Can I take Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Long R3 (IGF-1LR3) with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM)?

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Last updated: May 12, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

I strongly advise against taking IGF-1LR3 with type 1 diabetes without close medical supervision due to the significant risks of unpredictable hypoglycemic episodes and interference with insulin therapy. IGF-1LR3 is a synthetic peptide that can affect blood glucose levels and potentially disrupt the delicate balance of glucose metabolism in individuals with type 1 diabetes, who already require careful management of their blood glucose levels 1. The American Diabetes Association recommends intensive insulin therapy, including multiple daily injections (MDI) or continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII), as the basis of therapy for type 1 diabetes, with a focus on achieving optimal glucose control and minimizing the risk of hypoglycemia 1.

Key Considerations

  • IGF-1LR3 is not approved for medical use in most countries and is primarily used as a performance-enhancing substance, which raises concerns about its safety and efficacy in individuals with type 1 diabetes.
  • The use of IGF-1LR3 can lead to unpredictable hypoglycemic episodes, which can be severe and difficult to manage with standard diabetes protocols, potentially resulting in increased morbidity and mortality.
  • Individuals with type 1 diabetes should prioritize evidence-based treatments, such as insulin therapy and lifestyle modifications, under the guidance of a healthcare professional, to achieve optimal glucose control and minimize the risk of complications.

Recommendations

  • If you have type 1 diabetes and are considering IGF-1LR3, consult with your endocrinologist to discuss the potential risks and benefits and explore FDA-approved alternatives for managing your condition.
  • Prioritize intensive insulin therapy, including MDI or CSII, and lifestyle modifications, such as carbohydrate counting and regular physical activity, to achieve optimal glucose control and minimize the risk of complications 1.

From the Research

IGF-1LR3 and Type 1 Diabetes

  • There is limited research directly addressing the use of IGF-1LR3 with type 1 diabetes, but studies on insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) provide some insights 2, 3.
  • IGF-I has been shown to improve glycemic control and reduce insulin requirements in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes 3.
  • In type 1 diabetes, IGF-I replacement therapy may help restore the growth hormone (GH)/IGF/IGF-binding protein (IGFBP) axis, which is often abnormal in patients with type 1 diabetes 2.
  • However, the long-term safety and metabolic efficacy of IGF-I therapy, including IGF-1LR3, remain to be established 2, 3.

Exercise and Type 1 Diabetes

  • Regular exercise is important for individuals with type 1 diabetes, as it can improve health and wellbeing, and help achieve target lipid profile, body composition, and fitness and glycemic goals 4, 5, 6.
  • However, exercise can also pose challenges for individuals with type 1 diabetes, including the risk of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia 4, 5, 6.
  • Individualized exercise programs and careful monitoring of blood glucose levels are necessary to minimize these risks 4, 5, 6.

Potential Interactions between IGF-1LR3 and Exercise

  • There is no direct evidence on the interactions between IGF-1LR3 and exercise in individuals with type 1 diabetes.
  • However, studies on IGF-I suggest that it may improve insulin sensitivity and glycemic control, which could potentially interact with the effects of exercise on glucose metabolism 2, 3.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Insulin-like growth factor-I and diabetes. A review.

Growth hormone & IGF research : official journal of the Growth Hormone Research Society and the International IGF Research Society, 1998

Research

Exercise management in type 1 diabetes: a consensus statement.

The lancet. Diabetes & endocrinology, 2017

Research

Exercise and Type 1 Diabetes.

Advances in experimental medicine and biology, 2020

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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