre-bed SubQ. Stack with ipamorelin 200 mcg for synergy.
Administration
SubQ
Timing
Pre-bed on empty stomach
Cycle length
8–16 weeks
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Mild flushing/head rush; injection-site reactions; water retention
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] Considered the 'classic' GHRH; less potent than CJC-1295 no DAC but well-tolerated. Often first Rx GH peptide prescribed by clinics.
- Onset
- GH pulse 30 min; body composition weeks–months
- Half-life
- ~10–20 min
- Storage
- Dry: Fridge 2–8°C; freeze long-term · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 28 days
- Reconstitution
- Add 2 mL BAC water to 3 mg vial = 1.5 mg/mL; 100 mcg = ~6.7 IU
- Rare side effects
- Joint pain at high doses; blood sugar changes
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy; pregnancy; hypothyroidism (treat first); Active malignancy or history of cancer (GH-dependent tumors); Hypersensitivity to sermorelin or GHRH analogs; Acute critical illness (GH may worsen outcomes in critically ill patients); Active proliferative diabetic retinopathy
- Drug interactions
- Glucocorticoids blunt response
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1 (baseline + 4–8 wks); fasting glucose
- Stacks well with
- Ipamorelin: recommended combination. Less potent than Mod GRF 1-29 but well-studied.
- Secondary uses
- IGF-1 elevation; muscle preservation; skin quality
- Research status
- Was FDA-approved (Geref, withdrawn 2008 by manufacturer); widely used in compounding practice; human data solid
- FDA status
- No (Rx compounded)
- Legal status
- US: Not FDA-approved (Geref withdrawn); compounding legal; gray-market research chemical · UK: Legal for research; Rx compounding available · Canada: Legal research chemical or Rx · Australia: Schedule 4 (Rx) · EU: Varies by member state
- Typical price
- $30–$60 / 3 mg vial
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Growth hormone deficiency diagnostic testing; Anti-aging and regenerative medicine research; GH secretion stimulation studies; Combined GHRH/GHRP protocol investigations
- Chemical data
- CAS 86168-78-7 · C149H246N44O42S · 3357.88 Da
- Amino acids
- 235 aa
GHRP-2
aka Pralmorelin, KP-102, Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2
How it works: Triggers a strong pulse of your own growth hormone for body composition and recovery, though it also nudges up cortisol and prolactin.
Strong GH pulse stimulation; body composition; recovery
Research dose
100-300 mcg, 1–3×/day
Real-world (reported)
100–200 mcg pre-bed or pre-workout. Stack with Mod GRF 1-29. Monitor mood (cortisol).
Administration
SubQ / IM
Timing
Pre-bed or pre-workout
Cycle length
8–12 wks on; 4 wks off
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Head rush; flushing; cortisol/prolactin bump; increased hunger; injection-site reactions
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] Strong GH release but cortisol/prolactin spike makes it less popular than ipamorelin. Used by more experienced users who want stronger GH stimulus.
- Onset
- GH pulse within 30 min; body composition weeks
- Half-life
- ~30 min
- Storage
- Dry: Fridge 2–8°C; freeze long-term · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 28 days
- Reconstitution
- Add 2 mL BAC water to 2 mg vial = 1 mg/mL; 100 mcg = 10 IU
- Rare side effects
- Significant cortisol elevation (stress hormone concern long-term); prolactin elevation
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy; depression (cortisol); pregnancy; prolactin-sensitive conditions; Pituitary tumors (risk of stimulating tumor growth through GH axis activation); Active cancer (theoretical risk from chronic GH/IGF-1 axis stimulation); Pregnancy (no safety data available in pregnant women)Frequency distribution of; GH/IGF-1 axis drugs (recombinant GH; IGF-1; GHRH analogs) - potential for additi
- Drug interactions
- Glucocorticoids; aromatase inhibitors; prolactin-modulating drugs
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1; cortisol (morning); prolactin; fasting glucose
- Stacks well with
- CJC-1295 no DAC: standard GHRH pair. Less preferred than ipamorelin due to cortisol/prolactin.
- Secondary uses
- IGF-1 elevation; healing; muscle mass
- Research status
- Preclinical robust; human clinical trial data as Pralmorelin (Japan); compounding protocols
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $20–$40 / 2 mg vial
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- GH deficiency diagnosis (approved in Japan); Growth hormone research; Appetite stimulation studies; Neuroendocrine function testing
- Chemical data
- CAS 158861-67-7 · C45H55N9O6 · 817.9 Da
- Amino acids
- 235 aa
GHRP-6
aka His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2, Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6, GHRP6
How it works: Triggers a growth-hormone pulse plus strong hunger, making it popular for mass-building phases.
GH pulse stimulation; mass building (appetite-driven)
Research dose
100-300 mcg, 1–3×/day
Real-world (reported)
100 mcg pre-bed SubQ. Eat within 15–30 min of injection to blunt hunger spike. Stack with Mod GRF 1-29.
Administration
SubQ / IM
Timing
Pre-bed or pre-workout
Cycle length
8–12 wks on; 4 wks off
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Strong hunger/appetite increase (within minutes; signature effect); water retention; cortisol/prolactin bump; head rush
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] 'Hunger is real and intense.' Community recommends only for bulking phases. Old-school GHRP. Ipamorelin and GHRP-2 have mostly replaced it.
- Onset
- GH pulse within 30 min; strong hunger within minutes
- Half-life
- ~30 min
- Storage
- Dry: Fridge 2–8°C; freeze long-term · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 28 days
- Reconstitution
- Add 2 mL BAC water to 2 mg vial = 1 mg/mL; 100 mcg = 10 IU
- Rare side effects
- Weight gain from extreme hunger; long-term cortisol elevation; prolactin elevation
- Contraindications
- Cutting/fat-loss goals (strong appetite); active malignancy; pregnancy; Active malignancy (GH may promote tumor growth); Diabetic retinopathy (GH can worsen); Pregnancy and breastfeeding (no safety data); Hypersensitivity to GHRP-6 or any componentFrequency distribution of reported si
- Drug interactions
- Similar to GHRP-2
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1; cortisol; prolactin; body weight; fasting glucose
- Stacks well with
- CJC-1295 no DAC: standard GHRH pair. Useful in bulking phases where appetite stimulus is welcome.
- Secondary uses
- IGF-1 elevation; healing
- Research status
- Preclinical robust; first-generation GHRP with most published research; human data
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $15–$35 / 2 mg vial
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Growth hormone axis research and diagnostic testing; Ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) biology and pharmacology studies; Cytoprotective and cardioprotective research; Appetite regulation and feeding behavior studies; Growth hormone deficiency research models
- Chemical data
- CAS 87616-84-0 · C46H56N12O6 · 873.01 Da
- Amino acids
- 231 aa
CJC-1295 with DAC
aka CJC-1295 DAC, Drug Affinity Complex CJC-1295, Modified GRF(1-29) with DAC
How it works: A long-acting growth-hormone booster that keeps GH and IGF-1 elevated for days from one dose, studied for body composition and anti-aging.
