IGF-1 LR3 Review for Bodybuilding: Dosage, Sides Effects, Dangers

We know that Growth Hormone seems to be key to growth and fat loss, but how do other Peptides fit into the equation? Let's look at the infamous IGF-1 LR3 and its place.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Mohammed Fouda
Dr. Fouda uses his extensive knowledge and expertise as an academic scholar to medically review articles for scientific accuracy and credibility, ensuring that the medical information presented is up-to-date and trustworthy. He is responsible for ensuring the quality of the medical information presented on our website.

Welcome to our no-nonsense IGF-1 LR3 Review โ€“ the lowdown on a peptide that means business in the fitness world. 

We’re cutting through the fluff to get straight to the facts about Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 and its potent variant, IGF-1 LR3. 

In a world where traditional Growth Hormone gets the nod, we’re here to dissect whether the upgraded IGF-1 LR3 truly lives up to the hype. 

We’ll walk you through the benefits, potential side effects, and real user experiences.

Stacking strategies, the impact on muscle cells โ€“ we’re demystifying it all without the theatrics. So, buckle up for a straightforward exploration of IGF-1 LR3!

Key Takeaways

  • IGF1 LR3 is a lengthened and more stable version of IGF1.
  • It has a lower binding affinity with IGF Binding proteins.
  • It can help with building muscle and losing fat.
  • Other benefits include lowering inflammation, and nutrient partitioning.
  • Not as strong as HGH, but worth the money in the right scenario.

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IGF-1 LR3 Review: What is IGF 1 LR3?

IGF 1 refers to Insulin-Like Growth Factor, a natural hormone found in the body working in close relation to natural Growth Hormone production.

IGF-1 LR3 Review
Figure 1: LR3 is an analog of pure IGF-1

As children, these two are vital for the growth and development of bone and other tissues, however, as we age we see a reduction in both of these.

This reduction does have side effects such as decreased muscle mass, increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, etc.

IGF 1 LR3 on the other hand is something a bit more complicated. This is a lengthened analog of natural IGF-1. There are two main differences:

  1. It possesses an Arginine instead of a Glutamic Acid in the third position
  2. It also possesses 13 additional Amino Acids at the N-terminus

Why these changes? Well, they massively increase the effectiveness of IGF-1 by lowering its affinity to the insulin-like growth factor-binding proteins (IGFBPs).

How Does IGF 1 LR3 Work?

Normal IGF-1 will bind to the IGF receptors (IGF1 Receptor (IGFR), and the insulin receptor) in the body and cause a biological change wherever it is bound.

IGF 1 LR3 will regulate hypertrophy and muscle growth via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and PI3K/Akt/GSK3ฮฒ pathways.

Because LR3 has greater metabolic stability compared to the regular stuff, it seems to be far more effective at the mechanisms it involves.

While IGF 1 will virtually act on all of the body’s cells, looking at what it can do in muscle cells, it will boost protein synthesis, it might act as a glucose uptake aid, and it will also lead to a positive Nitrogen balance.

All of these form part of the perfect muscle-building environment, and thus IGF 1 LR3 can help with this when combined with training, diet, and the correct polypharmacology.

Another thing to consider is the fact that it could play a role in the downregulation of Glucocorticoids.

This will not only massively reduce inflammation but thereby also boost recovery tremendously.

IGF-1

IGF 1 refers to Insulin-Like Growth Factor, a natural hormone found in the body working in close relation to natural Growth Hormone production.

IGF 1 will virtually act on all of the bodyโ€™s cells, looking at what it can do in muscle cells, it will boost protein synthesis, it might act as a glucose uptake aid, and it will also lead to a positive Nitrogen balance.

All of these form part of the perfect muscle-building environment, and thus IGF 1 LR3 can help with this when combined with training, diet, and the correct polypharmacology.

Another thing to consider is the fact that it could play a role in the downregulation of Glucocorticoids. This will not only massively reduce inflammation but thereby also boost recovery tremendously.

IGF-1 Overview

โญ๏ธ Top Benefits: Anti-aging, improved muscle mass, fat loss, and improved life quality
๐Ÿงช Form: Injectable liquid
โŒ›๏ธ Max Time Used: 2 – 3 Weeks
๐Ÿ’ฐ Average Cost: $88.99
โค๏ธโ€๐Ÿฉน Side Effects: Hypoglycemia and stomach discomfort
โ˜ข๏ธ Dangers: Hypoglycemia can be dangerous if unexpected
๐Ÿ“š Best Peptide Stack: HGH
โšค Men/Women: Men and women
โžก๏ธ Go to the Full review

  • Anti-aging
  • Muscle gain
  • Fat loss
  • Improved life quality
  • Better hair and skin
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Stomach discomfort

What are the Benefits of IGF 1 LR3?

