Last Updated February 9, 2024

 February 9, 2024

Looking for the ideal IGF-1 LR3 dosage? Find out what the research shows below.

IGF-1 LR3 is a significantly more potent derivative of native IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor-1). It was designed to provide many of the same benefits as IGF-1 itself, including: 

  • Enhanced muscle recovery and preservation 
  • Fat-burning and promotion of lean body mass 
  • Anti-aging action 

The chemical structure of IGF-1 LR3 gives it a prolonged half-life, leading researchers to question the appropriate IGF-1 LR3 dosage for their next study. 

In this informative guide, we include an IGF-1 LR3 dosage calculator and explore the various benefits and side effects that researchers may expect when administering IGF-1 LR3 to subjects. 

At the end, we reveal our top pick of an online vendor that sells pure IGF-1 LR3.

Buy IGF-1 LR3 from our top-rated vendor...

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IGF-1 LR3 Dosage Chart | Quick Breakdown

Timeframe Daily IGF-1 LR3 Dosage for Research
Weeks #1-6 50-100mcg (consider initiating at lower dose to assess tolerance)
Week #7-12 Washout
Weeks #13-18 50-100mcg
Weeks #19-24 Washout

What is IGF-1 LR3?

IGF-1 LR3 (insulin-like growth factor-1 long arginine 3) is a synthetically modified derivative of insulin-like growth factor-1, which is produced in the liver in response to growth hormone endocrine stimulus.

More specifically, IGF-1 LR3 is an 83 amino acid analog of IGF-1 comprising the complete human IGF-1 sequence with the substitution of an Arg (R) for the Glu(E) at position three, and a 13 amino acid extension peptide at the N terminus from methionyl porcine Growth Hormone [1].

IGF-1 LR3 is more potent than regular IGF-1 because of the decreased binding of Long R3 IGF-1 to IGF binding proteins, allowing it to remain active up to 120 times longer compared to native IGF-1.

This results in improved half-life and increased activity due to extended bioavailability in the body. IGF-1 LR3 is thought to impair myostatin and thereby improve cell division and growth, enhance fat metabolism, and facilitate muscle repair and hypertrophy.

Clinically, IGF-1 and derivatives are used to treat patients who suffer from muscle wasting due to conditions like HIV, as well as patients with hormonal disorders [2].


igf-1 lr3 dosage


IGF-1 LR3 Benefits

Below, we present researchers with an overview of select benefits of IGF-1 LR3.

IGF-1 LR3 promotes protein synthesis and muscle hypertrophy

IGF-1 LR3 induces a high rate of cell proliferation (hyperplasia) and division due to remaining in the bloodstream for much longer than regular IGF-1, with the effect of increasing muscle cells. An additional consideration is that the IGF-3/IGF-1 ratio may be an important factor determining the level of GH stimulation [3].

IGF-1 LR3 also acts as a myostatin inhibitor, which helps to prevent muscle breakdown and preserve strength in subjects who may be suffering muscle wasting. The peptide is known to activate a protein called MyoD, which stimulates muscle hypertrophy [4, 5, 6].

IGF-1 LR3 accelerates muscle healing and regeneration

Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) appears to be of particular importance for the muscle regeneration process. In a mouse model, direct injections of human recombinant IGF-1 at two, five, and seven days after injury enhanced muscle healing in lacerated, contused, and strain-injured muscles [7].

In addition, data from human trials also indicates that the direct injection of human recombinant growth factor proteins, including IGF-1, can improve muscle performance after a strain injury at 15 days after injury.

The researchers also noted improvements in the tetanic and fast twitch strengths in the treated muscle. Furthermore, IGF-1 was also shown to significantly enhance the number and diameter of regenerating myofibers in the treated site [8].

Age-related skeletal muscle mass wasting (also known as sarcopenia) tends to become an issue in elderly individuals, since the body’s ability to regenerate declines with age. Studies have shown that elderly subjects treated with IGF-1 are better able to better preserve lean muscle mass [7, 8, 9].