Sustained GH/IGF-1 elevation; body composition; anti-aging; less frequent dosing
Research dose
1-2 mg, Once or twice per week
Real-world (reported)
1–2 mg SubQ 1–2×/week. Less popular than no-DAC version in community.
Administration
SubQ
Timing
Any time (long half-life)
Cycle length
8–12 weeks
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Fluid retention; numbness/tingling; water retention; flushing (less acute than pulsatile)
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] Convenient (once or twice weekly). However community has moved toward CJC-1295 no DAC for more physiological pulsatile profile. 'Blunts natural rhythm.'
- Onset
- GH/IGF-1 elevation within days; sustained; body composition weeks–months
- Half-life
- ~6–8 days
- Storage
- Dry: Fridge 2–8°C; freeze long-term · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 28 days
- Reconstitution
- Add 2 mL BAC water to 2 mg vial = 1 mg/mL; 1 mg dose = 100 IU
- Rare side effects
- IGF-1 elevation beyond normal range (tonic elevation risk); tumor promotion (theoretical); joint pain
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy; pregnancy; hypothyroidism; Active malignancy or history of cancer (GH/IGF-1 may promote tumor growth); Pregnancy and breastfeeding (no safety data); Known hypersensitivity to CJC-1295 or any excipients; Uncontrolled diabetes (GH elevation may worsen glucose tolerance)
- Drug interactions
- Glucocorticoids; insulin
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1 (baseline + every 4–6 wks; more important than with short-acting); fasting glucose; thyroid
- Stacks well with
- Does NOT need to be stacked with GHRP as urgently as no-DAC. Some stack with ipamorelin for added pulse.
- Secondary uses
- Muscle preservation; fat loss; sleep quality
- Research status
- Preclinical; human compounding clinical use; some concern about tonic vs pulsatile GH regarding safety
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $30–$70 / 2 mg vial
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Growth hormone deficiency research; Age-related GH decline investigation; Body composition research; Anti-aging and longevity research
- Chemical data
- CAS 863288-34-0 · C165H271N47O46 · 3647.28 Da
- Amino acids
- 38 aa
Sermorelin + Ipamorelin
aka Combo, Sermorelin + Ipamorelin Clinic Combination
How it works: Pairs two growth-hormone boosters - Sermorelin and Ipamorelin - to roughly double the GH pulse compared with either alone.
GH axis optimization via two-compound synergistic protocol; body composition; sleep; anti-aging
Research dose
200-300 mcg each, Pre-bed daily or 5 on/2 off
Real-world (reported)
Same as CJC+Ipa: 200–300 mcg each pre-bed SubQ. 5 on/2 off.
Administration
SubQ
Timing
Pre-bed 15–30 min; 2h fast preferred
Cycle length
8–16 wks on; 4–6 wks off
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Same as CJC-1295+Ipa: flushing; water retention; head rush; hunger (milder than GHRP-6)
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] Standard Rx anti-aging clinic protocol. 'What the clinic prescribed.' Community has largely switched to CJC-1295 no DAC for gray-market use (more potent and available).
- Onset
- GH pulse 30 min; sleep 1–2 wks; body composition 8–12 wks
- Half-life
- Sermorelin ~10–20 min; Ipa ~2h
- Storage
- Dry: Fridge 2–8°C; freeze blended vials ≤7 days · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 28 days
- Reconstitution
- Blended vial per compounding pharmacy instructions; or reconstitute separately
- Rare side effects
- Same as CJC+Ipa; joint pain at high dose; glucose changes
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy; pregnancy; hypothyroidism (treat first)
- Drug interactions
- Glucocorticoids; insulin
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1 (baseline + 4–8 wks); fasting glucose; thyroid
- Stacks well with
- Note: CJC-1295 no DAC has replaced Sermorelin in most community use. Sermorelin still used in Rx anti-aging clinics.
- Secondary uses
- Same as CJC+Ipa but using Sermorelin (shorter half-life GHRH; was FDA-approved)
- Research status
- Established anti-aging clinic protocol based on Sermorelin NDA data + ipamorelin preclinical/clinical experience
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Compounding pharmacy Rx; gray-market research chemical · UK: Legal for research; Rx compounding · Canada: Legal · Australia: Schedule 4 (Rx) · EU: Varies
- Typical price
- $40–$80 / blended vial
Follistatin-344
aka FST-344, FST, Activin-Binding Protein
How it works: Blocks myostatin (the muscle-growth limiter) like FST-315, but circulates more widely for a more systemic, whole-body effect.
Muscle hypertrophy; fat loss; anti-catabolic — more systemic than FST-315
Research dose
100-200 mcg, 2×/week
Real-world (reported)
100–200 mcg SubQ 2×/week. Monitor FSH/testosterone closely.
Administration
SubQ / IM
Timing
Post-workout
Cycle length
4–8 weeks; 4+ weeks off
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Injection-site; headache; possible excessive muscle growth; FSH suppression
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] Even more limited than FST-315 due to systemic effects and FSH impact. Advanced bodybuilding only.
- Onset
- Anabolic effects 2–4 wks
- Half-life
- Hours
- Storage
- Dry: Freeze –20°C · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 7–14 days
- Reconstitution
- Add 1 mL acetic acid (0.6%) or BAC water — store advice varies
- Rare side effects
- Excessive hypertrophy; FSH suppression (reproductive); limited long-term safety data
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy; pregnancy; fertility goals (FSH/reproductive effects); Active malignancy (theoretical concern with growth factor modulation); Pre-existing antibodies to AAV1 (for gene therapy applications); Pregnancy and breastfeeding (no safety data); Severe hepatic impairmentFrequency distribution of reported side effects⚠Drug I
- Drug interactions
- Testosterone/sex hormones; FSH
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1; testosterone; FSH; LH; CBC; body composition
- Stacks well with
- Ipamorelin + CJC-1295: muscle building stack. FST-315: local targeting alternative.
- Secondary uses
- Bone density; fertility modulation; fibrosis; FSH regulation
- Research status
- Preclinical animal data; gene therapy studies; no standalone clinical trials
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $200–$500+ / 1 mg
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Muscular dystrophy gene therapy research; Muscle wasting and sarcopenia studies; Metabolic disease research
- Chemical data
- CAS 136470-78-5 · Glycoprotein (multiple isoforms) · (approx)CharacteristicsFST-288288~31 kDa
- Amino acids
- 344 aa
Mechano Growth Factor
aka MGF, MGF, IGF-1Ec, MGF Peptide
How it works: A muscle growth factor released when muscle is worked hard, which wakes up local muscle stem cells to drive repair and growth.
