The use of IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1) is a somewhat contentious topic in both the medical and performance enhancement communities. In a therapeutic setting, IGF-1 doses typically range from 40-80 micrograms, administered 1-2 times per day. This is considered a large, high dose, and managing the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can be challenging. Most physicians will start patients at the lower end of this range, around 40 micrograms, and closely monitor their levels. The dose may be increased by 20 micrograms if necessary, but will not exceed 120 micrograms, as that would be extremely difficult to control in terms of preventing hypoglycemia.

In a performance enhancement context, 50-60 micrograms per day is a common dosage, but this is often more than necessary. Achieving excellent results does not require a high IGF-1 dose, especially if the individual is consuming enough food and using anabolic steroids. Combining the recommended HGH (Human Growth Hormone) use with IGF-1 can produce remarkable results. Many individuals could start with a lower dose of 15 micrograms per day, once daily, and slightly increase the dose if needed. This is an excellent starting point, and may be all the IGF-1 that many users require.

Regarding the duration of use, in a performance setting, IGF-1 is typically used for 2-4 weeks, followed by 2-4 weeks of no IGF-1 use, repeating this cycle as many times as desired. Some experienced hormone users may choose to continue their IGF-1 use into a "bridge" phase, where a low dose of testosterone and HGH is maintained, even after the anabolic steroid cycle has ended. However, this is an approach that should only be undertaken by the most dedicated and experienced users. If you are coming off a cycle and entering the post-cycle therapy (PCT) phase, the use of IGF-1 is not recommended, as it may promote excessive fat gain.