Increase in Muscle Mass

IGF-1 LR3 promotes significant muscle growth by enhancing the proliferation and differentiation of muscle cells. 

This leads to an increase in muscle mass, making it a valuable tool for athletes and bodybuilders aiming to build lean muscle.

Muscle Development of Injured Muscle Cells

For individuals recovering from injuries or muscle damage, IGF-1 LR3 can accelerate the healing and regeneration of muscle tissue

It aids in repairing and strengthening damaged muscle cells, facilitating a quicker recovery process.

Fat Reduction Potential

IGF-1 LR3 can aid in the breakdown of adipose tissue (fat) by increasing the rate of lipolysis. 

This contributes to fat loss and improved body composition, making it a sought-after benefit for those looking to shed excess weight.

Anti-Aging Effects

IGF-1 LR3 can play a role in slowing down the aging process by promoting cellular repair and regeneration. 

This can result in improved skin elasticity, reduced wrinkles, and a more youthful appearance.

Glucose Disposal Agent

It acts as a glucose disposal agent, enhancing the uptake and utilization of glucose in muscle cells. 

This can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and potentially benefit those with diabetes or individuals seeking better control of their insulin sensitivity.

Part of Glucocorticoid Therapy

IGF-1 LR3 can be a valuable component of glucocorticoid therapy, which is used to manage various medical conditions. 

Its ability to promote tissue repair and muscle growth can complement the therapeutic effects of glucocorticoid medications.

Joint Pain Alleviation

For individuals suffering from joint pain or conditions like arthritis, IGF-1 LR3 can provide relief by supporting joint and connective tissue health

It may reduce inflammation and discomfort, leading to improved mobility and comfort.

Improved Athletic Performance

Athletes often turn to IGF-1 LR3 to enhance their overall athletic performance. 
It helps in building muscle strength, increasing endurance, and improving recovery, ultimately leading to better athletic results and achievements.

What are the Side Effects of IGF 1 LR3?

Muscle and Joint Pain

IGF-1 LR3 use can sometimes result in muscle and joint pain as a side effect. This discomfort is often due to the rapid muscle growth and increased stress on the joints. 

It can be particularly noticeable in individuals who are new to using this peptide or those who engage in intense physical activity. 

However, the pain is typically temporary and can be managed with appropriate adjustments in dosage or activity level. 

It’s essential to use IGF-1 LR3 under the guidance of a healthcare professional to minimize the risk of experiencing muscle and joint discomfort.

Injection Site Pain

Another common side effect associated with IGF-1 LR3 is injection site pain. This pain is localized to the area where the peptide is administered, which is typically subcutaneously. 

Injection site discomfort may occur due to irritation, bruising, or inflammation at the site of injection. 

To mitigate this side effect, individuals can rotate injection sites and use proper injection techniques

Additionally, ensuring that the injection is administered

How to Use IGF 1 LR3

As mentioned, there are 101 different ways to use (all Peptides) IGF 1 LR3.

Depending on how much you can afford, how much you can handle, and the protocol of the rest of your pharmacology, your cycle would differ wildly from someone else’s.

IGF-1 LR3 Review: Cycle & Dosage

Dosage

A common dosage is around 20-40 mcg per day 2 – 3 times per week. Start on the lower end and gradually increase over the cycle. Do not exceed 100 mcg per day.

Cycle Length

IGF-1 LR3 cycles typically last 4-6 weeks. Any longer than 6 weeks is not recommended due to potential desensitization.

Injection Frequency

Inject IGF-1 LR3 subcutaneously once or twice per day, preferably in the mornings and after workouts.

Post Cycle Therapy

A mini PCT is recommended after an IGF-1 cycle. Use a SERM like Tamoxifen or Clomid at low doses for 2-3 weeks. This can help restart natural IGF-1 production.

On Cycle Support

Have an AI like Arimidex on hand to control estrogen levels. Monitor blood sugar and use Berberine if needed. Stay well hydrated.

Time of Day

IGF-1 LR3 is best injected in the mornings and/or post-workout when your natural IGF-1 levels are highest.

Training

Train hard and allow for sufficient rest and recovery when using IGF-1 LR3 for maximum results. Focus on progressive overload.

Diet 

Follow a high protein, moderately carb-restricted, caloric surplus diet to support muscle growth.

Always start conservatively with new compounds and adjust the dosage and cycle based on how your body responds. Do your research on side effects and get bloodwork done. Be safe!

