Peptide Comparison
SM-130686vsIpamorelin
Experimental oral growth hormone secretagogue with anabolic potential from preclinical research
A uniquely selective growth hormone booster that tells your pituitary to release more GH without messing with your cortisol or other hormones—making it the 'clean' choice among growth hormone peptides.
At a Glance
Quick
comparison
Dose Range
SM-130686
5–20 mg
Ipamorelin
100–300 mcg
Frequency
SM-130686
Multiple times daily
Ipamorelin
Multiple times daily
Administration
SM-130686
Oral capsule or powder
Ipamorelin
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle Length
SM-130686
8-12 weeks
Ipamorelin
8-12 weeks
Onset Speed
SM-130686
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Ipamorelin
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Evidence Level
SM-130686
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
Ipamorelin
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
Efficacy
Benefit
ratings
Muscle and Strength
Recovery and Performance
Metabolic Health
GH Selectivity
Recovery Support
Safety Profile
Technical Data
Compound
specifications
SM-130686
Molecular Formula
C22H24Cl2F3N3O3
Molecular Weight
506.3 g/mol (as HCl salt)
Half-Life
Not published in humans (preclinical only)
Bioavailability
28% in rats (oral administration)
CAS Number
259667-25-9
Ipamorelin
Molecular Formula
C38H49N9O5
Molecular Weight
711.85 g/mol
Half-Life
2 hours
Bioavailability
High when injected subcutaneously
CAS Number
170851-70-4
Protocols
Dosing
tiers
SM-130686
Ipamorelin
Applications
Best
suited for
SM-130686
Lean Mass Building in Trained Athletes
SM-130686 targets GHS-R to stimulate GH release, which supports anabolic processes. Preclinical studies in rats showed significant increases in fat-free mass and body weight when combined with resistance training principles.
Age-Related GH Decline
As a GHS-R agonist, SM-130686 may help restore physiological GH secretion in adults experiencing age-related decline. The oral route is convenient for long-term administration.
Recovery and Performance
GH supports tissue repair, collagen synthesis, and recovery. May benefit individuals engaged in intensive resistance training or athletic performance work.
Ipamorelin
Clean GH Boost Seekers
If you want the benefits of increased growth hormone without spiking cortisol or other stress hormones, Ipamorelin is uniquely selective. Unlike GHRP-2 or GHRP-6, it won't raise your cortisol levels even at doses 200 times higher than needed for GH release.
Recovery-Focused Athletes
Ipamorelin shines for athletes who want better recovery between training sessions. The GH boost helps repair muscle tissue faster, and since it doesn't mess with other hormones, you can use it consistently without the rollercoaster effects.
Anti-Aging Enthusiasts
Growth hormone naturally declines as we age, contributing to muscle loss, fat gain, and reduced vitality. Ipamorelin offers a gentle way to restore more youthful GH levels without the risks of actual HGH therapy.
Those Recovering from Steroid Use
Research shows Ipamorelin can help counteract the muscle and bone-weakening effects of glucocorticoid medications. If you've been on steroids for medical reasons, this peptide may help you rebuild what you've lost.
Safety Profile
Side
effects
SM-130686
Common
- Appetite stimulation
- Transient water retention
Uncommon
- Joint or muscle aches
- Transient changes in blood glucose
Serious
- Potential carpal tunnel syndrome
- Unknown effects on tumor growth
Ipamorelin
Common
- Mild headache
- Injection site reactions
- Water retention
- Increased appetite
Uncommon
- Tingling in hands or feet
- Joint stiffness
Serious
- Allergic reaction
Research Status
Safety
& evidence
SM-130686
Evidence Level
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
FDA Status
Research compound
Safety Overview
SM-130686 is a research compound that has never been tested in humans. All safety and efficacy data come from animal studies (primarily rats). No human clinical trials have been conducted. Use carries unknown risks. Potential side effects based on GH physiology and limited preclinical work.
Contraindications
- xPregnancy or breastfeeding (no safety data)
- xActive cancer (GH stimulation may be contraindicated)
- xUncontrolled diabetes (may affect glucose metabolism)
- xSevere cardiovascular disease (GH effects on heart not fully characterized)
Ipamorelin
Evidence Level
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
FDA Status
Research compound
Safety Overview
Ipamorelin has shown a favorable safety profile in both animal and human studies. What makes it stand out is its remarkable selectivity—it releases growth hormone without significantly affecting cortisol, ACTH, or other hormones. In clinical trials, it was well-tolerated with mostly mild, temporary side effects. Phase 2 trials in patients recovering from surgery showed no significant safety concerns compared to placebo.
Contraindications
- xActive cancer or history of cancer
- xPregnancy or breastfeeding
- xPituitary disorders or tumors
- xKnown allergy to peptide components
- xChildren and adolescents (growth plates still open)
Decision Guide
Which is
right for you?
Choose SM-130686 if...
- Lean mass building (theoretical)
- Strength development (preclinical evidence)
- Body composition improvement (animal studies)
Choose Ipamorelin if...
- Muscle recovery and growth
- Anti-aging and vitality
- Body composition improvement
- Sleep quality enhancement