Peptide
IGF-1
SaveInsulin-like Growth Factor 1, the primary mediator of growth hormone effects. Recombinant form (mecasermin) is FDA-approved for severe primary IGF-1 deficiency.
Quick verdict
Proven pharmaceutical for severe IGF-1 deficiency. Off-label use for muscle growth or anti-aging carries significant risk, including hypoglycemia and potential cancer promotion.
Evidence score
A rough internal score reflecting quantity, quality, and consistency of human evidence. Not a clinical recommendation.
What the research shows
Well-characterized endocrine biology. FDA-approved for a narrow indication. Epidemiological data associate high IGF-1 with increased cancer risk.
Benefits
- FDA-approved for severe IGF-1 deficiency
- Promotes linear growth and anabolic effects
- Well-characterized pharmacology
Dosage notes
Mecasermin (Increlex): 0.04–0.12 mg/kg subcutaneously twice daily with meals.
Side effects
- Severe hypoglycemia
- Injection-site lipohypertrophy
- Intracranial hypertension
- Theoretical cancer risk with supraphysiologic levels
Who should be cautious
Severe hypoglycemia risk. Epidemiological cancer associations. Must be used under medical supervision.
What this page cannot tell you
Approved only for severe primary IGF-1 deficiency (Laron syndrome). Off-label use extrapolation is not supported by trial data.
Leaderboard scores
- Muscle50
- Recovery40
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