IGF 1 LR3 Stack

IGF 1 LR3 is most commonly stacked with Human Growth Hormone (HGH), Insulin, Anabolic Steroids, and a vast amount of Amino Acids.

IGF 1 LR3 User Experiences

“Wow so today i ate 50g carbs mostly a gatoraide drink then injected 50mcg sub q.

Trained chest and back about 30 minutes later and i can’t believe strength pump etc all went up.

I am almost finish with the 1 month cycle i barely trained, i wanted to rest to get that damn groin pain under control.

But today was magic. After my cycle i am gonna stop but hit another one 2 months later.

Love them peptides.

All my peptides come from canlab, if they are too expensive i go with Canadian medical supply but my first choice is always canlab.

IMO its purely an aesthetic drug. I’ve never been able to tease out any demonstrable “gains” I’ve made from it and I’ve probably ran more than most have of lr3…in the neighborhood or 200+ milligrams over the years. It does have a profound aesthetic effect though, the easiest way to put it is its like “GH on steroids” :p

your veins pop out, you lose fat quicker, you retain a little more intramuscular water so you feel more pumped than normal….buuuut, that all goes away after stopping it and you return back to baseline. Its true of literally everything. Nothing gives “permanent gains” anyways – when running PEDs your body is adjusting to whatever you are feeding it or stopping feeding it drug wise.”

MatsuoMunefusa

When To Inject IGF 1 LR3

Post-workout would be the best time of the day to use IGF 1 LR3. It is not essential to use it along with HGH and Insulin, but it does help.

You would also need to dump a ton of Amino Acids into the body to get the best effects. This combination of factors would allow for the most amount of cell growth.

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IGF 1 LR3 for Bodybuilding

A common way to try and increase muscle mass and decrease fat mass would be to use Peptides.

The most common would be pure HGH, as this would lower the need for Androgens. Does IGF 1 LR3 belong in your stack?

Perhaps. The truth is you would probably need to use IGF 1 LR3 in conjunction with other Peptides and Androgens to get the best results.

For instance, a popular method of utilizing polypharmacy would be:

  1. Injection of Human Growth Hormone before your workout to cause a basal release of IGF 1 into the body
  2. Injecting Insulin post-workout to allow for greater nutrient shuttling into the muscle cells
  3. 45 – 60 minutes you would use an IGF 1 product (such as LR3) in a localized fashion, meaning you inject it into the target muscle. While steps 1 and 2 are fine on every workout day, step 3 should be kept to 2 – 3 times per week

Even then, looking at the reviews online it would appear that IGF 1 DES seems to be better for overall hypertrophy.

That said, LR3 seems to be amazing at helping with nutrient partitioning and could lower your need for Insulin.

This means less Insulin use, fewer insulin sensitivity issues, and better recovery all around.

This could avoid a metabolic syndrome like prediabetes, and could even avoid weight gain from fat, potentially.

Does IGF 1 really increase Muscle Cells?

IGF 1 does lead to an increase in muscle hypertrophy, there is no doubt about that. However, people often misunderstand how strong it is in relation to Anabolic Steroids.

Figure 2: Yes, IGF-1 will definitely increase muscle cell size
  1. Steroids will increase the size of muscle cells greatly, but will not increase the number of muscle fibers as effectively
  2. IGF 1 on the other hand is far better at increasing the number of muscle fibers

However, these new fibers are young, weak, and barely noticeable.

This is why (for the best results) professional bodybuilders combine IGF 1 LR3 with other compounds to get the best anabolic effects.

IGF 1 LR3 Pricing

A few things to note is that IGF1 LR3 is not as expensive as pure HGH, however, it does run you more than pure IGF1.

The more you purchase at a single time the cheaper it gets, and it would seem the best way to purchase it would be 10 vials at a time.

IGF1 LR3 along with most other Peptides are banned by WADA, the World Anti-Doping Agency. This means that as a competitor in a tested sport, you would not be allowed to use this compound.

That said, as a normal human being, you are allowed to purchase this compound under a few terms. “Research Chemical” and “Not for Human Use”.

When an Amino Acid sequence is sold under these terms, it is referred to as Research Peptide and can be purchased legally.