Muscle hypertrophy; satellite cell activation; local muscle repair after exercise
Research dose
200-400 mcg, Post-workout only
Real-world (reported)
200 mcg IM immediately post-workout. Acetic acid reconstitution required.
Administration
SubQ/IM at target muscle
Timing
Immediately post-workout (within 15 min)
Cycle length
4–6 wks on; 4 wks off
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Hypoglycemia (mild); injection-site reactions; headache
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] Very limited gray-market experience. Most prefer IGF-1 LR3 for systemic or PEG-MGF for convenience.
- Onset
- Satellite cell activation within hours; hypertrophy 2–4 wks
- Half-life
- ~30 min
- Storage
- Dry: Freeze –20°C; protect from heat · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 10–14 days; freeze aliquots
- Reconstitution
- Add 1 mL acetic acid (0.6%) — required for reconstitution; BAC water degrades it
- Rare side effects
- Potential tumor promotion; very limited long-term human safety data
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy; pregnancy; Active malignancy or history of cancer (MGF promotes cell proliferation); Pregnancy and breastfeeding (effects on fetal development unknown); Known hypersensitivity to MGF or excipients; Active uncontrolled infections
- Drug interactions
- Insulin (hypoglycemia risk)
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1; fasting glucose; body composition
- Stacks well with
- PEG-MGF: longer-acting version. IGF-1 LR3: systemic alternative.
- Secondary uses
- Muscle damage repair; anti-catabolic
- Research status
- Preclinical animal data; no human clinical trials; limited gray-market use
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $40–$100 / 2 mg vial
- Research evidence
- low
- Indications
- Muscle repair and regeneration research; Satellite cell activation studies; Exercise physiology research; Cardiac tissue repair research; Neuroprotection and neurogenesis research
- Chemical data
- CAS 80214-83-1 · C121H200N42O39 · 2867.15 Da
- Amino acids
- 100 aa
Hexarelin
aka Examorelin, EP-23905, Hexarelin Acetate
How it works: The strongest growth-hormone-pulse peptide, with a separate heart-protective action - though the body adapts to it quickly with daily use.
Strongest GH pulse of any GHRP; body composition; potential cardiovascular protective effects
Research dose
100-200 mcg, 1–2×/day MAX; discontinue if no response after 4 wks
Real-world (reported)
100 mcg 1× daily or 2× max with 2+ days off between doses. Stack with Mod GRF 1-29.
Administration
SubQ / IM
Timing
Pre-workout or pre-bed
Cycle length
4–8 wks; 4–8 wks off mandatory
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Cortisol/prolactin bump; head rush; hunger; injection-site reactions
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] 'Most powerful GHRP but burns out quickly.' Used for short blast cycles. Not for long continuous use.
- Onset
- GH pulse 30–60 min
- Half-life
- ~70 min
- Storage
- Dry: Fridge 2–8°C; freeze long-term · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 28 days
- Reconstitution
- Add 2 mL BAC water to 2 mg vial = 1 mg/mL; 100 mcg = 10 IU
- Rare side effects
- Rapid and significant receptor desensitization (tachyphylaxis) with >2× daily dosing; cortisol elevation
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy; pregnancy; prolactin-sensitive conditions; frequent dosing (causes desensitization); Active cancer or history of malignancy (GH and IGF-1 elevation may promote tumor; Pituitary tumors or pituitary disorders (risk of exacerbating underlying conditi; Pregnancy and breastfeeding (no reproductive safety data available)Frequency dis; Growth hormone and IGF-1 axis drugs (potential additive GH elevation and IGF-1 i
- Drug interactions
- Glucocorticoids; prolactin-modulating drugs
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1; cortisol; prolactin; GH levels optional; monitor desensitization via GH response
- Stacks well with
- CJC-1295 no DAC: pair only if avoiding desensitization schedule. Most experienced users prefer ipamorelin for long cycles.
- Secondary uses
- IGF-1 elevation; cardioprotective (independent of GH); healing
- Research status
- Preclinical robust; some human Phase 2 data; cardioprotective effects studied
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $25–$55 / 2 mg vial
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Growth hormone deficiency research; Cardiovascular protection studies; Neuroendocrine research; Anti-aging investigations
- Chemical data
- CAS 140703-51-1 · C47H58N12O6 · 887 Da
- Amino acids
- 240 aa
IGF-1 LR3
aka Long R3, Long R3 IGF-1, IGF-1 Long Arg3, LR3-IGF-1
How it works: Binds IGF-1 receptors to drive muscle protein synthesis and satellite cell activation post-workout.
Systemic muscle hypertrophy; fat loss; recovery; satellite cell activation
Research dose
20-50 mcg, Once daily or post-workout
Real-world (reported)
20–40 mcg SubQ or IM post-workout. Eat carbohydrates immediately. Never inject pre-sleep without glucose monitoring.
Administration
SubQ / IM
Timing
Post-workout (when cells most receptive) or pre-bed
Cycle length
4–6 wks; 4–6 wks off mandatory
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Hypoglycemia (serious risk); headache; water retention; facial/jaw growth (long-term); organ growth (long-term)
Community take: [ANECDOTAL – advanced bodybuilding forums] Potent muscle-building compound. Significant hypoglycemia risk post-injection. 'Eat immediately after injection.' Organ growth (gut, heart) with long-term use documented.
- Onset
- Anabolic effects within days; significant body composition weeks
- Half-life
- ~20–30h
- Storage
- Dry: Freeze –20°C unmixed; fridge short-term · Reconstituted: Refrigerate mixed; use within 14 days; freeze single-use aliquots if needed
- Reconstitution
- Add 1 mL ACetic acid (0.6%) or BAC water to vial; consult vendor instructions
- Rare side effects
- Tumor growth (strong angiogenic + proliferative); acromegaly-like features; hypoglycemia requiring intervention; carpal tunnel
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy or cancer history; family malignancy predisposition; diabetes; pregnancy; Active or suspected cancer: IGF-1 signaling is a potent mitogenic and anti-apopt; Pregnancy: No reproductive toxicology data exist for IGF-1 LR3; growth factor si; Children with closed epiphyses: IGF-1-based therapies carry risks of skeletal ov
- Drug interactions
- Insulin (severe additive hypoglycemia risk); GH (additive organ growth); anabolic steroids
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1 levels (before and 72h post-injection); fasting glucose; HbA1c; CBC; echocardiogram baseline; foot size / ring size (acromegaly proxy)
- Stacks well with
- NOT stacked with insulin (hypoglycemia death risk). GH peptides: additive IGF-1 elevation — monitor carefully.
