Ipamorelin is a synthetic 5-amino acid pentapeptide (Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH₂) that acts as a selective growth hormone secretagogue (GHS).

It was developed in the mid-1990s by Novo Nordisk A/S (development code NNC 26-0161).

Researchers have investigated Ipamorelin in preclinical and early clinical models for its ability to stimulate selective, pulsatile growth hormone release from the pituitary without significantly affecting cortisol, prolactin, or other stress hormones. 

Studies have explored its potential applications in growth hormone deficiency models, postoperative ileus (intestinal motility), body composition, and metabolic research.