IGF 1 LR3 vs. Other Compounds

ComparisonHGH vs IGF-1 LR3IGF1 vs IGF-1 LR3IGF 1 vs PEG-MGF
Effectiveness๐ŸŒŸ HGH is deemed more powerful, delivering superior results in cell division and fat breakdown.๐Ÿš€ IGF-1 LR3 showcases enhanced metabolic stability, leading to prolonged presence in the body.๐Ÿ’ช IGF-1 stands out as a potent choice for muscle hypertrophy and cell proliferation.
Clinical Trials๐Ÿงช Limited clinical trials, but user experiences favor HGH for its strength.๐Ÿ’ก LR3’s improved half-life offers advantages over pure IGF-1, which has a short half-life.๐Ÿ’‰ PEG-MGF, favored in aging populations, lacks the muscle-building prowess of IGF-1.
Half-life๐Ÿ•ฐ HGH offers potent effects with a standard half-life.๐Ÿ•’ LR3’s prolonged half-life enhances its effectiveness.๐Ÿ•’ IGF-1’s potency is attributed to its strong muscle-building capabilities.
Role in Athletes๐Ÿ† Favored for its potency, especially in athletes seeking robust results in muscle development.๐Ÿ‹๏ธ LR3 proves valuable in the fitness realm, offering sustained effects for muscle growth.๐Ÿ‹๏ธ IGF-1’s dominance in athletes’ preferences is due to its superior muscle hypertrophy.

HGH vs IGF1 LR3

Which of these two is worth spending your hard-earned money on? Anyone with a fragment of a brain would say go for the HGH.

Yes, LR3 has a really long half-life and yes due to this it has noticeable effects on new muscle cells, however, nothing beats HGH.

HGH is way more powerful and will have far greater results on cell division and fat breakdown as well.

There are not a lot of clinical trials looking at the dosing and polypharmacy one of us might use, however, every single person who chemically altered their body with either of these said HGH was far stronger. Because it is.

IGF1 vs IGF1 LR3

The big question, of course, is if LR3 is really worth it. And the answer is yes.

Lr3 has far more improved metabolic stability, meaning the amount of time it can spend in the body binding to receptors and causing cell-to-cell communication is far greater.

Pure IGF 1 has a woefully low half-life, meaning the amount of time it spends in the human body causing changes is very low.

IGF 1 vs PEG-MGF

MGF or Mechano Growth Factor is another popular peptide, especially in the aging population. That said, it doesn’t really have such a big role in athletes and other high-performance individuals.

Sure, it can help, however, if the goal is cell proliferation and cell division (muscle hypertrophy) IGF1 is stronger and better.

Conclusion: IGF-1 LR3 Review

We’ve learned a lot today – it’s okay if it feels overwhelming. I used to find IGF1 confusing too and to be honest, I still have to pull out a notebook now and then.

LR3 is a longer and more stable version of pure IGF1, and when combined with physical exercise, can have some really good results.

Combine it with other pharma, and you could have one massive synergy resulting in massive gains.

The insulin Growth Factor is one of the most important hormones we have as humans, and due to the longer half-life, LR3 is vastly superior.

I would still spend my money on HGH first and then start looking at stacking it with another synthetic peptide or synthetic protein.

But, yes, IGF1 LR3 is worth it if you can afford it.

Does IGF-1 make you bigger?

It can, yes. It is known to help with hyperplasia, and can certainly help you grow more muscle tissue. The problem is it will not make you grow as fast as Steroids do, and it might require polypharmacy.

Does IGF-1 LR3 increase strength?

Very minimally. It will not increase the neurological activity of the body, nor will it increase recovery of the joints like a 19-Nor would. It would only increase strength by slowly causing hypertrophy.

IGF1 LR3 Results

Many have claimed that LR3 helped them stay leaner in the off-season, most likely due to its nutrient partitioning effects.

Does IGF-1 LR3 burn fat?

Not in the conventional sense. What it can do is help push nutrients into the body cells found in muscle, and not fat. Thus, most people do get leaner on IGF1 LR3.

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Contributors

Daniel Louwrens BSc PT

Daniel Louwrens BSc PT | Writer

Daniel Louwrens is a well-rounded fitness professional with over 10 years of experience in bodybuilding and fitness. He holds a BSc in Chemistry from the University of Western Cape and is a certified International Personal Trainer and Nutritionist. He is also a skilled bodybuilder and head coach for Muscle and Brawn. With his knowledge and expertise, he provides personalized training, nutrition, and recovery guidance to help clients reach their fitness goals.

Read all articles
Dr. Mohammed Fouda

Dr. Mohammed Fouda | Reviewer

Dr. Fouda uses his extensive knowledge and expertise as an academic scholar to medically review articles for scientific accuracy and credibility, ensuring that the medical information presented is up-to-date and trustworthy. He is responsible for ensuring the quality of the medical information presented on our website.

Read all articles
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Michael Delatte
Michael Delatte
7 months ago

Information seems very useful.

M M
M M
7 months ago

What is the difference between IGF-1, LR3, and DES? What does the research show that differentiates them and the level of impact that they potentially could have on the human body. Thank you

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