- Secondary uses
- Bone density; anti-aging; organ growth
- Research status
- Preclinical extensive; no human clinical trials as standalone; used in research extensively; advanced gray-market use
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $30–$80 / 1 mg vial
- Research evidence
- very-low
- Indications
- Cell culture and bioprocessing; Muscle biology research; Growth factor signaling studies; Metabolic research
- Chemical data
- CAS 946870-92-4 · C400H625N111O115S9 · 9111.4 Da
- Amino acids
- 83 aa
CJC-1295
aka Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone Analog, CJC-1295 DAC, CJC-1295 with DAC, CJC-1295 no DAC
How it works: One injection keeps signaling the pituitary to release growth hormone for nearly a week.
Growth hormone stimulation, IGF-1 elevation, recovery optimization, body composition modulation
Research dose
30-60 mcg/kg, With DAC: 2 mg once weekly or every 2 weeks. No DAC: 100–300 mcg per injection, 2–3 times daily.
Real-world (reported)
No DAC: 100–300 mcg per injection, 2–3 times daily; With DAC: 2 mg once weekly or every 2 weeks.
Administration
Subcutaneous injection.
Timing
CJC-1295 should be taken in the morning, as it is a growth hormone releasing peptide that can help to increase energy and alertness.
Cycle length
Cycles typically 8-12 weeks based on community protocols; IGF-1 remains elevated for up to 28 days with multiple doses.
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Injection-site reactions: pain, redness, itching, induration (lumps under the skin), and swelling. Injection site reactions occurred in 80 percent of subjects.
Community take: Most research-community protocols use no-DAC for biomimetic pulses and ability to time around workouts/sleep; DAC version is more convenient (weekly) but produces sustained rather than pulsatile GH elevation.
- Onset
- IGF-1 elevation measurable within 2-3 weeks; body composition effects gradual over 8-12 weeks.
- Half-life
- The estimated half-life of CJC-1295 was 5.8-8.1 d. CJC-1295 no DAC has a 30-minute half-life.
- Storage
- Dry: Lyophilized powder stored refrigerated (2-8°C) before reconstitution. · Reconstituted: Refrigerated storage for the reconstituted vial.
- Reconstitution
- 10 mg vial + 3.0 mL BAC water = about 3,333 mcg/mL.
- Rare side effects
- Water retention, paresthesia.
- Contraindications
- Significant cardiovascular disease; Diabetes or pre-diabetes; Pregnancy or lactation; Known peptide hypersensitivity; Anyone without qualified clinician oversight.
- Drug interactions
- Glucocorticoids blunt response; insulin timing
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1 (baseline, mid-cycle, and end of cycle) under clinician oversight; Fasting glucose and HbA1c; Blood pressure and resting heart rate during cycles.
- Stacks well with
- CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin combination is mechanistically synergistic: GHRH priming + GHSR triggering produces GH pulses far exceeding either compound alone.
- Secondary uses
- Potential treatment for lipodystrophy, growth hormone deficiency
- Research status
- Phase 1 trials and a halted Phase 2 trial, published between 2005 and 2009.
- FDA status
- As of February 14, 2026, CJC-1295 lacks FDA approval for any indication and is primarily available through compounding pharmacies or research chemical suppliers.
- Legal status
- US: As of June 2026, CJC-1295 with DAC is not FDA-approved and has no active approval pathway. · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $25–$60 / 2 mg vial
- Research evidence
- low
- Indications
- Growth hormone axis research; Pulsatile GH stimulation studies; Body composition research; Combination protocols with GHRP peptides
- Chemical data
- CAS 863288-34-0 · C152H252N44O42 · 3367.9 Da
- Amino acids
- 2121 aa
IGF-1 DES
aka DES[1-3]IGF-1, DES IGF-1, IGF-1 DES 1-3, Des(1-3) IGF-1
How it works: An ultra-potent, short-acting growth factor that drives muscle growth right at the injection site by waking up local muscle stem cells.
Local muscle hypertrophy at injection site; satellite cell activation
Research dose
50-100 mcg, Once daily at injection site
Real-world (reported)
50–100 mcg IM into target muscle post-workout. Eat immediately. Local muscle fullness reported quickly.
Administration
IM (intramuscular at target site)
Timing
Immediately post-workout into target muscle
Cycle length
4–6 wks; 4–6 wks off
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Hypoglycemia (less systemic than LR3 but possible); local injection-site swelling; headache
Community take: [ANECDOTAL – advanced bodybuilding] 'Site-specific' muscle growth tool. Very potent locally. Less systemic hypoglycemia than LR3 but still a risk.
- Onset
- Local muscle effects within sessions
- Half-life
- <30 min (ultra-short)
- Storage
- Dry: Freeze –20°C unmixed · Reconstituted: Refrigerate mixed; use within 7–10 days; aliquot and freeze
- Reconstitution
- Acetic acid (0.6%) preferred for reconstitution
- Rare side effects
- Local tissue overgrowth; organ growth long-term; tumor promotion at injection site
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy; cancer history; pregnancy; diabetes; Active cancer or history of malignancy (IGF-1 pathway is a known driver of tumor; Pregnancy and breastfeeding (no safety data; IGF-1 signaling is critical in feta; Diabetics on insulin therapy (severe additive hypoglycemia risk from combined in; Insulin and insulin analogs (additive hypoglycemic effects throug
- Drug interactions
- Insulin (additive hypoglycemia)
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1 levels; fasting glucose; local tissue assessment
- Stacks well with
- NOT combined with insulin. LR3 vs DES: LR3 for systemic; DES for local muscle targeting.
- Secondary uses
- Tissue repair; local anabolic effect
- Research status
- Preclinical; no human clinical trials; advanced gray-market use only
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $40–$100 / 1 mg vial
- Research evidence
- very-low
- Indications
- Cell biology research; Muscle hypertrophy studies; Growth factor signaling research; Neuroscience research
- Chemical data
- CAS 112603-35-7 · C319H495N91O96S7 · ~7649 Da
- Amino acids
- 67 aa
Pentadeca Arginate
aka PDA, PDA, Pentadecapeptide Arginate
How it works: Promotes collagen production and tissue repair while reducing inflammation to support healing.
Tissue repair, anti-inflammatory response, wound healing
Administration
SubQ injection
- Secondary uses
- Post-surgical recovery, neuroprotection, angiogenesis, skin health, anti-aging
- Research status
- Preclinical only
- FDA status
- Not approved; classified as Category 2 bulk drug substance (prohibited in compounding under Section 503A and 503B)
PEG-MGF
aka Pegylated Mechano Growth Factor, PEG-MGF Peptide, PEGylated IGF-1Ec
How it works: Activates muscle satellite cells at the site of mechanical stress, promoting local fiber repair and growth.
