IGF-DES calculator
A truncated, fast-acting form of IGF-1 with reduced binding-protein interference. A research compound with no approved use and hypoglycemia risk.
Also known as: IGF-1 DES, Des(1-3) IGF-1
FDA status — not an approved drug Not FDA-approved for any use. IGF-DES is a research compound. Pharmaceutical IGF-1 (mecasermin) is a different, approved product for severe growth failure.
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What IGF-DES is
IGF-DES is a truncated analog of insulin-like growth factor-1, missing its first three amino acids. This makes it more potent at the receptor and less bound by binding proteins, but short-acting. It is discussed for localized muscle effects. It is a research compound with no approved use.
Research depth: 1/5 Preclinical data only; no human trials of the DES analog. Human trials: None — preclinical only. This measures how much has been studied — counting animal and laboratory work — not whether it works for you.
How IGF-DES works
It activates the IGF-1 receptor more potently than natural IGF-1 because the truncation reduces interference from binding proteins. Its short half-life means effects are brief and more localized to the injection area. Like all IGF-1 analogs it can drive glucose into cells and cause hypoglycemia.
IGF-DES side effects
Commonly reported
- Hypoglycemia — shakiness, sweating, confusion
- Injection-site reactions
- Localized growth effects discussed anecdotally
Serious — seek medical care
- Hypoglycemia can be severe, especially without food
- A potent growth factor — theoretical concern with any existing or undiagnosed cancer
- Prohibited in sport by WADA
This list is not exhaustive. Report anything unexpected to the clinician who prescribed it. If you have severe abdominal pain, trouble breathing, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek care the same day. See also our guide to peptide side effects by class.
A worked example
A 1 mg vial reconstituted with 2 mL of bacteriostatic water gives 0.5 mg/mL. A 50 mcg dose is then 0.1 mL — about 10 units on a 100-unit insulin syringe, giving roughly 20 doses per vial before accounting for residual volume left in the vial and syringe.
Prefer paper? Download the printable IGF-DES dosing chart (PDF) — every vial size and water volume in syringe units, with the same review byline as this page. All charts →
Commonly cited dose range
Figures circulating for IGF-DES run from 20 mcg to 100 mcg. Amounts discussed are in the tens of micrograms — much smaller than most peptides. Figures shown are community reference points. There is no established or approved dose, and the hypoglycemia risk is real.
Read this as reference information, not instruction. These numbers describe what is commonly discussed, not what is right for any individual. Dose, frequency, and whether to use IGF-DES at all are decisions for a licensed clinician who knows your history.
Common questions
How is IGF-DES different from IGF-1 LR3?
Both are modified IGF-1 analogs. IGF-DES is truncated (missing the first three amino acids), making it short-acting and more potent at the receptor, while LR3 is long-acting. DES is discussed for localized, pre-workout use; neither is approved.
What's the main risk of IGF-DES?
Hypoglycemia, as with all IGF-1 analogs, plus the theoretical cancer concern from a potent growth factor. It is prohibited in sport by WADA.