IGF-1: effectiveness, dosages, and administration schemes

Author: Yuri Klimishin - an iron enthusiast and veteran of the "chemical" front.
2015-11-02

Important! We do not advocate for the use of steroids and other potent substances. All information is provided so that those who still decide to take them can do so with minimal health risks.

Today we will talk about an interesting drug known as Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1). In this article, we will not delve into what endogenous (natural) IGF-1 is in the human body. I’ll just say that it is precisely this factor that serves as the mediator through which the Growth Hormone exerts most of its beneficial effects. My goal is to convey to you the information about why and how to use exogenous IGF. The full name of the recombinant product is LongR3 IGF–1. This is what we will focus on.

The artificial factor differs from the natural one in that one amino acid in its chain is replaced by another (from arginine to glutamine). Additionally, there is an extra chain of 13 amino acids (the natural form does not have them). Why were these changes made?

Firstly, this modification prevents the synthetic factor from binding to the binding (blocking) protein. Secondly, it extends the half-life of the exogenous substance to 20 hours (in practice, this time is about 1.5 times shorter, a marketing claim from the manufacturer).

It should be noted that the biological potency of the drug is significantly higher than that of the natural factor. In general, along with Growth Hormone and Insulin, IGF-1 is one of the first peptides that bodybuilders have included in their supplement arsenal. Unfortunately (or fortunately), the positive qualities of the factor for sports purposes are STRONGLY overestimated by its manufacturers and dealers. Nevertheless, the proper use of this very interesting substance can help significantly in the challenging task of gaining muscle mass and burning fat. It has undoubtedly earned its honorable place in the chemist's arsenal.

Positive Qualities of IGF-1

1. Moderate anabolic effect, specifically on muscle, without retaining any fluid.
2. In some cases, it induces hyperplasia of muscle cells (but not always).
3. Strong anti-catabolic effect (comparable to that of Insulin).
4. Ability to significantly enhance the anabolic properties of AAS.
5. Ability to greatly increase the fat-burning potential of Growth Hormone.
6. Improvement of overall and strength endurance, along with accelerated recovery. It should be noted that such effects are not always observed.
7. Beneficial effects on ligaments/joints/tendons and the strength of muscle fibers. The drug enhances the synthesis of elastin and collagen, intensifying the absorption of glucosamine and chondroitin.
8. Restoration of CNS cells. Yes, it is the only drug capable of this.
9. Reduces LDL levels and strengthens the cardiovascular system. These qualities will be extremely beneficial for aging athletes whose engines have worn out over time, although young athletes can also benefit.

Side Effects

1. The ability to provoke accelerated development of malignant neoplasms. This affects those who are genetically predisposed to oncological diseases and those who smoke.
2. Excessive use of IGF-1 can lead to dysfunction of the pancreas and, as a result, the development of type 1 diabetes (insulin-dependent).
3. The factor significantly inhibits the penetration of glucose through cell membranes. This is particularly true for working (sporting) dosages. Consequently, this can result in episodes of weakness, nausea, drowsiness, and feelings of fatigue. All this is due to the high sugar content in the blood and, in some cases, is resolved with the help of Insulin.
4. It can suppress the production of endogenous Growth Hormone for several hours. To avoid issues on this front, it is advisable not to inject the Factor right before bedtime.

Dosing and Application Schemes

First, it is important to discuss the working dose of the Factor. Experiments in this area began quite a while ago, right after professional athletes in bodybuilding got wind of this drug. Most specialists agree that the optimal dosage range is about 80-120 mcg per day. Less than that is not effective, and more can lead to side effects. It may be most reasonable to settle on a dose of 100 mcg per day. Moreover, one vial of the product typically contains exactly that amount.

The daily dose is divided into three parts and administered in the morning upon waking (the largest dose), one hour before training, and one hour after it. The product should be injected systemically (in a fatty fold on the abdomen). Injecting the Factor locally makes no sense (for this purpose, there is one of its variants - Mechanical Growth Factor (MFR)).