Systemic satellite cell activation; muscle hypertrophy; twice-weekly dosing
Research dose
200-400 mcg, 2×/week
Real-world (reported)
200 mcg SubQ 2×/week. Monitor IGF-1.
Administration
SubQ/IM
Timing
Post-workout or any time (long-acting)
Cycle length
4–6 wks; 4 wks off
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Injection-site reactions; headache; mild water retention
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] More popular than native MGF due to twice-weekly convenience. Limited community vs IGF-1 LR3.
- Onset
- Satellite cell activation; hypertrophy 2–4 wks
- Half-life
- ~days (PEGylated)
- Storage
- Dry: Freeze –20°C; more stable than native MGF · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 28 days
- Reconstitution
- Add 2 mL BAC water to 2 mg vial = 1 mg/mL
- Rare side effects
- Tumor promotion (IGF pathway); PEG accumulation chronic (theoretical); PCAC review pending
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy; pregnancy; Active malignancy or history of cancer; Pregnancy and breastfeeding; Known hypersensitivity to PEG or MGF peptide; Prior severe reactions to PEGylated products
- Drug interactions
- Insulin (hypoglycemia); IGF-1 axis compounds
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1; fasting glucose; CBC
- Stacks well with
- IGF-1 LR3: systemic alternative. MGF: local acute version.
- Secondary uses
- Muscle repair; anti-catabolic; recovery
- Research status
- Preclinical; no human clinical trials; gray-market advanced use; FDA PCAC review pending
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only; PCAC review pending · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $50–$120 / 2 mg vial
- Research evidence
- very-low
- Indications
- Extended-duration muscle repair research; Satellite cell proliferation and activation studies; PEGylation and drug delivery optimization research; Comparative pharmacokinetic studies with native MGF; Tissue regeneration research
- Chemical data
- C121H200N42O39 + PEG · (typical)2000-5000 Da
- Amino acids
- 28 aa
Follistatin-315
aka FST-315
How it works: Blocks myostatin, the protein that limits muscle growth, releasing the brake on muscle - this version acts more on local tissues.
Muscle hypertrophy; fat loss; anti-catabolic; potential anti-aging via muscle preservation
Research dose
100-200 mcg, Twice weekly
Real-world (reported)
100 mcg SubQ 2×/week. Advanced users only. Monitor FSH/testosterone.
Administration
SubQ / IM
Timing
Post-workout
Cycle length
4–8 weeks; 4+ weeks off
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Injection-site reactions; headache; possible excessive muscle growth
Community take: [ANECDOTAL – advanced bodybuilding] 'Extreme muscle growth.' Limited community experience due to difficulty sourcing and high cost. Reported results impressive but safety profile uncertain.
- Onset
- Muscle anabolic effects 2–4 wks
- Half-life
- Hours (clearance)
- Storage
- Dry: Freeze –20°C · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 7–14 days
- Reconstitution
- Add 1 mL ACetic acid (0.6%) or BAC water
- Rare side effects
- Excessive muscle hypertrophy; limited long-term safety data; theoretical concern re activin in reproductive axis; testosterone suppression (activin inhibition affects FSH)
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy; pregnancy; desire for future fertility (FSH/reproductive effects); hormone-sensitive conditions
- Drug interactions
- Testosterone/sex hormones (activin pathway); FSH (reproductive monitoring needed)
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1; testosterone; FSH; LH; CBC; body composition
- Stacks well with
- Ipamorelin + CJC-1295: muscle building stack. IGF-1 LR3: advanced anabolic stack.
- Secondary uses
- Bone density; fertility modulation; fibrosis reduction
- Research status
- Preclinical animal data robust; gene therapy studies; limited human pharmacology; no clinical trials as standalone
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $200–$500+ / 1 mg vial
Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine complexed with copper
aka GHK-Cu, GHK-Cu, Copper Peptide GHK-Cu, Copper Tripeptide-1
How it works: Endogenous regenerative peptide that targets aging-related biological mechanisms in the brain through route-dependent molecular pathways.
Age-related cognitive decline, hippocampal-dependent learning, cognitive aging
Research dose
15-15 mg/kg, Daily (injectable) or topical as directed
Real-world (reported)
1–2 mg SubQ daily 4–8 wks; topical 0.1–0.5% GHK-Cu serum daily
Administration
Intraperitoneal injection; Intranasal
Timing
Any time
Cycle length
4–12 weeks
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: None reported in this study
Community take: In aged mice, intranasal GHK-Cu delivery produces sustained improvements in hippocampal-dependent learning and coordinated suppression of age-associated molecular pathways, while intraperitoneal dosing activates acute stress-response mechanisms with transient behavioral effects. Route of administration and exposure duration are critical determinants of cognitive outcome.
- Onset
- 4–12 weeks
- Half-life
- Minutes plasma; tissue sustained
- Storage
- Dry: Fridge 2–8°C; freeze >6 mo; light sensitive · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 14–21 days (copper degrades faster than most)
- Reconstitution
- Add 1 mL BAC water to 1 mg vial = 1 mg/mL; 1 IU = 0.01 mg
- Rare side effects
- Excessive copper: nausea, hepatotoxicity (theoretical supra-physiological dose)
- Contraindications
- Wilson's disease; pregnancy; copper allergy; Known copper allergy or hypersensitivity; Wilson's disease or copper metabolism disorders; Open wounds near eyes (topical use); Pregnancy and breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)Frequency distribution of
- Drug interactions
- Copper chelators (penicillamine); copper supplementation
- Recommended bloodwork
- Serum copper + ceruloplasmin if injectable long-term; CMP
- Stacks well with
- BPC-157 + TB-500 (GLOW Stack); Epitalon (anti-aging); Thymalin (immune + tissue)
- Secondary uses
- Anti-inflammatory, regenerative properties
- Research status
- Preclinical — in vivo mouse studies, preprint
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Injectable: research use only; PCAC pending. Topical: legal OTC · UK: Legal topically; injectable research use · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Injectable Schedule 4; topical cosmetic OK · EU: Topical cosmetic legal; injectable varies
- Typical price
- Injectable $20–$40/mg; Topical serum $20–$80/bottle
- Research evidence
- low
- Indications
- Wound healing research; Skin rejuvenation and anti-aging applications; Hair growth stimulation studies; Tissue remodeling investigations
- Chemical data
- CAS 49557-75-7 · C14H24CuN6O4 · (complex)~403.93 Da
- Amino acids
- 11 aa
CJC-1295 + GHRP-6
aka Bulk Stack, CJC-1295 no DAC + GHRP-6 combination
How it works: A bulking stack of two growth-hormone boosters for a strong GH pulse, with GHRP-6 also driving big appetite to support eating in a surplus.
