Top 10 Peptide Stacks: Complete Guide to Combinations
The most popular peptide combinations for recovery, growth hormone, fat loss, skin health, longevity, and more — with dosing protocols, cycle lengths, and experience levels for each stack.
In This Guide
What Is Peptide Stacking?
Peptide stacking is the practice of combining two or more peptides that work through complementary biological pathways. Rather than simply increasing the dose of a single peptide, stacking targets multiple mechanisms simultaneously — amplifying results related to recovery, body composition, longevity, skin health, and performance.
The logic behind stacking is pathway synergy. Growth hormone release, for example, can be stimulated through both GHRH pathways and ghrelin receptor activation. Using peptides that target both pathways produces a stronger, more natural GH response than either peptide alone. The same principle applies across healing, fat loss, and anti-aging protocols.
Stacking is popular among experienced peptide users, but several combinations are beginner-friendly. The key is starting with well-established, two-peptide stacks before progressing to more complex protocols. If you're completely new to peptides, start with our beginner's guide for foundational knowledge, then return here to choose your first stack.
How to Choose Your Stack
The best peptide stack depends on your primary goal. Each combination below is optimized for a specific outcome. Click any stack number to jump directly to its detailed breakdown.
Your experience level also matters — stacks marked "Beginner" use 2 well-tolerated peptides, while "Advanced" stacks involve 3–4 compounds requiring more knowledge and monitoring.
Not Sure Where to Start? Take Our Peptide Quiz
Answer a few questions about your goals, experience, and preferences to get a personalized stack recommendation.
Quick-Reference Comparison Table
Compare all 10 stacks at a glance. Click any stack name to jump to its detailed breakdown below.
| # | Stack Name | Primary Goal | Level | Cycle | Key Peptides | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin | GH Optimization | Beginner | 8–12 weeks, with 4-week breaks between cycles | CJC-1295, Ipamorelin | Growth Hormone Optimization |
| 2 | BPC-157 + TB-500 | Recovery & Healing | Beginner | 4–8 weeks for acute injuries; 8–12 weeks for chronic issues | BPC-157, TB-500 | Injury Recovery & Repair |
| 3 | GHK-Cu + BPC-157 + TB-500 | Skin & Aesthetics | Intermediate | 8–12 weeks for visible skin improvements | GHK-Cu, BPC-157, TB-500 | Skin, Tissue & Aesthetic Repair |
| 4 | CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin + IGF-1 LR3 | Muscle Growth | Advanced | 6–8 weeks (IGF-1 LR3 cycles are typically shorter) | CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, IGF-1 LR3 | Mass & Recovery |
| 5 | Sermorelin + CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin | Anti-Aging & GH | Intermediate | 12–16 weeks, with periodic breaks | Sermorelin, CJC-1295, Ipamorelin | Triple GH Release |
| 6 | Tesamorelin + CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin | Fat Loss | Intermediate | 8–12 weeks | Tesamorelin, CJC-1295, Ipamorelin | Fat Loss & Body Recomposition |
| 7 | BPC-157 + KPV + TB-500 | Inflammation Control | Intermediate | 8–12 weeks | BPC-157, KPV, TB-500 | Inflammation & Systemic Repair |
| 8 | BPC-157 + KPV | Gut Health | Beginner | 8–12 weeks | BPC-157, KPV | Gut Health & Inflammation |
| 9 | CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin + Tesamorelin + IGF-1 LR3 | Advanced Recomp | Advanced | 6–8 weeks (shorter due to IGF-1 LR3) | CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, Tesamorelin, IGF-1 LR3 | Advanced Body Composition |
| 10 | Epitalon + CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin | Longevity | Intermediate | Epitalon: 10–20 day bursts, 2–3 times per year. CJC/Ipamorelin: 8–12 weeks | Epitalon, CJC-1295, Ipamorelin | Longevity & Anti-Aging |
The 10 Most Popular Peptide Stacks
Growth Hormone Optimization Stack
Overview
The most widely known and foundational peptide stack, often considered the entry point into peptide protocols. This combination targets natural growth hormone production through two complementary pathways, making it one of the safest and most versatile stacks available.
How It Works
CJC-1295 stimulates growth hormone\u2013releasing hormone (GHRH), while Ipamorelin stimulates the ghrelin receptor. Together, they increase natural, pulsatile growth hormone release without directly introducing synthetic HGH. The dual-pathway approach produces more consistent GH elevation than either peptide alone.
