IGF-DES

IGF-1 DES (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Des[1-3]) is a highly potent, fast-acting version of IGF-1. It has been modified to remove the first three amino acids, which prevents it from binding to inhibitory proteins in the blood.

Because of this, it has a incredibly short half-life (about 20–30 minutes) but a much higher affinity for the IGF receptors in the muscle. In research, it is used almost exclusively as a site-specific growth and recovery tool.
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1. Reconstitution & Dosage
IGF-DES typically comes in 1mg (1,000mcg) vials. Because the dose is small and the peptide is fragile, the choice of diluent matters.

• Reconstitution: * Acetic Acid (0.6%): Best for long-term stability (up to 30 days).
o Bacteriostatic Water: Only if the vial will be used within 2–3 days, as it degrades very quickly in Bac Water.
• Ratio: Add 1ml of diluent to a 1mg vial.

• Syringe Measurement (U-100 Insulin Syringe):
o 2.5 units (0.025ml) = 25mcg (Standard starting dose)
o 5 units (0.05ml) = 50mcg (Standard research dose)
o 10 units (0.10ml) = 100mcg (Advanced/Max dose)
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2. The Cycle (The "Intra-Workout" Protocol)
Because of its short half-life, timing is the most critical factor with IGF-DES.

Parameter Recommendation
Cycle Length 4 Weeks ON / 4 Weeks OFF
Frequency Training Days Only (usually 4–5 days/week)
Timing Pre-Workout (15 mins before) or Intra-Workout

The "Pump" Warning: Injecting IGF-DES before training a specific muscle group will result in an extreme, sometimes painful "pump" as it triggers rapid nutrient uptake and cellular expansion in that localized area.
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3. Administration: Site-Specific
Unlike other peptides, IGF-DES is often used Bilateral Intramuscular (IM).
• If you are training chest, researchers split the dose (e.g., 25mcg in the left pec, 25mcg in the right pec).
• Use a 29g–31g insulin syringe to minimize scar tissue.
• It can be used SubQ, but the localized growth effects are significantly diminished.
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4. Storage & Stability
• Refrigeration: Absolute requirement.
• Light: Keep it in the dark; UV light destroys the peptide bonds.
• Stability: If mixed with Acetic Acid, it stays stable for 4 weeks. If mixed with Bac Water, it is only stable for 48–72 hours.
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5. Potential Side Effects
• Hypoglycemia: Like insulin, IGF-DES can cause blood sugar to drop rapidly. Always consume carbohydrates immediately after or during your research session.
• Localized Swelling: Temporary soreness at the injection site.
• Intestinal Growth: While less of a risk than IGF-1 LR3, long-term abuse can potentially lead to organ growth (distended abdomen). Strict 4-week breaks are mandatory.
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The "Hypertrophy" Stack
Researchers often stack IGF-DES with MGF (Mechano Growth Factor):
1. IGF-DES: Increases the number of receptors and nutrient uptake during the workout.
2. MGF: Applied post-workout to trigger the fusion of satellite cells for permanent muscle repair.
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Quick Checklist for a 1mg Vial:
• At 50mcg/training day (4x week): One vial lasts 5 weeks.
• For a 4-week cycle: 1 vial is sufficient.