Maximum GH pulse for bulking; muscle mass; strong appetite stimulation — useful for hard gainers
Research dose
200-300 mcg each, Pre-bed; or pre-workout for bulking push
Real-world (reported)
200–300 mcg each SubQ 1–2×/day. ONLY for bulking — prepare food before injecting GHRP-6.
Administration
SubQ
Timing
Pre-bed or pre-workout; 2h fast before
Cycle length
8–12 wks on; 4 wks off
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Strong hunger/appetite (GHRP-6 signature); head rush; flushing; cortisol bump; water retention
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] Old-school bulking GH stack. GHRP-6 hunger is intense. 'Eat everything in the house after injecting.' Replaced by CJC+Ipa for most uses except hard-gainer bulk phases.
- Onset
- GH pulse 30 min; strong hunger within minutes; body composition 8–12 wks
- Half-life
- CJC: ~30 min; GHRP-6: ~30 min
- Storage
- Dry: Fridge 2–8°C; freeze long storage · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 28 days
- Reconstitution
- Reconstitute each separately; inject simultaneously or sequentially
- Rare side effects
- Cortisol elevation; prolactin elevation (GHRP-6); significant appetite may cause unwanted weight gain if not in bulk phase
- Contraindications
- Cutting/fat-loss goals (appetite stimulus); active malignancy; pregnancy
- Drug interactions
- Glucocorticoids; prolactin-modulating drugs
- Recommended bloodwork
- IGF-1; cortisol; prolactin; body weight; fasting glucose
- Stacks well with
- Note: for non-bulk goals, replace GHRP-6 with Ipamorelin (no appetite/cortisol issues).
- Secondary uses
- Body recomposition (if appetite managed); recovery
- Research status
- Community protocol based on established CJC-1295 + GHRP-6 pairing literature
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $35–$75 combined per dose session
Conantokin G
aka CGX-1007, Con-G, CGX-1007, Conantokin-G
How it works: A 17 amino acid peptide that selectively inhibits NR2B subunits of NMDA receptors with potential therapeutic applications for pain management.
Pain management, seizure prevention, neuroprotection
Research dose
1-100 mcg
Administration
Administered directly into the central nervous system, most preferably intrathecally.
Common side effects: Well-tolerated and does not display many of the typical NMDAR antagonist-induced side effects.
- Secondary uses
- Ischemic stroke neuroprotection, anti-apoptotic effects
- Research status
- CGX-1007 has received investigational new drug status by the US Food and Drug Administration with Phase I (safety) clinical trials recently completed.
ACE-031
aka ActRIIB-Fc, ActRIIB-IgG1 Fc, Activin Receptor Type IIB Decoy
How it works: ACE-031 is a soluble form of the activin receptor type IIB (ActRIIB) fused to the Fc portion of human IgG1 antibody. It acts as a decoy receptor that traps myostatin and related TGF-beta superfamily ligands, preventing them from binding to endogenous receptors and thereby promoting muscle growth. Clinical development was halted in 2013 due to safety concerns including epistaxis and telangiectasias
Duchenne muscular dystrophy research (clinical development discontinued); Muscle wasting and sarcopenia research; Myostatin pathway biology studies; Neuromuscular disease therapeutic development
Administration
SC
Timing
No specific time of day required; allow solution to reach room temperature before injection✓ Rotate injection sites
Cycle length
12 weeks (based on Phase 2 DMD protocol; trial was terminated early)
- Half-life
- Approximately 10-15 days (estimated from pharmacokinetic data)
- Storage
- Dry: ACE-031 protein solutions should be stored at 2-8 degrees Celsius (refrigerated). Protect from freezing and agitation. Protein solutions are sensitive
- Contraindications
- ACE-031 is a discontinued investigational compound not approved for any use; Individuals with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia or vascular fragility dis; Active bleeding disorders or conditions predisposing to hemorrhage; Pregnancy (potential effects on angiogenesis and fetal development)Frequency dis
- Research status
- Phase 2
- FDA status
- Not approved
- Legal status
- US: Withdrawn From Market
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Duchenne muscular dystrophy research (clinical development discontinued); Muscle wasting and sarcopenia research; Myostatin pathway biology studies; Neuromuscular disease therapeutic development
- Chemical data
- Complex fusion protein · 130000 Da
- Amino acids
- 79 aa
EPO
aka Erythropoietin, Epoetin, Epoetin Alfa
How it works: Erythropoietin (EPO) is a 30.4 kDa glycoprotein hormone produced primarily by the kidneys that stimulates erythropoiesis (red blood cell production). Recombinant human EPO (epoetin alfa) is FDA-approved for treating anemia associated with chronic kidney disease, chemotherapy, and other conditions. EPO is also extensively studied for neuroprotective properties and is notoriously misused as a perfor
Anemia treatment in chronic kidney disease; Chemotherapy-induced anemia management; Neuroprotection research
Administration
SC
Timing
No specific time of day; for dialysis patients, often given during dialysis session via IV✓ Rotate injection sites
Cycle length
Ongoing with dose adjustments to maintain target hemoglobin
- Half-life
- 1-Apr
- Storage
- Dry: Store at 2-8C (36-46F). Do not freeze or shake. Protect from light. Single-dose vials should be used immediately once opened. Multi-dose vials may be
- Contraindications
- Uncontrolled hypertension; Known hypersensitivity to mammalian cell-derived products; Pure red cell aplasia following prior EPO therapy; Patients with cancer receiving EPO for hemoglobin above 12 g/dLFrequency distrib
- Research status
- Approved
- FDA status
- FDA approved
- Legal status
- US: Approved
- Research evidence
- high
- Indications
- Anemia treatment in chronic kidney disease; Chemotherapy-induced anemia management; Neuroprotection research
- Chemical data
- CAS 11096-26-7 · Glycoprotein (C809H1301N229O240S5 protein core plus carbohydrate) · 30400 Da
- Amino acids
- 165 aa
HGH 191AA
aka Somatotropin, Recombinant Human Growth Hormone, rhGH
How it works: HGH 191AA is recombinant human growth hormone, a 191-amino acid single-chain polypeptide identical to endogenous pituitary-derived somatotropin. It is FDA-approved for growth hormone deficiency, Turner syndrome, chronic renal insufficiency, and other conditions affecting growth and metabolism.New to growth hormone peptides?Browse all growth hormone peptides →Table of Contents📌TL;DR•FDA-approved f
Growth hormone deficiency treatment (pediatric and adult); Turner syndrome growth support; Chronic renal insufficiency-related growth failure; AIDS-related wasting syndrome
Administration
SC
Timing
Anti-aging: before bed (mimics natural GH pulse); Performance: morning fasted and/or post-workout; avoid close to meals high in carbs/fat✓ Rotate inje
Cycle length
3-6 months minimum; some protocols run 6-12 months or longerStep-wise Titration
- Half-life
- SC:
- Reconstitution
- Bacteriostatic water
- Contraindications
- Acute critical illness (cardiac/abdominal surgery, multiple trauma, acute respir; Active malignancy or evidence of neoplastic activity; Active proliferative or severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy; Prader-Willi syndrome with severe obesity or respiratory impairment
- Research status
- Approved
- FDA status
- FDA approved
- Legal status
- US: Approved
- Research evidence
- low
- Indications
- Growth hormone deficiency treatment (pediatric and adult); Turner syndrome growth support; Chronic renal insufficiency-related growth failure; AIDS-related wasting syndrome
- Chemical data
- CAS 12629-01-5 · C990H1529N263O299S7 · 22124 Da
- Amino acids
- 191 aa
Alpha-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone
aka ACTH 1-13 fragment, α-MSH, MSH, Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone
How it works: Alpha-MSH is a 13-amino-acid endogenous neuropeptide derived from proopiomelanocortin (POMC), acting as a non-selective agonist at melanocortin receptors, playing central roles in pigmentation, appetite regulation, anti-inflammatory signaling, neuroprotection, and immune modulation.