IGF-1 LR3 stabilizes blood glucose

The two substances in the human body responsible for maintaining stable blood sugar levels are insulin and IGF-1. Studies have found that insulin-like growth factor-1 can cause blood sugar levels to decrease, as well as improve insulin sensitivity and blood lipids in type 2 diabetic patients. These effects of IGF-1 LR3 ultimately lead to a reduced insulin requirement by up to 10% in order to maintain blood sugar levels [10, 11, 12].

IGF-1 LR3 enhances bone health and formation

Data from clinical trials shows that IGF-1 LR3 stimulates bone formation via direct effect on osteoblasts, as well as having significant anabolic activity and bone protective effects.

Researchers have linked higher IGF-1 levels to greater bone mineral density in older female subjects. In addition, researchers noted that treatment with GH and IGF-1 increases bone mineral density (BMD) in adults, and helps to optimize peak bone acquisition in patients, while also reducing risk of fracture due to GH deficiency [13].

Growth hormone and IGF-1 are also fundamental in skeletal growth during puberty, namely given that IGF-1 causes increased uptake of amino acids and nutrients, in particular collagen.

IGF-1 is so crucial to human development that studies performed on pubertal children found that high levels of serum IGF-1 were directly correlated to higher bone mineral acquisition later on in life [14, 15].


IGF-1 LR3 Side Effects

While IGF-1 LR3 administration is considered to be relatively safe at proper dosages, excessive levels of IGF-1 in the body can cause side effects, mainly due to the impact on insulin and glucose levels.
Possible side effects of IGF-1 LR3 administration can include [1, 14, 15]:

  • Hyperandrogenism
  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Impaired glucose metabolism and hypoglycemia
  • Fatigue
  • Changes in sexual function
  • Soft tissue swelling

Researchers should thoroughly check glucose, cholesterol, and bone density levels before administering IGF-1 LR3 to test subjects.

One of the more serious potential side effects of prolonged IGF-1 LR3 administration is acromegalic cardiomyopathy (enlargement and weakening of the heart). If IGF-1 LR3 levels remain higher than normal for an extended period of time, issues with cardiac rhythm and heart valves may arise. This is due to saturation of the IGF-1R receptors, resulting in the remaining IGF-1 circulating in the blood attaching to bone and gastrointestinal tissue [1, 16].

In addition, saturation of receptors and continued use of the peptide may cause the onset of abdominal and bone growth. As a result, the peptide may induce acromegaly, causing irreversible changes to the physical structure of the body, most notably in the face [17].


IGF-1 LR3 Dosage Calculator and Guide

In this section, researchers can obtain an in-depth understanding of how IGF-1 LR3 may be dosed and what methods can be used to administer this peptide to test subjects.

IGF-1 LR3 Administration Notes

Researchers should note that studies conducted specifically on IGF-1 LR3 are limited. In fact, there are no human trials with the peptide and only a few laboratory animal studies that involve continuous infusion.

IGF-1 LR3 is typically available in 1,000mcg (1mg) vials.

To maximize performance-enhancing effects in test subjects, researchers may prefer to administer IGF-1 LR3 to test subjects only on days when exercise is induced. Adequate protein must then be ingested to induce optimal muscle hypertrophy in test subjects.

Notably, a higher IGF-1 LR3 dosage does not necessarily result in more pronounced effects. For example, a three-year study was conducted on subjects between the ages of three and sixteen suffering from GH insensitivity. Results showed that a twice daily IGF-1 dose of 120mcg/kg produced almost identical effects as that of a twice daily 80mcg/kg dose [18].

As for duration, researchers have found no observable adverse effects in test subjects being administered IGF-1 for periods between two to twelve weeks [8, 19].

However, due to the fact that data regarding long-term application of IGF-1 LR3 is limited, IGF-1 LR3 research study durations tend to last between four to six weeks, followed by an equivalent duration of rest.

