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GH Secretagogues Growth Factors Peptide Hormones Not approved

IGF-1 LR3

Also known as: IGF-1 Long R3, Long R3 IGF-1, Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Long R3

IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3) is a synthetic analog of human insulin-like growth factor type 1 (IGF-1). It is characterized by a substitution of arginine for glutamine at position 3 (R3) and a 13-amino acid extension at the N-terminus (Long). These modifications confer a significantly longer half-life (approximately 20-30 hours) compared to natural IGF-1 (half-life of 10-20 minutes), as it reduces affinity for IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs). This allows for greater bioavailability and more sustained effects. It is primarily used in research and bodybuilding for its potent anabolic effects, including increased muscle mass, improved recovery, and reduced body fat. It is not approved by regulatory agencies such as the FDA or EMA for human medical use.

Mechanism of action

IGF-1 LR3 exerts its effects primarily through activation of the IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R), a tyrosine kinase receptor.

  • Receptor binding: It binds with high affinity to IGF-1R, but with low affinity to IGFBPs, prolonging its action.
  • Signaling pathway activation: Binding to IGF-1R activates the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways.
  • Anabolic effects: The PI3K/Akt pathway promotes muscle protein synthesis, hypertrophy, and inhibition of muscle atrophy.
  • Metabolic effects: It stimulates glucose and amino acid uptake into cells, promoting an anabolic state.
  • Differences from natural IGF-1: Its low binding to IGFBPs allows for a higher free and active concentration in tissues.

Uses & indications

  • Scientific research: Study of IGF-1 signaling, cell growth, muscle metabolism, and aging.
  • Bodybuilding and sports performance: Unapproved use to increase lean muscle mass, improve post-workout recovery, and reduce body fat.
  • Therapeutic potential (under research): Possible use in treating muscle atrophy, cachexia, and growth disorders, though not approved.

Effects

Reported effects of IGF-1 LR3 include a significant increase in lean muscle mass, improved protein synthesis, reduction in body fat, enhanced muscle recovery, and possible increase in bone density. It may also improve insulin sensitivity in some contexts, although its use can cause hypoglycemia. The effects are more pronounced than with natural IGF-1 due to its longer half-life and bioavailability.

Considerations & contraindications

IGF-1 LR3 is not approved for human use and its long-term safety profile is unknown. Potential adverse effects include hypoglycemia (especially at high doses), joint pain, edema, acromegaly (with prolonged use), tumor growth (due to its mitogenic effect), and hormonal imbalances. It is contraindicated in individuals with active cancer, uncontrolled diabetes, or heart disease. Its use in sports is banned by most anti-doping agencies. Extreme caution is advised, and it should only be used under medical supervision in research settings.

Regulatory approval

IGF-1 LR3 is not approved by the FDA (USA), EMA (Europe), or any other major regulatory agency for human medical use. It is only marketed for in vitro and in vivo research purposes in laboratories. Its use in humans is illegal in most countries without research authorization.

Dosage

There is no approved standard dosage. In research settings, typical animal doses vary. In bodybuilding contexts, reported doses range from 20-80 mcg per day, administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly, often in cycles of 4-8 weeks. However, there is no clinical evidence supporting these doses and their use is risky.

Storage

Lyophilized IGF-1 LR3 should be stored at -20°C (freezer) in a dry, dark place. Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water or sterile saline, it should be refrigerated at 2-8°C and used within 1-2 weeks. Avoid freezing after reconstitution and protect from light.
Technical data
Regulatory status Not approved
Molecular weight 9111.6 Da
Half-life ~20-30 horas
Administration routes Subcutánea, intramuscular
Reconstitution ← Back to catalog

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