IGF-1
Regulatory
Legal Status in 2026
No formal FDA approval; occupies a regulatory grey area in 2026.
This compound occupies a regulatory grey area in 2026. It is neither explicitly FDA-approved nor clearly illegal for personal use, but it lacks formal clinical approval and may not be legally sold for human use in all contexts. Proceed with caution: source quality is variable, and regulatory status can change. Always consult a physician.
About
About IGF-1
Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is the primary mediator of GH anabolic effects and is produced mainly in the liver. Recombinant IGF-1 (mecasermin) is FDA-approved for severe primary IGF-1 deficiency. In optimization medicine, lr3-IGF-1 (a longer-acting analog) is used off-label for muscle growth, recovery, and neuroprotection. It is a potent anabolic compound requiring careful titration.
Science
Mechanism of Action
Binds IGF-1 receptors on muscle, bone, and neural tissue, activating PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways to promote protein synthesis, cell survival, glucose uptake, and neural plasticity.
Dosing
Typical Protocol
20–80 mcg subcutaneous injection once daily post-workout; lr3-IGF-1 used at 20–100 mcg with longer activity window.
⚠ Protocol information is for educational purposes only. Dosing must be determined by a licensed physician based on individual health status and goals.
Evidence
Evidence Tier
Evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or large observational studies in humans. This is the gold standard: effects have been measured in controlled conditions and results are peer-reviewed and reproducible.
Availability
Provider availability
IGF-1 has no FDA approval for human use and is not available through licensed US prescribing or compounding channels, so Vial does not list providers for it.
Compound comparisons
Compare IGF-1
IGF-1 set against other compounds people weigh it against.
This page evaluates compliance signals, not clinical outcomes. Consult a licensed physician before starting any therapy, medication, or treatment. Vial does not provide medical advice.