IGF-1 LR3 (insulin-like growth factor-1 long arginine 3) is a synthetic analog of human insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). IGF-1 is a naturally occurring hormone primarily produced in the liver in response to growth hormone (GH) stimulation. It plays a crucial role in cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, and survival across various tissues. The "LR3" in IGF-1 LR3 refers to modifications made to the IGF-1 molecule: it has a longer half-life due to the substitution of an arginine for a glutamic acid at position 3 and a 13 amino acid extension at the N-terminus. These modifications result in IGF-1 LR3 having a significantly reduced binding affinity to IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs), which normally sequester IGF-1 in the body. By having a lower affinity for IGFBPs, more free, active IGF-1 LR3 is available to bind to its receptors and exert its biological effects, leading to a more potent and prolonged action compared to native IGF-1. While native IGF-1 is involved in general growth and development, IGF-1 LR3 is primarily investigated for its enhanced anabolic effects, particularly in muscle tissue. It is a research chemical and not approved for human therapeutic use by regulatory bodies like the FDA.
Deep dive
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Known interactions
Compound-pair rule
Caution
These do NOT oppose each other — both push the GH/IGF-1 axis the same direction. Tesamorelin raises your own GH and IGF-1; IGF-1 LR3 adds exogenous IGF-1. Stacking is redundant, risks overstimulation, and the added IGF-1 can suppress natural GH via feedback, partly working against the tesamorelin.
Same-axis redundancy, not synergy — don't stack without a clear reason and provider oversight.
Compound-pair rule
Caution
A GH secretagogue plus exogenous IGF-1 pushes the same GH/IGF-1 axis from two directions; redundant and can overstimulate with feedback effects.
Treat as same-axis stacking; needs provider oversight and a clear rationale.
Compound-pair rule
Caution
Same GH/IGF-1 axis as above; a GHRH analog plus exogenous IGF-1 is redundant.
Same-axis caution; provider oversight.
Category rule: peptide × hormone
Note
Injectable peptides plus hormones can have overlapping or compounding effects that aren't always well characterized.
Track bloodwork with a provider; don't assume combinations are neutral.
Frequently asked
Sources referenced
["DrugBank", "PubChem"]
Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.
Related compounds
Others in the peptide category or studied for the same goals.