Overview
IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3 Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1) is a potent recombinant peptide hormone that mimics and enhances the biological effects of endogenous IGF-1, a key mediator of growth hormone (GH) action. IGF-1 LR3 has been modified to extend its half-life and increase its anabolic potency, making it a popular compound in muscle growth, tissue repair, anti-aging, and recovery protocols. Its powerful influence on cell proliferation, regeneration, and protein synthesis makes it a top choice among bodybuilders, biohackers, and regenerative medicine clinics.
๐ Category
Growth Factor Analog for Muscle Growth, Repair, and Regeneration
๐ฌ Molecular Profile
Name: IGF-1 LR3 (Long Arg3 Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1)
Molecular Formula: CโโโHโโโ NโโโOโโโ Sโ
Molecular Weight: ~9,111 Da
Structure: 83 amino acid analog of IGF-1, with:
An arginine substitution at position 3 (Arg3)
A 13-amino-acid extension at the N-terminus for longer activity
Half-Life: ~20โ30 hours (compared to ~20 minutes for native IGF-1)
๐ What Is IGF-1 LR3?
Type: Synthetic analog of insulin-like growth factor 1
Function: Stimulates muscle growth, tissue repair, nerve regeneration, and cellular proliferation
Use: Applied in performance enhancement, injury recovery, muscle wasting conditions, and anti-aging protocols
๐งช Mechanism of Action
IGF-1 LR3 operates downstream of growth hormone (GH) and is responsible for many of GHโs anabolic and regenerative effects:
Binds to IGF-1 receptors โ Triggers cell growth, protein synthesis, and glucose uptake
Enhances muscle satellite cell activity โ Promotes hypertrophy and muscle repair
Stimulates nerve regeneration and synapse formation
Inhibits protein breakdown โ Anti-catabolic properties during calorie restriction or injury
Does NOT bind to IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs) โ Unlike native IGF-1, LR3 remains free and biologically active longer
๐ฉบ Most Common Uses
โ๏ธ Potential Benefits
Muscle & Strength
Accelerates hypertrophy and muscle cell proliferation
Increases strength and endurance when combined with training
Supports muscle retention during calorie deficits or injury
Recovery & Repair
Speeds up tissue regeneration in tendons, cartilage, nerves, and skin
Enhances connective tissue strength and resilience
May improve healing after surgery, trauma, or overuse
Metabolic & Longevity
Enhances glucose uptake and insulin sensitivity
Improves collagen production, bone density, and organ repair
Plays a role in anti-aging and mitochondrial health
๐ Administration & Dosage
Delivery Forms
Injectable โ subcutaneous or intramuscular
Site-specific or systemic use depending on goal
Typical Research Dosages
๐ Scientific Research
Muscle Anabolism: Animal studies show rapid increase in muscle cell count and growth
Nerve Regeneration: Promotes axon repair in peripheral nerve injury models
Tendon & Cartilage: Speeds up healing and ECM remodeling post-injury
IGFBP Independence: LR3โs long half-life and free bioactivity make it 30โ50x more potent than native IGF-1
Human Case Reports: Enhanced recovery in post-surgical patients, improved strength, and reduced recovery time
โ ๏ธ Safety & Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Local injection site irritation
Hypoglycemia (mild, due to insulin-like activity)
Water retention
Headache or fatigue (rare)
Risks with High Doses or Misuse
Possible organ growth or jaw/hand/foot enlargement at abusive levels
Cancer risk in those with pre-existing neoplasms due to cell growth stimulation
Suppression of natural IGF-1 or GH axis if overused
Glucose levels should be monitored, especially in diabetics or insulin-sensitive individuals.
๐ Legal & Regulatory Status
FDA Status: Not approved for human therapeutic use
Classification: Research compound
Legal Status: Legal for research purposes; commonly compounded in performance clinics
WADA Status: Banned in competitive sports due to performance-enhancing effects
โ FAQ
Is IGF-1 LR3 the same as GH?
No โ IGF-1 LR3 is downstream of GH, but works faster and more directly on tissue growth and regeneration.
Can I stack IGF-1 LR3 with other peptides?
Yes โ often combined with BPC-157, TB-500, CJC-1295, or MK-677 for muscle, recovery, and longevity protocols.
Is it safe long-term?
Short cycles under professional supervision are generally safe. Long-term use may require cycling and glucose monitoring.
When will I see results?
Typically within 7โ10 days for enhanced recovery; 2โ4 weeks for muscle growth or visible changes.
๐ Summary
IGF-1 LR3 is a powerful growth factor analog that drives muscle growth, tissue repair, and cellular regeneration. With extended activity and potent anabolic effects, it is widely used in athletic recovery, performance enhancement, and longevity medicine. While highly effective, its use must be carefully monitored due to its influence on cell proliferation, insulin sensitivity, and systemic growth signals.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational use only and does not constitute medical advice.
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