Comparison
Ipamorelin vs. MGF (Mechano Growth Factor)
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Growth
Growth
CAS no.
170851-70-4
12-Aminosäuren-C-terminales E-Domänen-Peptid (Sequenz nicht standardisiert)
Molecular weight
711.86 g/mol
2867.2 g/mol
Half-life
2 h
0.1 h
Sequence
Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2YQPPSTNKNTKSQRRKGSTFEERKMechanism of action
Ipamorelin
Ipamorelin is a selective agonist at the GH secretagogue receptor (GHSR-1a). Compared to GHRP-2 and GHRP-6 its selectivity for the growth-hormone axis is higher; ACTH, cortisol and prolactin are not significantly stimulated in clinical studies. This selectivity was the main reason for its development over older GHRPs.
MGF (Mechano Growth Factor)
The IGF-1 gene produces multiple isoforms by alternative splicing. IGF-1Ec is upregulated after mechanical muscle loading; the C-terminal E-domain is cleaved from the mature IGF-1 protein and appears to have independent effects on satellite cells. The exact receptor binding of the E-domain is not established; a classical IGF-1R effect is unlikely since mature IGF-1 is responsible. In cell-culture studies, stimulation of myoblast proliferation and differentiation has been observed.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Animal model
Studies
4
4
of which in humans
3
0
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
1
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Ipamorelin and MGF (Mechano Growth Factor)?
- Ipamorelin is classified as "Growth", while MGF (Mechano Growth Factor) is classified as "Growth". Ipamorelin: Synthetic pentapeptide and selective growth-hormone secretagogue. Developed at Novo Nordisk in the 1990s as a pentapeptide GHRP successor; clinical development was discontinued after phase 2 (post-operative ileus). MGF (Mechano Growth Factor): Synthetic peptide corresponding to the C-terminal E-domain of the IGF-1 splice variant IGF-1Ec. Described in preclinical studies as a 'mechano-induced' skeletal muscle repair factor. No marketing approval; clinical use largely confined to the black market. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Ipamorelin or MGF (Mechano Growth Factor)?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Ipamorelin and "Animal model" for MGF (Mechano Growth Factor). A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of Ipamorelin and MGF (Mechano Growth Factor) in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Ipamorelin — Unapproved, MGF (Mechano Growth Factor) — Unapproved. United States: Ipamorelin — Unapproved, MGF (Mechano Growth Factor) — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.