Key Benefits
- Improved recovery and deeper sleep quality
- Support for lean muscle development
- Enhanced fat metabolism and body composition
- Overall hormonal optimization
Typical Protocol
Typically dosed at 100–300 mcg of each peptide, administered subcutaneously before bed or upon waking. Often used 5 days on / 2 days off.
Cycle Length
8–12 weeks, with 4-week breaks between cycles
Expected Timeline
Sleep improvements within 1–2 weeks; body composition changes at 4–8 weeks
Why It's Popular
Highly versatile, well-tolerated, and frequently referenced as a long-term foundational stack. Ideal first stack for beginners.
Injury Recovery & Repair Stack
Overview
The gold-standard stack for soft tissue repair and recovery, nicknamed the “Wolverine Stack” for its association with accelerated healing. This is one of the most searched peptide combinations, popular among athletes and anyone dealing with nagging injuries.
How It Works
BPC-157 is associated with tendon, ligament, and gut tissue repair through angiogenesis and growth factor modulation, while TB-500 supports cellular migration, blood vessel formation, and tissue remodeling. Together, they address both the structural repair and inflammatory components of healing.
Key Benefits
- Accelerated recovery from injuries and strains
- Reduced inflammation and pain
- Improved joint and connective tissue resilience
- Support for gut lining integrity
Typical Protocol
BPC-157: 250–500 mcg/day. TB-500: 2–5 mg twice per week during loading, then 2 mg weekly for maintenance. Subcutaneous injection near the injury site is common.
Cycle Length
4–8 weeks for acute injuries; 8–12 weeks for chronic issues
Expected Timeline
Reduced inflammation within 1–2 weeks; significant healing progress at 4–6 weeks
Why It's Popular
Extremely common among athletes and physically active individuals dealing with chronic wear, strain, or injury. The “Wolverine Stack” name has driven massive search interest in 2026.
Skin, Tissue & Aesthetic Repair Stack
Overview
A peptide stack focused on skin quality, tissue regeneration, and aesthetic repair rather than performance or muscle growth. This combination targets collagen synthesis, wound healing, and overall skin rejuvenation.
How It Works
GHK-Cu supports collagen synthesis, skin remodeling, and antioxidant defense, while BPC-157 and TB-500 work together to promote tissue repair, cellular regeneration, and inflammation modulation. The copper peptide adds a unique aesthetic dimension that the healing peptides alone don't provide.
Key Benefits
- Improved skin texture, elasticity, and firmness
- Support for collagen and connective tissue health
- Enhanced wound healing and scar reduction
- Overall skin rejuvenation and radiance
Typical Protocol
GHK-Cu: 1–2 mg/day (subcutaneous or topical). BPC-157: 250–500 mcg/day. TB-500: 2–5 mg twice per week.
Cycle Length
8–12 weeks for visible skin improvements
Expected Timeline
Skin texture improvements at 3–4 weeks; significant collagen changes at 8–12 weeks
Why It's Popular
Frequently discussed by users seeking cosmetic and regenerative benefits through peptides without including performance- or pigmentation-focused compounds.
Mass & Recovery Stack
Overview
A more advanced stack designed to combine growth hormone optimization with direct anabolic signaling. This builds on the foundational CJC/Ipamorelin stack by adding a potent growth factor for enhanced muscle development.
How It Works
CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin increase GH output through complementary pathways, while IGF-1 LR3 plays a direct role in muscle cell growth, nutrient uptake, and recovery signaling. IGF-1 LR3 has a longer half-life than native IGF-1, extending its anabolic window.
Key Benefits
- Enhanced lean muscle development
- Accelerated recovery between training sessions
- Increased anabolic signaling and nutrient partitioning
Typical Protocol
CJC-1295: 100–300 mcg/day. Ipamorelin: 100–300 mcg/day. IGF-1 LR3: 20–50 mcg post-workout. Timing IGF-1 LR3 around training is common.
Cycle Length
6–8 weeks (IGF-1 LR3 cycles are typically shorter)
Expected Timeline
Recovery improvements within 1–2 weeks; visible muscle fullness and composition changes at 4–6 weeks
Why It's Popular
Frequently referenced in muscle-building and physique-focused discussions. The addition of IGF-1 LR3 appeals to experienced users looking to go beyond basic GH optimization.
Triple GH Release Stack
Overview
A triple-pathway approach to stimulating endogenous growth hormone production. By engaging multiple GH release mechanisms simultaneously, this stack aims to restore more youthful growth hormone pulsatility without aggressive protocols.
How It Works
Sermorelin and CJC-1295 both act through GHRH pathways but with different pharmacokinetics — Sermorelin has a shorter half-life for acute pulses, while CJC-1295 provides sustained stimulation. Ipamorelin adds ghrelin receptor activation for a third pathway of GH release.
