# IGF-1 DES

*Also known as: Des(1-3) IGF-1, IGF-DES*

Truncated, highly potent IGF-1 variant with very short half-life; site-injection research compound.

## Overview

IGF-1 DES, or des(1-3) IGF-1, is a naturally occurring truncated variant of insulin-like growth factor 1 with the first three N-terminal amino acids removed. That truncation sharply reduces binding to IGF-binding proteins, leaving more free active hormone and making DES markedly more potent than full-length IGF-1 at the receptor. It is studied as a site-injection research compound for local muscle growth. The trade-off is a very short half-life of roughly 30 minutes and around 50% subcutaneous bioavailability. Human pharmacokinetic data is essentially absent, and IGF-1 DES is not an approved medication. The clearest evidence is in vitro potency data showing enhanced receptor activation.

## Pharmacokinetics

- **Model tier:** simple
- **Half-life:** 0.0 days (0.48 hours)
- **Bioavailability:** 50%

## Dosing

- **Default dose:** 0.05 mg
- **Typical range:** 0.025–0.1 mg
- **Units:** ng/mL

## Source

- **Label:** Estimated
- **Notes:** Truncated IGF-1; markedly more potent and very short-acting.

**Tags:** muscle-building

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**Canonical URL:** https://anabolicdex.com/compounds/igf-des
**Plot:** https://anabolicdex.com/plot?compound=igf-des