In addition, the outcome of IGF-1 LR3 administration on test subjects depends on factors like age, metabolism, exercise regimen, current overall health condition, and diet.

Sample IGF-1 LR3 Dosage Protocol

For reference purposes, here is a sample IGF-1 LR3 protocol that researchers may administer to subjects to observe cell proliferation and muscular hypertrophy:

  • Daily Dosage: 50-100mcg.
  • Frequency: Administer subcutaneous injection once-daily for length of study.
  • Study Duration: Four to six weeks.
  • Repeat Cycle: Each IGF-1 LR3 course should be followed by an equivalent pause.
  • Notes: Monitor subject’s glucose levels to prevent hypoglycemia. Do not administer a dose less than two hours before bedtime due to a risk of suppressing natural growth hormone synthesis. A six-week trial at 100mcg/daily will require four IGF-1 LR3 1mg vials.

igf-1 lr3 dosage


Where to Buy IGF-1-LR3 Online? | 2024 Edition

While IGF-1 LR3 is readily available to qualified researchers online, not all peptide vendors are created equally.

For this reason, our team has made small test orders from various vendors to determine which offer the highest quality peptides, fastest shipping times, and friendliest service.

Here is our recommendation:

PureRawz

We have concluded that PureRawz is the best source of research-grade IGF-1 LR3. They sell 99% pure IGF-1 LR3 to researchers worldwide and have a leading reputation within the industry.

Here’s why they thrive:

  • Third-party testing: PureRawz gets each batch of IGF-1 LR3 peptide tested by a third-party lab. This ensures that researchers are purchasing legitimate and research-grade peptides.
  • Fair prices: The vendor offers Receptor Grade IGF-1 LR3 1mg for a discounted price of $245.48, with kits available as well.
  • Fast shipping: Shipping is free on all U.S. orders above $100, and domestic orders typically arrive within a week.
  • Friendly service: Researchers can email a dedicated support team with any peptide or order-related questions and expect a response within 24 hours.

Buy IGF-1 LR3 from our top-rated vendor...


Bacteriostatic Water and IGF-1 LR3

While it’s great t0 source IGF-1 LR3 from a reputable vendor, acquiring the supplies needed for proper handling in research is also important.

When reconstituting, administering, and storing peptides, researchers will use several essential items, including bacteriostatic water, sterile vials, and more.


IGF-1 LR3 Dosing | Verdict

We have put together this informative guide for researchers interested in calculating the proper IGF-1 LR3 dosage for their next study.

Despite occasional incidents of minor adverse side effects being noted in clinical trials, IGF-1 LR3 is generally well-tolerated, and comes with a number of performance-enhancing and regenerative benefits.

One of the main advantages this compound has over native IGF-1 is that it actively circulates in the body for a longer period of time and by some measures is up to ten times as potent.

Researchers planning to investigate the benefits of IGF-1 LR3 should visit our top-rated vendor to place an order.


