Compare Peptides

Select any two compounds for a side-by-side comparison of mechanism, uses, risks, and FDA regulatory status.

Popular comparisons

MGF

Mechano Growth Factor, IGF-1Ec

Unregulated
Growth & Recovery

PEG-MGF

Pegylated Mechano Growth Factor, PEG-MGF

Pending PCAC
Growth & Recovery
Overview

A splice variant of IGF-1 produced in response to mechanical stress on muscle tissue. Plays a key role in muscle repair by activating satellite cells. The non-PEGylated form has a very short half-life.

A pegylated form of Mechano Growth Factor, a splice variant of IGF-1 produced in response to mechanical stress on muscle tissue. The PEG (polyethylene glycol) modification extends the half-life from minutes to hours. Studied for muscle repair, hypertrophy, and recovery from injury. One of the 12 peptides removed from Category 2 in April 2026.

Mechanism of Action

Activates muscle satellite (stem) cells, promoting their proliferation and differentiation into new muscle fibers. This is distinct from IGF-1's general anabolic effects — MGF specifically targets the repair response to mechanical damage.

MGF is produced when muscle tissue is damaged or mechanically loaded. It activates satellite cells (muscle stem cells) and promotes their proliferation and differentiation into new muscle fibers. The PEG modification prevents rapid degradation, allowing sustained signaling. Works through the IGF-1 receptor but with distinct downstream effects from systemic IGF-1.

Common Uses
  • Muscle repair after injury
  • Hypertrophy support
  • Recovery from intense training
  • Localized tissue repair
  • Muscle repair and recovery
  • Hypertrophy support
  • Injury rehabilitation
  • Age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia)
  • Athletic recovery protocols
Known Risks
  • Very short half-life (minutes)
  • Must be injected locally at target site
  • Limited human data
  • Potential for uneven growth if injection technique is poor
  • Theoretical cancer risk (promotes cell proliferation)
  • Injection site pain and swelling
  • Hypoglycemia risk
  • Potential for uncontrolled cell proliferation
  • Limited human safety data
  • Banned by WADA in competitive sports
Regulatory Status
Unregulated

No FDA regulatory category. Available only as a research chemical. Not approved for any clinical indication.

Pending PCAC

Removed from Category 2 on April 22, 2026. Scheduled for PCAC Group 2 review (by February 2027). Not FDA-approved for any indication. Previously restricted under Category 2 since September 2023.

PCAC: 2027-02-01

This comparison is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide therapy.