Appetite suppression, anti-inflammatory signaling, immune modulation, neuroprotection
Research dose
1-100 mcg, [ANECDOTAL]—research studies used varied frequencies; intranasal single dose studies; oral ingestion in animal models; intraperitoneal injection in mouse models
Administration
Subcutaneous injection, intranasal, oral ingestion (research models), topical (eye drops), intravenous
Common side effects: Skin hyperpigmentation, darkening of preexisting nevi and ephelides, and development of melanocytic nevi are known potential side effects
- Rare side effects
- At doses ≥1 mg (central administration in animal models): increased salivation, agitation, ataxia, respiratory distress, and death (in 30% of animals)
- Secondary uses
- Fever reduction, ischemia/reperfusion injury protection, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, contact dermatitis, dry eye disease
- Research status
- Preclinical and animal model research; synthetic analogs in clinical trials
- Legal status
- US: Despite a ban by the United States Food and Drug Administration, commercially produced, unregulated peptide analogs of α-MSH (eg, melanotan, melanotan II) remain available for sale online
Endomorphin 2
aka H-Tyr-Pro-Phe-Phe-NH2, EM-2, EM2
How it works: Endomorphin-2 exhibits the highest affinity and specificity for μ-opioid receptors of any compound found in the mammalian nervous system.
Pain management, analgesia, antinociception
Administration
Intracerebroventricular injection; subcutaneous administration (animal studies); intrathecal administration (spinal)
Common side effects: Short duration of effects most likely due to rapid degradation by peptidases; rapid desensitization
- Onset
- Peak effect obtained 10 minutes after intracerebroventricular administration
- Rare side effects
- Endomorphin-2 shows a bell-shaped dose-response curve and produces aversive rather than rewarding effects, unlike traditional μ-opioid receptor agonists
- Secondary uses
- Food intake regulation, immunomodulation, mood effects
- Research status
- Preclinical research; animal models and in vitro studies
- FDA status
- Not approved; preclinical research only
Deltorphin II
aka [D-Ala2]deltorphin II; Tyr-D-Ala-Phe-Glu-Val-Val-Gly-NH2, [D-Ala2]Deltorphin II, DADELT II, D-Ala2-deltorphin II
How it works: Selective delta opioid receptor agonist with antinociceptive activity.
Cardioprotection in ischemia/reperfusion injury, pain relief (antinociception), neuropathic pain
Research dose
0.12-0.12 mg/kg
Administration
Intravenous injection; intracerebroventricular injection; intrathecal (spinal); topical (nociceptor studies)
Common side effects: Hypothermia (at high doses)
- Onset
- Maximal effects at 10 minutes with significant antinociception lasting 40-60 minutes following intracerebroventricular administration
- Contraindications
- Not established in available literature
- Secondary uses
- Memory consolidation, motor stimulation (central), peripheral nociceptor inhibition after nerve injury
- Research status
- Preclinical research (animal models)
- FDA status
- Not approved
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · EU: Research use only
Apitegromab
aka SRK-015, SRK015
How it works: Apitegromab (SRK-015) is a fully human IgG4-lambda monoclonal antibody that selectively binds to the pro- and latent forms of myostatin, preventing its activation in skeletal muscle. Developed by Scholar Rock, it is the first muscle-targeted therapy to demonstrate clinical benefit in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), achieving its primary endpoint in the Phase 3 SAPPHIRE trial with a statistically si
Motor function improvement in Types 2 and 3 spinal muscular atrophy; Adjunct to SMN-targeted therapies (nusinersen, risdiplam) in SMA; Lean mass preservation during GLP-1/GIP agonist-induced weight loss
Administration
IV
Timing
Administered as IV infusion at clinical sites under medical supervision. Background SMN-targeted therapy (nusinersen or risdiplam) required in all pat
Cycle length
12 months (pivotal study)
- Half-life
- Mean apparent terminal half-life of
- Contraindications
- Apitegromab has not yet been approved for any indication. Formal contraindicatio; Known hypersensitivity to apitegromab or its excipients (none observed in clinic; Type 1 SMA patients were not studied in SAPPHIRE and safety in this population h; Nusinersen (Spin
- Research status
- Phase 3
- FDA status
- Not approved
- Legal status
- US: Investigational
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Motor function improvement in Types 2 and 3 spinal muscular atrophy; Adjunct to SMN-targeted therapies (nusinersen, risdiplam) in SMA; Lean mass preservation during GLP-1/GIP agonist-induced weight loss
- Chemical data
- CAS 2278276-46-1 · Complex immunoglobulin · 150000 Da
- Amino acids
- 248 aa
Bimagrumab
aka BYM338
How it works: Bimagrumab (BYM338) is a fully human IgG1 monoclonal antibody that blocks activin type II receptors (ActRIIA and ActRIIB), inhibiting myostatin, activin A, and other TGF-beta superfamily ligands that suppress muscle growth. Originally developed by Novartis, licensed to Versanis Bio, then acquired by Eli Lilly for up to $1.925 billion in 2023. Phase 2 trials demonstrated simultaneous fat mass loss
Body composition improvement (fat loss with muscle preservation); Combination therapy with GLP-1 receptor agonists for obesity; Sarcopenia research (age-related muscle loss); Inclusion body myositis (failed primary endpoint in RESILIENT); Muscle wasting conditions (COPD, hip fracture recovery)
Administration
IV
Timing
Administered as IV infusion at clinical sites. The BELIEVE trial used approximately Q12W dosing (4 infusions over 48 weeks) in combination with semagl
Cycle length
48 weeks
- Half-life
- Approximately 19 days in humans, consistent with typical IgG1 monoclonal antibod
- Contraindications
- Bimagrumab has not been approved for any indication. Formal contraindications ha; Conditions involving TGF-beta superfamily signaling (e.g., hereditary hemorrhagi; Pregnancy and breastfeeding, as activin signaling plays critical roles in reprod
- Research status
- Phase 2
- FDA status
- Not approved
- Legal status
- US: Investigational