Key Benefits
- Youth-like GH pulsatility and release patterns
- Improved recovery, sleep quality, and energy
- Long-term hormonal support and optimization
Typical Protocol
Sermorelin: 100–300 mcg before bed. CJC-1295: 100–300 mcg before bed. Ipamorelin: 100–300 mcg before bed. Often dosed together in a single evening injection.
Cycle Length
12–16 weeks, with periodic breaks
Expected Timeline
Sleep and recovery improvements within 2 weeks; full hormonal optimization at 8–12 weeks
Why It's Popular
Often discussed for sustained, physiological GH stimulation rather than aggressive protocols. Popular among anti-aging and longevity communities.
Fat Loss & Body Recomposition Stack
Overview
A stack focused on improving body composition by targeting fat — particularly visceral fat — while preserving lean tissue. Tesamorelin is the only peptide with FDA approval for reducing abdominal fat in specific populations, making this stack evidence-backed.
How It Works
Tesamorelin is a GHRH analog specifically associated with reductions in visceral adipose tissue, while CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin support broader GH-mediated metabolic processes including lipolysis and lean mass preservation.
Key Benefits
- Targeted visceral fat reduction
- Lean mass preservation during caloric deficit
- Improved metabolic efficiency and insulin sensitivity
Typical Protocol
Tesamorelin: 1–2 mg/day (typically morning). CJC-1295: 100–300 mcg before bed. Ipamorelin: 100–300 mcg before bed.
Cycle Length
8–12 weeks
Expected Timeline
Metabolic changes within 2–4 weeks; measurable fat loss at 6–8 weeks
Why It's Popular
Commonly discussed during cutting or recomposition phases. Tesamorelin’s FDA-approved status adds credibility compared to other fat loss peptide stacks.
Inflammation & Systemic Repair Stack
Overview
An expanded recovery stack that adds a potent inflammation-modulating peptide to the classic Wolverine Stack foundation. Designed for systemic inflammatory issues, not just localized injuries.
How It Works
BPC-157 supports tissue repair and gut health, TB-500 aids cellular regeneration and blood vessel formation, and KPV is linked to inflammatory signaling modulation through alpha-MSH pathways. The three peptides address repair, regeneration, and inflammation control simultaneously.
Key Benefits
- Reduced systemic inflammation and autoimmune-related symptoms
- Improved recovery capacity across multiple systems
- Enhanced tissue resilience and gut health
Typical Protocol
BPC-157: 250–500 mcg/day. TB-500: 2–5 mg twice per week. KPV: 200–500 mcg/day (subcutaneous or oral).
Cycle Length
8–12 weeks
Expected Timeline
Inflammation reduction within 1–3 weeks; systemic improvements at 6–8 weeks
Why It's Popular
Appeals to users managing chronic inflammation, autoimmune-related concerns, or gut issues alongside physical recovery.
Gut Health & Inflammation Stack
Overview
A focused stack aimed at gastrointestinal integrity and immune balance. This is the most commonly discussed peptide combination for gut-specific issues, from leaky gut to IBS-related inflammation.
How It Works
BPC-157 is frequently associated with gut lining support, mucosal repair, and gastric protection, while KPV is discussed for its anti-inflammatory properties targeting gut-specific inflammation through NF-kB pathway modulation.
Key Benefits
- Digestive support and reduced GI symptoms
- Reduced gut inflammation and improved barrier function
- Improved nutrient absorption
Typical Protocol
BPC-157: 250–500 mcg/day (oral or subcutaneous). KPV: 200–500 mcg/day (oral capsules are common for gut-targeted use).
Cycle Length
8–12 weeks
Expected Timeline
GI symptom improvements within 1–2 weeks; gut barrier repair at 4–8 weeks
Why It's Popular
Growing interest in gut health has made this a common foundational wellness stack. The option for oral dosing makes it accessible to needle-averse users.
Advanced Body Composition Stack
Overview
A comprehensive, multi-pathway stack targeting muscle growth, fat loss, and recovery simultaneously. This is one of the most aggressive peptide combinations discussed in physique optimization circles.
How It Works
Combines GH stimulation through CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin, targeted visceral fat reduction via Tesamorelin, and direct anabolic signaling through IGF-1 LR3. Each peptide addresses a different aspect of body composition, creating a synergistic multi-angle approach.
