What it is
IGF-1 DES (Des(1-3) IGF-1) is a truncated form of insulin-like growth factor 1 missing the first three N-terminal amino acids (Gly-Pro-Glu). That truncation dramatically reduces binding to IGF binding proteins, making it roughly 10-fold more potent than intact IGF-1 in stimulating proliferation and hypertrophy in vitro.
Evidence boundary
Preclinical research only. Research use is limited to laboratory and education contexts.
Trial evidence
- In vitro and preclinical studies demonstrate potent proliferative and hypertrophic activity with markedly reduced IGFBP binding.
Preparation and measurement
Reconstitution: 1 mg vial + 1 mL BAC = 1 mg/mL.
Concentration matches.
Reference schedule
| Phase | Dose | Draw / measure | Frequency | Weekly total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative start | 50 mcg | 5 U (0.05 mL) | Pre/post-workout | 0.3–0.5 mg/week |
| Standard research | 100 mcg | 10 U (0.1 mL) | Pre/post-workout | 0.7–1 mg/week |
Conservative start
- Dose
- 50 mcg
- Draw / measure
- 5 U (0.05 mL)
- Frequency
- Pre/post-workout
- Weekly total
- 0.3–0.5 mg/week
Standard research
- Dose
- 100 mcg
- Draw / measure
- 10 U (0.1 mL)
- Frequency
- Pre/post-workout
- Weekly total
- 0.7–1 mg/week
Weekly totals apply only during the active phase.
Titration rules
- Common range: 20–100 mcg per injection; typically 50 mcg bilaterally into target muscles.
- Training days only — IGF-1 DES is short-acting and used in the peri-workout window.
- Half-life is very short (minutes); pre- or post-workout timing matters more than daily frequency.
- Do not combine with high-dose insulin research without specific reason; both are potent growth signals.