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Body composition improvement (fat loss with muscle preservation); Combination therapy with GLP-1 receptor agonists for obesity; Sarcopenia research (age-related muscle loss); Inclusion body myositis (failed primary endpoint in RESILIENT); Muscle wasting conditions (COPD, hip fracture recovery)
- Chemical data
- Complex immunoglobulin · 145000 Da
- Amino acids
- 445 aa
Enobosarm
aka Ostarine, GTx-024, MK-2866
How it works: Enobosarm (Ostarine, GTx-024, MK-2866) is an oral nonsteroidal selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM) being developed by Veru Inc. for muscle preservation during GLP-1 receptor agonist-induced weight loss. In the Phase 2b QUALITY trial, enobosarm 3 mg combined with semaglutide eliminated lean mass loss (0% lean mass loss, 100% fat mass loss) and preserved physical function in older adults. T
Muscle preservation during GLP-1 receptor agonist weight loss therapy; Lean body mass improvement in elderly (investigational); Cancer-associated muscle wasting (prior clinical program)
Administration
Oral
Timing
Once daily oral administration; no specific timing requirement reported
Cycle length
16-72 weeks (trial dependent)Step-wise Titration
- Half-life
- Approximately
- Storage
- Dry: Controlled room temperature (15-30 degrees C)
- Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to enobosarm or any excipient; Pregnancy and breastfeeding (androgen receptor modulation may cause fetal harm); Hormone-sensitive cancers (androgen receptor activation may stimulate tumor grow; Active liver disease or significantly elevated liver enzymesFrequency distributi
- Research status
- Phase 2b
- Legal status
- US: Investigational
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Muscle preservation during GLP-1 receptor agonist weight loss therapy; Lean body mass improvement in elderly (investigational); Cancer-associated muscle wasting (prior clinical program)
- Chemical data
- CAS 841205-47-8 · C19H14F3N3O3 · 389.33 Da
- Amino acids
- 48 aa
GDF-8
aka Myostatin, Growth Differentiation Factor 8, MSTN
How it works: GDF-8 (myostatin) is a TGF-beta superfamily protein that acts as a potent negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth. Its inhibition is a major therapeutic target for muscle wasting conditions including muscular dystrophy, sarcopenia, and cachexia.New to musculoskeletal peptides?Browse all musculoskeletal peptides →Table of Contents📌TL;DR•Key therapeutic target for muscle wasting and muscular d
GDF-8 (myostatin) is a TGF-beta superfamily protein that acts as a potent negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth. Its inhibition is a major therapeutic target for muscle wasting conditions including muscular dystrophy, sarcopenia, and cachexia.
Administration
IV
Timing
No specific time of day; administered in clinical settings for IV agents
Cycle length
24-48 weeks in clinical trials
- Half-life
- Circulates in latent propeptide complex; active form half-life not precisely det
- Storage
- Dry: Biologic myostatin inhibitors should be stored at 2-8 degrees C (refrigerated). Do not freeze unless product labeling specifically permits it. Protect
- Contraindications
- Active cardiovascular disease (theoretical concern with cardiac hypertrophy); Active malignancy (growth factor pathway modulation); Pregnancy and breastfeeding (no safety data); Children (limited safety data; growth and development effects unknown)Frequency
- Research status
- Phase 3
- FDA status
- Not approved
- Legal status
- US: Preclinical Research
- Research evidence
- high
- Chemical data
- CAS 346693-49-8 · C1237H1927N355O374S10 · ~25,000 Da (dimer); ~12,500 Da (monomer) Da
- Amino acids
- 352 aa
Trevogrumab
aka REGN1033, REGN-1033, SAR-391786
How it works: Trevogrumab (REGN1033) is a fully human IgG4 monoclonal antibody that selectively binds and neutralizes myostatin (GDF-8), the primary negative regulator of skeletal muscle mass. Developed by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, it is being evaluated in the Phase 2 COURAGE trial in combination with semaglutide for preserving lean mass during weight loss in patients with obesity. At 26 weeks, adding trevogru
Lean mass preservation during GLP-1 agonist therapy for obesity; Potential treatment for sarcopenia and muscle wasting conditions; Body composition optimization during weight loss
Administration
SC
Timing
Administered in combination with semaglutide 2.4 mg SC weekly in the COURAGE trial. Clinical trial setting only.
Cycle length
26-week weight-loss phase followed by 26-week maintenance
- Half-life
- Specific half-life not publicly reported. As an IgG4 antibody, the expected half
- Contraindications
- Trevogrumab has not been approved for any indication. Formal contraindications h; Pregnancy and breastfeeding, as myostatin signaling may play roles in fetal musc; Conditions requiring maintained myostatin signaling for physiological balance (t; GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide
- Research status
- Phase 2
- FDA status
- Not approved
- Legal status
- US: Investigational
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Lean mass preservation during GLP-1 agonist therapy for obesity; Potential treatment for sarcopenia and muscle wasting conditions; Body composition optimization during weight loss
- Chemical data
- CAS 1429201-24-0 · Complex immunoglobulin · 150000 Da
- Amino acids
- 221 aa
Example stacks
Recovery - Beginner
BPC-157 alone is the most straightforward entry point. Well-studied, local injection near the injury site, effective for soft tissue repair.
- • Inject subcutaneously as close to the injury as safely possible
- • Oral BPC-157 on empty stomach works for general recovery
- • Stay consistent - daily dosing matters
Recovery - Intermediate
BPC-157 handles local tissue repair while TB-500 works systemically. Covers both acute injury and general training recovery.
- • Split TB-500 into two equal injections per week
- • Combine with active recovery - movement helps
- • Use BPC-157 locally and TB-500 anywhere on body
Community outcome data
Collected from users researching this goal. Not a clinical database - for general reference only.
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