IGF-1 DES
A profile on the ultra-short acting, highly potent variant of IGF-1 used for immediate localized muscle growth.
IGF-1 DES
IGF-1 DES(1-3) is a truncated version of Insulin-like Growth Factor 1. It has the first three amino acids cleaved off.
This structural change makes it unable to bind to IGF Binding Proteins (IGFBPs). Since IGFBPs are what "neutralize" IGF-1 in the blood, being unable to bind to them makes DES 10x more potent than regular IGF-1, but also gives it an incredibly short half-life.
Quick Specs
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Active Compound | IGF-1 DES(1-3) |
| Half-Life | ~20 Minutes |
| Mechanism | Local IGF-1 Agonist |
| Administration | Intramuscular (IM) into target muscle |
Mechanism of Action
IGF-1 DES binds to receptors that have been deformed by lactic acid. This makes it uniquely effective during or immediately after a workout, when the muscle environment is acidic.
It stimulates hyperplasia (cell splitting) and nutrient uptake specifically in the muscle it is injected into.
Pharmacokinetics & Dosing
Dosing Protocol
- Dosage: 50mcg - 100mcg (Total).
- Split bilaterally: e.g., 50mcg in left bicep, 50mcg in right bicep.
- Frequency: Pre-Workout or Intra-Workout.
- Frequency Limit: Use only on lagging body part days (e.g., 2-3x per week). Using it daily leads to rapid receptor downregulation.
Site Enhancement
If you want bigger calves, you inject it into the calves. If you want bigger delts, you inject it into the delts. It does not travel well; the effect is highly localized.
Primary Effects
1. The Pump
Produces painful, skin-stretching pumps due to rapid glycogen and water uptake into the muscle cell.
2. Site Growth
One of the few peptides that legitimately works for "spot growth."
Side Effects & Harm Reduction
Hypoglycemia Risk:
Insulin Shock: IGF-1 DES is potent enough to act like insulin. It can cause rapid hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Always consume carbohydrates (Shake/Gatorade) immediately before or after injection. Shaking, sweating, and confusion are signs you need sugar NOW.
1. Intestinal Growth?
Less risk than LR3 (systemic), but high doses can still go systemic and affect gut tissues.
Tracking IGF-1 DES
Using the Anabolic Tracker app:
- Inventory: Add IGF-1 DES.
- Scheduling: Pre-Workout.
- Metrics: Track Muscle Measurements for the specific site being treated.
Disclaimer:
This guide is for informational purposes only. IGF-1 DES is a research chemical.