Given the rapid downregulation of receptors for this substance in the body, it should only be administered on training days (3-4 times a week). The course duration should be a maximum of 4 weeks, with a break of equal length. With daily use, a noticeable reduction in the number of receptors occurs after just 8-10 days.

The administration protocol for the Factor remains unchanged regardless of the goals of the course. In powder form, the product remains stable for three years when stored at temperatures between -20 to +37 degrees Celsius. The prepared solution should not be stored for more than a day at a temperature not exceeding +8 degrees.

Before discussing the combination of the Factor with other drugs, I want to highlight an important point. IGF-1 is exclusively a sporadic agent when it comes to gaining muscle mass or burning fat. That is to say, it can be an excellent assistant as a complement to a course. Using it alone for growth or cutting is COMPLETELY USELESS AND UNJUSTIFIED.

Combination of IGF-1 with Other Products for Mass

First, we need AAS that effectively stabilize the androgen receptor. Such include:

• Testosterone (mandatory for use),
• Nandrolone,
• Trenbolone,
• Boldenone,
• Methenolone.

As mentioned above, issues with high blood glucose levels can be managed with good old Insulin. It will also significantly enhance the effects of both AAS and the Factor. Moreover, it will extend the half-life of the Factor and occupy its receptors, which the Factor also binds to. Therefore, in the presence of Insulin, the entire potential of the Factor will be directed toward muscle growth.

Insulin should be used on the same days as the Factor, with three injections (8-10 IU per injection) given 30 minutes before the Factor. Naturally, one must remember that Insulin is quite a dangerous substance. In this combination, it becomes doubly dangerous. Also, the presence of Insulin WILL undoubtedly lead to an increase in body fat during the cycle. So, it might be wise to refrain from using this hormone. The choice is yours.

There is often information about the combined use of GH and the Factor during bulk phases. This should be avoided. The thing is, GH triggers active glycogen release from the liver, while the Factor, as we recall, slows glucose penetration into the cells. With a diet rich in carbohydrates (typical for bulking), this combination can (and will, make no mistake) lead to all the pitfalls associated with excess sugar in the blood, and even hyperglycemia (in some cases).

Combination of IGF-1 with Other Products for Cutting

Regarding the MANDATORY presence of Testosterone and AAS (optional), I think everyone has understood by now. The ideal partner for the Factor during this period will be Growth Hormone. By itself, the Factor is not a fat burner, but it can tremendously enhance the activity of GH. Plus, it protects muscle during periods of semi-starvation and intensive workouts. The combination of GH and the Factor, against a backdrop of a low-carb diet, is very effective. There are rumors that most top professionals rely on this combination during breaks between competitions to maintain optimal form.

From personal experience, it is well known that many amateurs use thyroid hormones during cutting. Cheap and effective. One downside—along with fat, Triiodothyronine/Tyroxine effectively destroy muscle tissue. The combination of Testosterone/T3 or T4/IGF-1 will allow you to not only confidently eliminate unwanted fat but also help you navigate this challenging path with minimal muscle loss.

The Bridge Between Cycles

It's simple. We add IGF-1 to our usual (for this period) amount of AAS and don’t worry about reversing back. No loss of muscle tissue.

It must be acknowledged that the Factor has not met all the expectations originally placed on it. The active use of GH and Insulin and the rare recourse to IGF-1 serve as proof of this. Nevertheless, a WELL-THOUGHT-OUT approach to this assistant WILL leave pleasant impressions. Moreover, we do not live by sports alone. The regenerative abilities regarding the cardiovascular system, nervous system, musculoskeletal system, and muscular corset are also of great value, wouldn't you agree?

By the way, if you decide to treat the indicated areas of your body with the Factor, a dose of 50 mcg every other day will suffice. Overall, if you have the opportunity and the desire, I advise you to try it. I believe you won't be disappointed. If only it weren't for the exorbitant prices of quality products in this class. That's all. Stay healthy.