Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1)

IGF-1
Description
Usually Comes in 2 cc vials. This product is a freeze dried white powder that requires refrigeration and is light sensitive. This powder is supposed to be reconstituted with bacteriostatic water to equal an amount of 2 cc. IGF-1 or insulin-like growth factor 1 is a structural homologue of insulin that exhibits insulin-like activity. IGF-1 is synthesized in the liver and it is bound to carrier proteins that determine it's biological actions. IGF-1 is also the peptide through which growth hormone exerts most of its growth promoting effects. If you raise GH levels in the body, IGF-1 levels will also rise. IGF-1 does have an effect on insulin production in the body. It will lead to a decrease in insulin secretion which at the same time increase insulin sensitivity. IGF-1 is chemically the same as insulin but it is also somewhat different. IGF-1 does not seem to regulate glucose levels in the body like insulin does though. 
As far as bodybuilders are concerned, IGF-1 has several good effects. It enhances nitrogen balance while simultaneously promoting fat loss. Bodybuilders are claiming a 5% drop in bodyfat per month and huge increases in strength. It also seems to lower LDL cholesterol. IGF-1 also normalizes hypoglycemia and hyperinsulinemia. It stimulates DNA synthesis and cell multiplication. It might stimulate red-blood cell production thereby increasing endurance. This action would be similar to what EPO does for the body as well (see EPO description). It is about 3 times less effective in this process as EPO in that respect. EPO has bee used for years to increase oxygen utilization efficiency. Bodybuilders have also found that IGF-1 reacts synergistically with long duration testosterone's as well. Testosterone enanthate increases serum IGF-1 levels in the body up to 21%. 
When taken on its own, IGF-1 has a short half life. As is, the active duration is only about 10 minutes in the body. Binding proteins added to the compound seem to extend the half-life dramatically. When coupled with IGFBP-3 (IGF binding protein-3), the half-life is extended to between 6 and 16 hours which is a much more usable time duration. This product is very hard to get ahold of as well. Most people will probably never even see a vial of this stuff. It is only made by three pharmaceutical companies in the world. To get some of this, you have to be either a research student or know someone who knows someone, who knows someone....if you can find it, IGF-1 will cost you between 
Effective Dose
20 to 60mcgs  every other day. 
Stacking Info
It is commonly stacked with insulin, growth hormone, and any and all steroids.

BigJim & Nautica 

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