References

  1. Tomas, F. M., Lemmey, A. B., Read, L. C., & Ballard, F. J. (1996). Superior potency of infused IGF-I analogues which bind poorly to IGF-binding proteins is maintained when administered by injection, Journal of Endocrinology, 150(1), 77-84. Retrieved Jul 7, 2022, from https://joe.bioscientifica.com/view/journals/joe/150/1/joe_150_1_010.xml
  2. Laron Z. The essential role of IGF-I: lessons from the long-term study and treatment of children and adults with Laron syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1999;84(12):4397-4404. doi:10.1210/jcem.84.12.6255
  3. Lambrecht N. IGF-1/IGFBP-3 Serum Ratio as a Robust Measure to Determine GH Deficiency and Guide Human Recombinant GH Therapy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2023 Mar 10;108(4):e54-e55. doi: 10.1210/clinem/dgac687. PMID: 36454697.
  4. Li N, Yang Q, Walker RG, Thompson TB, Du M, Rodgers BD. Myostatin Attenuation In Vivo Reduces Adiposity, but Activates Adipogenesis. Endocrinology. 2016;157(1):282-291. doi:10.1210/en.2015-1546
  5. Engert JC, Berglund EB, Rosenthal N. Proliferation precedes differentiation in IGF-I-stimulated myogenesis. J Cell Biol. 1996;135(2):431-440.
  6. Schiaffino S, Mammucari C. Regulation of skeletal muscle growth by the IGF1-Akt/PKB pathway: insights from genetic models. Skelet Muscle. 2011;1(1):4. Published 2011 Jan 24. doi:10.1186/2044-5040-1-4
  7. Laumonier, Thomas & Menetrey, Jacques. (2016). Muscle injuries and strategies for improving their repair. Journal of Experimental Orthopaedics. 3. 10.1186/s40634-016-0051-7.
  8. Kasemkijwattana C, Menetrey J, Bosch P, Somogyi G, Moreland MS, Fu FH, Buranapanitkit B, Watkins SS, Huard J. Use of growth factors to improve muscle healing after strain injury. Clin Orthop. 2000;370:272–285.
  9. Cappola AR, Bandeen-Roche K, Wand GS, Volpato S, Fried LP. Association of IGF-I levels with muscle strength and mobility in older women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2001;86(9):4139-4146. doi:10.1210/jcem.86.9.7868
  10. Aguirre GA, Rodriguez J, de la Garza RG, et al. Insulin-like growth factor-1 deficiency and metabolic syndrome. J Transl Med. 2016;14:3.
  11. Mohamed-Ali V, Pinkney J. Therapeutic potential of insulin-like growth factor-1 in patients with diabetes mellitus. Treat Endocrinol 2002;1:399-410.
  12. Junnila RK, List EO, Berryman DE, Murrey JW, Kopchick JJ. The GH/IGF-1-LR3 axis in ageing and longevity. Nat Rev Endocrinol. 2013;9(6):366-376. doi:10.1038/nrendo.2013.67
  13. Locatelli, V., & Bianchi, V. E. (2014, July 23). Effect of GH/IGF-1 on bone metabolism and osteoporsosis. International Journal of Endocrinology. Retrieved July 14, 2022, from https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ije/2014/235060/
  14. Tritos, N. A., & Klibanski, A. (2016, January 6). Effects of growth hormone on Bone. Progress in Molecular Biology and Translational Science. Retrieved July 14, 2022, from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1877117315002100
  15. Kouda, K., Iki, M., Ohara, K. et al. Associations between serum levels of insulin-like growth factor-I and bone mineral acquisition in pubertal children: a 3-year follow-up study in Hamamatsu, Japan. J Physiol Anthropol 38, 16 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40101-019-0210-5
  16. Higashi Y, Pandey A, Goodwin B, Delafontaine P. Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Regulates Glutathione Peroxidase Expression and Activity in Vascular Endothelial Cells: Implications for Atheroprotective Actions of Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1. Biochim Biophys Acta. 2013;1832:391–399.
  17. Subbarayan SK, Fleseriu M, Gordon MB, et al. Serum IGF-1 in the diagnosis of acromegaly and the profile of patients with elevated IGF-1 but normal glucose-suppressed growth hormone. Endocr Pract. 2012;18(6):817-825. doi:10.4158/EP11324.OR
  18. Guevara-Aguirre J, Rosenbloom AL, Guevara-Aguirre M, Saavedra J, Procel P. Recommended IGF-I dosage causes greater fat accumulation and osseous maturation than lower dosage and may compromise long-term growth effects. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2013;98(2):839-845. doi:10.1210/jc.2012-3704
  19. Laron Z. Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1): a growth hormone. Mol Pathol. 2001 Oct;54(5):311-6. doi: 10.1136/mp.54.5.311. PMID: 11577173; PMCID: PMC1187088.

Scientifically Fact Checked by:

David Warmflash, M.D.

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