Key Benefits
- Simultaneous lean muscle gain and fat reduction
- Enhanced recovery and training capacity
- Comprehensive physique refinement across multiple pathways
Typical Protocol
CJC-1295: 100–300 mcg/day. Ipamorelin: 100–300 mcg/day. Tesamorelin: 1–2 mg/day. IGF-1 LR3: 20–50 mcg post-workout. Requires careful timing and scheduling.
Cycle Length
6–8 weeks (shorter due to IGF-1 LR3)
Expected Timeline
Recovery and metabolic changes within 2 weeks; significant composition changes at 4–6 weeks
Why It's Popular
Often discussed in advanced or competitive physique circles. Not recommended for beginners due to the complexity of managing four peptides simultaneously.
Longevity & Anti-Aging Stack
Overview
A longevity-focused stack aimed at cellular aging and hormonal balance. This combination pairs telomere-related research with foundational growth hormone optimization for a comprehensive anti-aging approach.
How It Works
Epitalon is associated with telomerase activation and circadian rhythm regulation research, while CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin support systemic GH levels that naturally decline with age. The combination addresses aging at both the cellular and hormonal level.
Key Benefits
- Cellular aging support through telomere research
- Improved sleep quality and circadian rhythm regulation
- Overall longevity optimization and hormonal balance
Typical Protocol
Epitalon: 5–10 mg/day for 10–20 day cycles. CJC-1295: 100–300 mcg/day. Ipamorelin: 100–300 mcg/day. Epitalon is typically cycled separately from the GH peptides.
Cycle Length
Epitalon: 10–20 day bursts, 2–3 times per year. CJC/Ipamorelin: 8–12 weeks
Expected Timeline
Sleep and energy improvements within 1–2 weeks; longevity markers require long-term assessment
Why It's Popular
Strong interest from biohackers and longevity-focused users. Epitalon’s telomere research gives this stack a unique scientific angle not found in performance-focused combinations.
Stacking Safety & Rules
Peptide stacking is generally well-tolerated when done correctly, but combining multiple bioactive compounds requires knowledge and caution. Follow these principles to minimize risk and maximize results.
General Principles
- Start with one peptide first. Run a single peptide for 2–4 weeks before adding a second to identify your individual response and any side effects.
- Add compounds one at a time. If you start a 3-peptide stack all at once and get a side effect, you won't know which peptide caused it.
- Cycle your stacks. Continuous use leads to receptor desensitization. Include off-cycle periods (typically 4–8 weeks between cycles).
- Keep a log. Track dosing, timing, injection sites, and how you feel. This data is invaluable for optimizing future cycles.
What to Avoid
- Don't stack redundant pathways. Using two GHRH analogs simultaneously without a ghrelin-pathway peptide offers diminishing returns.
- Don't exceed 3–4 peptides simultaneously unless you have significant experience. More compounds means more variables and harder troubleshooting.
- Don't skip reconstitution basics. Poor preparation technique can compromise any stack. See our reconstitution guide.
- Don't ignore side effects. Persistent water retention, numbness/tingling, or significant mood changes warrant reducing dose or stopping.
Need Help Choosing a Safe Stack? Take the Quiz
Our quiz factors in your experience level, goals, and health considerations to recommend an appropriate stack for your situation.
Results Timeline: What to Expect
Peptide stacks don't produce overnight results. Here's a realistic week-by-week timeline of what most users report across the major stack categories. Individual results vary based on the specific stack, dosing, diet, training, and genetics.
Week 1–2
Initial Changes
- Improved sleep quality and deeper rest (GH stacks)
- Reduced inflammation and pain (healing stacks)
- Subtle mood and energy improvements
- Possible injection site reactions (mild, temporary)
Week 2–4
Building Momentum
- Noticeable recovery speed improvements
- Early fat mobilization and metabolic changes
- Injury and tissue healing becoming apparent
- More consistent energy levels throughout the day
Week 4–8
Visible Results
- Measurable body composition changes (fat loss, muscle tone)
- Significant healing progress for injuries
- Skin quality improvements (aesthetic stacks)
- Consistent sleep and recovery patterns established
Week 8–12+
Full Effects
- Peak body composition and performance benefits
- Major injury healing milestones reached
- Long-term hormonal optimization established
- Time to evaluate results and plan next cycle
Note: These timelines assume consistent dosing, proper reconstitution, and appropriate diet/training. Healing stacks (BPC-157 + TB-500) may show faster results for acute injuries. Longevity stacks require the longest evaluation period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Next Steps
Ready to get started? These resources will help you take the next step.
Calculate Your Dose
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Start QuizHow to Reconstitute
Learn proper peptide reconstitution technique before starting your stack — dosing math, storage, and more.
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