IGF-1 LR3 (1mg)
IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3 Insulin-like Growth Factor-1) is a modified analog of human IGF-1 with a significantly extended half-life, studied for its anabolic and metabolic actions. This synthetic variant exhibits reduced binding to IGF binding proteins, allowing for enhanced bioavailability and systemic action. This protocol outlines a once-daily subcutaneous approach with conservative titration.
Reviewed by the AllPeptides.eu Editorial Team·Last reviewed: 2026-06-16
Educational information. Not medical advice, and no efficacy claim is implied. Regulatory approval is not a use recommendation by AllPeptides.eu.
⚠️ For informational/educational purposes only. Not medical advice. We do not sell any products. Self-treatment carries serious risks — consult a healthcare professional. Disclaimer
How It Works
IGF-1 LR3 is a synthetic analog of human insulin-like growth factor-1 engineered with an N-terminal extension (13 amino acids) and a glutamic acid substitution at position 3, resulting in significantly reduced binding affinity for IGF binding proteins. This modification extends the peptide's half-life from minutes (native IGF-1) to several hours and enhances systemic bioavailability. The prolonged circulation time permits once-daily administration protocols. Unlike native IGF-1, which requires frequent dosing, IGF-1 LR3 maintains more stable plasma levels. The peptide manifests anabolic and metabolic activities via binding to the IGF-1 receptor. Its insulin-like properties necessitate careful blood glucose management, especially during initial titration phases.
Quick Start
- Reconstitution: Add 3.0 mL of 0.6% acetic acid → ~0.333 mg/mL. ⚠️ Acetic acid only — BAC water does not properly dissolve IGF-1 LR3 due to its hydrophobic structure.
- Typical Daily Range: 20–50 mcg once daily subcutaneously (gradual titration).
- Storage: Lyophilized: freezer −20 °C; after reconstitution, refrigerate 2–8 °C; use within 30 days; avoid freeze-thaw.
Typical / Gradual Approach (3 mL = ~0.333 mg/mL)
Route: Subcutaneous | Frequency: Once daily
| Week | Dose | Units (per injection) |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–2 | 20 mcg (0.02 mg) | 6 Units (0.06 mL) |
| Weeks 3–4 | 40 mcg (0.04 mg) | 12 Units (0.12 mL) |
| Weeks 5–8 | 50 mcg (0.05 mg) | 15 Units (0.15 mL) |
Studies report administration once daily subcutaneously, typically in the morning or after exercise, with food intake to mitigate insulin-like effects on blood glucose.
Related compounds
Reconstitution Steps
- ⚠️ Use 0.6% acetic acid exclusively — DO NOT use bacteriostatic water. IGF-1 LR3 is hydrophobic (83 amino acids) and does not properly dissolve at a neutral pH.
- Draw 3.0 mL of 0.6% acetic acid with a sterile syringe.
- Inject slowly down the side of the vial; avoid foaming; do not shake.
- Gently swirl until fully dissolved into a clear solution (may take 2–3 minutes).
- Note date of reconstitution and refrigerate at 2–8 °C, protecting from light.
- Use within 30 days; for longer storage, prepare aliquots and freeze at −20 °C.
Protocol Overview
- Goal: Support anabolic processes and metabolic function via enhanced IGF-1 action with extended bioavailability.
- Schedule: Daily subcutaneous injections for 8 weeks (typical cycle); may be extended to 12 weeks.
- Storage: Lyophilized frozen at −20 °C; reconstituted refrigerated; avoid freeze-thaw cycles.
- Cycling: Common approach is 8 weeks on, 4–8 weeks off to prevent receptor desensitization.
Dosing Protocol
- Initiation (Wk 1–2): 20 mcg daily to assess tolerance, particularly regarding blood glucose effects.
- Titration (Wk 3–4): Increase to 40 mcg daily if Wk 1–2 were well-tolerated without significant hypoglycemic symptoms.
- Maintenance (Wk 5–8): Maintain at 50 mcg daily; considered the conservative upper limit.
- Frequency: Once daily subcutaneously; timing is often with meals (morning or post-workout).
- Cycle Duration: 8 weeks is typical; 12-week protocols exist but may show diminished returns after Wk 6–8.
- Break between cycles: After a cycle (8 weeks), a 4–8 week washout period is recommended. This break prevents desensitization of IGF-1 receptors.
Washout & Cycle Restart
When can I restart?
After a cycle (8 weeks), a 4–8 week washout period is recommended. This break prevents desensitization of IGF-1 receptors.
Minimum wait period: 4 weeks
Storage Instructions
- Lyophilized: Store at −20 °C (or −80 °C optimally) in dry, dark conditions for up to 12 months.
- Reconstituted: Refrigerate at 2–8 °C immediately after mixing; use within 30 days.
- Extended Storage: Prepare sterile aliquots and freeze at −20 °C; stable for 3–6 months. Never re-freeze a thawed vial.
- Allow frozen vials to reach room temperature before opening; always check for clarity (discard if cloudy or particulate).
Important Notes
- Hypoglycemia Awareness: Be vigilant for signs of low glucose (tremors, dizziness, sweating); have fast-acting carbohydrates available.
- Timing with Meals: Administer with or immediately after food intake to mitigate insulin-like effects.
- Do not exceed conservative dosing: Doses above 50–60 mcg/day lack robust clinical documentation.
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
Potential Benefits:
- Enhanced anabolic signaling and protein synthesis in target tissues.
- Prolonged bioavailability compared to native IGF-1 due to reduced binding protein interaction.
- Metabolic effects via IGF-1 receptor pathways.
Potential Side Effects:
- Risk of hypoglycemia: The most significant concern; insulin-like effect on blood glucose (tremors, confusion, sweating, dizziness). Always administer with food.
- Mild injection site reactions (local irritation, redness).
- Dose-dependent concerns increase at doses >50–60 mcg/day.
- Receptor desensitization may occur with continuous use >6–8 weeks.
⚠️ Serious Warnings & Long-Term Risks
The following warnings are based on published literature, FDA labels, and post-marketing surveillance. They do not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional.
Increased neoplasia risk
IGF-1 is a potent mitogenic factor. The LR3 variant has 3× longer half-life, amplifying risk. Contraindicated in active or history of neoplasia.
📄 Endocrine Reviews 2009Hypoglycemia & cardiovascular risk
IGF-1 LR3 can cause severe hypoglycemia. Chronic use may lead to cardiac hypertrophy.
📄 FDA Label — Increlex® (IGF-1 base)References
- Biomolecules (MDPI) — IGF-1 and its monitoring in medical diagnostics and sport
View Source - Dopinglinkki (FINCIS) — IGF-1 and LR3IGF-1: medical information and safety overview
View Source - Mayo Clinic / IBM Micromedex — Mecasermin (subcutaneous): proper use and timing with meals
View Source - Cell Sciences — Recombinant Human LR3 IGF-1: technical specifications for storage and stability
View Source - Frontiers in Bioengineering & Biotechnology — IGF-1: a promising therapeutic target for peripheral nerve injury
View Source
Recommended Supplements
L-Arginine + L-Ornithine
ZMA (Zinc + Magnesium + B6)
External Sources & Regulatory Status
Regulatory Approvals
Increlex® (IGF-1 base) · IGF-1 deficiency (children) (2005)
IGF-1 base FDA approved (LR3 variant research-only)
Educational information. Not medical advice, and no efficacy claim is implied. Regulatory approval is not a use recommendation by AllPeptides.eu.
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