Source comparison
[MOTS-C Research Compounds]: Protocol Comparison
MOTS-C Mitochondrial gene expression, AMPK activation, nuclear translocation Not required. Continuous protocols maintain efficacy 12–16 weeks 5–15 mg subcutaneous 3–5×/week, continuous or with optional 2–4 week washout every 12–16 weeks Washout used to assess
This comparison does not assign a generated winner or score.
- MOTS-C
- Mitochondrial gene expression, AMPK activation, nuclear translocation
- Not required. Continuous protocols maintain efficacy 12–16 weeks
- 5–15 mg subcutaneous 3–5×/week, continuous or with optional 2–4 week washout every 12–16 weeks
- Washout used to assess durability of effect, not to restore sensitivity
- Strongest evidence supports continuous dosing; cycling is optional and research-question-dependent
- GHRP-2
- Ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) agonist
- Required. Receptor desensitization occurs after 8–12 weeks
- 100–300 mcg 2–3×/day for 8–12 weeks, then 4–8 weeks off
- Receptor downregulation reduces GH pulse amplitude; off-period restores receptor density
- Cycling is non-negotiable. Continuous use beyond 12 weeks yields diminishing returns
- Ipamorelin
- Selective ghrelin receptor agonist
- Required. Similar desensitization timeline to GHRP-2
- 200–300 mcg 2–3×/day for 8–12 weeks, then 4–6 weeks off
- GHS-R1a internalization and reduced receptor expression
- Cycling restores efficacy; skipping washout results in progressively weaker GH response
- CJC-1295 (DAC)
- GHRH analog with extended half-life via drug affinity complex
- Debated. Some evidence of blunted GH response after 12+ weeks
- 1–2 mg once or twice weekly, continuous or with 8-week breaks
- Possible GHRH receptor desensitization; pituitary feedback mechanisms may reduce output over time
- Evidence is mixed; conservative approach cycles every 12 weeks
- Hexarelin
- Potent ghrelin receptor agonist
- Strictly required. Rapid desensitization within 4–6 weeks
- 100–200 mcg 2×/day for 4–6 weeks, then minimum 4 weeks off
- Fastest desensitization of all GH secretagogues; cortisol and prolactin elevation also limits duration
- Shortest tolerable cycle window; not suitable for extended continuous use