BPC-157 vs Ipamorelin: Side-by-Side Comparison
A comprehensive comparison of BPC-157 and Ipamorelin: mechanism, dosage, approval status, clinical results, side effects, and which is right for your goals.
BPC-157
AKA: Body Protection Compound 157, PL 14736
A synthetic peptide derived from gastric juice protein, studied for accelerating healing of tendons, muscles, and gut tissue.
Investigational / ResearchIpamorelin
AKA: NNC 26-0161
A selective growth hormone secretagogue that boosts GH release with minimal side effects — popular for anti-aging and body composition.
Investigational / ResearchHead-to-Head Comparison
| Category | BPC-157 | Ipamorelin |
|---|---|---|
| Class | Peptide Fragment (Gastric Protein Derivative) | Growth Hormone Secretagogue (GHRP) |
| Typical Dose | 250-500 mcg Once or twice daily | 200-300 mcg 1–3 times daily (often before bed and/or around workouts) |
| Half-Life | Unknown in humans; estimated 4–6 hours based on animal data | ~2 hours |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, Intramuscular injection, Oral (for gut effects) | Subcutaneous injection |
| FDA Approval | No FDA approval. Research use only. | No FDA approval. Research use only. |
| Primary Uses | Tendon and ligament healing, Muscle repair, Gut healing / leaky gut, Anti-inflammatory effects, Injury recovery | Growth hormone stimulation, Body composition improvement, Anti-aging, Sleep quality enhancement, Recovery optimization |
| Legal Status | Research chemical in the US. Not FDA approved. No schedule classification. Legal gray area — legal to purchase for research, not for human use. | Research chemical in the US. Not FDA approved. Available through peptide research suppliers. |
Side Effects Comparison
BPC-157
Ipamorelin
Both Used For
Who Should Choose Which?
Choose BPC-157 if:
- • You want tendon and ligament healing
- • You are comfortable with investigational compounds and clinical trial enrollment
- • Subcutaneous injection is your preferred route
- • You are willing to wait for FDA approval (projected 2027–2028) or can enroll in an active trial
Choose Ipamorelin if:
- • You want growth hormone stimulation
- • You are comfortable with investigational compounds
- • Subcutaneous injection is your preferred route
Switching From One to the Other
If you are currently on Ipamorelin and considering switching to BPC-157 (or vice versa), here is what to plan for:
Switching from Ipamorelin to BPC-157
- • Eligibility: BPC-157 is only available in clinical trials. Standard prescription switching is not yet possible.
- • Washout: Weekly GLP-1 drugs typically require 4–8 weeks washout due to extended half-lives (~7 days). Overlapping two GLP-class drugs increases GI side effect risk.
- • Re-titration: Start at the lowest dose of the new drug and re-titrate — even if you tolerated high doses of the previous drug.
- • Expect adjustment: 4–12 weeks for full receptor adaptation to the new molecule.
Switching from BPC-157 to Ipamorelin
- • Access: Ipamorelin is investigational.
- • Washout: Same 4–8 week washout principle applies — allow the first drug to clear before starting the second.
- • Weight: Expect some weight regain during the washout period as appetite normalizes without active drug coverage.
- • Indication: Ensure Ipamorelin is appropriate for your indication — approval status and coverage differ.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between BPC-157 and Ipamorelin?
BPC-157 (Peptide Fragment (Gastric Protein Derivative)) and Ipamorelin (Growth Hormone Secretagogue (GHRP)) differ in their receptor targets, mechanism of action, and clinical applications. BPC-157: A synthetic peptide derived from gastric juice protein, studied for accelerating healing of tendons, muscles, and gut tissue. Ipamorelin: A selective growth hormone secretagogue that boosts GH release with minimal side effects — popular for anti-aging and body composition.
Which is better for weight loss — BPC-157 or Ipamorelin?
Both BPC-157 and Ipamorelin may support weight loss, but their approved indications and clinical evidence differ. BPC-157 approval: No FDA approval. Research use only.. Ipamorelin approval: No FDA approval. Research use only.. Consult a healthcare provider to determine which is appropriate for your situation.
Can you take BPC-157 and Ipamorelin together?
Combining BPC-157 and Ipamorelin has not been studied in clinical trials and is not recommended without direct medical supervision. The pharmacological overlap between them may increase the risk of side effects.
Is BPC-157 stronger than Ipamorelin?
BPC-157 and Ipamorelin have different mechanisms and have not been directly compared in head-to-head trials. The available trial data for each drug was generated in different populations and timeframes, making direct comparison difficult.
Which should I choose — BPC-157 or Ipamorelin?
The choice depends on your specific goals, medical history, cost considerations, and physician guidance. Review the mechanism, dosing, and side effect profiles of each with a healthcare provider before deciding.
Can I switch from Ipamorelin to BPC-157?
Switching between GLP-class drugs is possible but requires a washout period and physician oversight. For weekly injectable GLP-1 drugs, a typical washout is 4–8 weeks due to the extended half-life. Switching while BPC-157 remains investigational is not a standard clinical option — you would need to enroll in a clinical trial or wait for FDA approval. Discuss transition planning with your prescribing physician.