CJC-1295
Long-Acting GHRH Analog — Growth Hormone Pulse Amplifier
Growth Hormone & Metabolism
Version 2025-04 · Last Reviewed April 1, 2025
About this review (v2025-04, last reviewed April 1, 2025): This review was compiled from published preclinical and clinical research, FDA regulatory documents, and compounding pharmacy guidance. No peptide vendor or manufacturer reviewed or approved this content. Read our full methodology
Educational content only. This page reflects published research and does not constitute medical advice. Peptides are not FDA-approved drugs (with limited exceptions noted). Consult a licensed healthcare provider before use. Dosing is intentionally omitted — it is determined by your provider based on individual labs and goals.
What it is
CJC-1295 is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) — the natural hormone your hypothalamus releases to signal the pituitary to produce GH. Unlike ipamorelin (which triggers GH release by binding the ghrelin receptor), CJC-1295 works at the GHRH receptor to amplify the magnitude of each GH pulse. The two are frequently combined ('ipamorelin/CJC-1295') because they work on complementary pathways — one amplifies the pulse, one triggers it — producing a synergistic effect.
Regulatory status
Not FDA-approved. Not DEA scheduled. Two forms exist: CJC-1295 without DAC (also called Modified GRF 1-29 or Mod-GRF) and CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex). The DAC form has a dramatically longer half-life due to albumin binding. Compoundable at licensed 503A pharmacies under physician prescription.
Mechanism of Action
CJC-1295 binds the GHRH receptor on pituitary somatotrophs, amplifying GH secretion in response to normal physiological triggers. The DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) form contains a chemical modification allowing it to covalently bind to serum albumin, extending its half-life from ~30 minutes to approximately 8 days. This means the DAC form can be dosed once or twice weekly rather than daily. The non-DAC form (Mod-GRF 1-29) must be dosed multiple times daily and is more commonly used in pulsatile dosing protocols with ipamorelin.
What Research Has Explored
These are areas of published research — not personal recommendations.
GH and IGF-1 elevation
CJC-1295 with DAC produced dose-dependent increases in GH and IGF-1 levels sustained over multiple days in Phase I and II human trials.
Context: The clinical studies specifically measured hormone levels. Whether those hormone level increases translate to body composition changes in healthy adults is less established.
Body composition and muscle recovery
By raising GH and IGF-1 within physiological ranges, CJC-1295 theoretically supports lean mass maintenance, fat metabolism, and recovery — similar to other GH secretagogues.
Context: Direct body composition human RCTs for CJC-1295 specifically are limited. Much of the rationale extrapolates from general GH physiology.
Stability & Delivery Form — Why This Matters
Most peptides are fragile molecules destroyed by stomach acid and digestive enzymes. Delivery form determines whether the peptide survives to reach your bloodstream.
Capsule / Pill Warning
CJC-1295 in capsule or pill form has no meaningful systemic bioavailability. Stomach acid and digestive enzymes destroy the peptide bonds before absorption. If a product is sold as a capsule claiming the systemic effects of the injectable form, it cannot deliver those effects. This is a red flag about the vendor's credibility.
Subcutaneous injection (lyophilized powder, reconstituted)
The only valid route. CJC-1295 is a peptide destroyed by GI proteases. Subcutaneous injection provides reliable bioavailability.
Oral capsule
No bioavailability via oral route. Any capsule claiming to deliver systemic CJC-1295 effects cannot do so.
Reconstitution & Storage
Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water. Refrigerate at 2–8°C after mixing. CJC-1295 with DAC: once weekly or twice weekly dosing means each vial is used over several days — bacteriostatic water is essential. Stability approximately 28 days refrigerated. Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Dosing is intentionally not listed here. It is determined by your provider based on individual labs, goals, and clinical context.
Frequently Asked Questions About CJC-1295
- What is CJC-1295?
- CJC-1295 is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) — the natural hormone your hypothalamus releases to signal the pituitary to produce GH. Unlike ipamorelin (which triggers GH release by binding the ghrelin receptor), CJC-1295 works at the GHRH receptor to amplify the magnitude of each GH pulse. The two are frequently combined ('ipamorelin/CJC-1295') because they work on complementary pathways — one amplifies the pulse, one triggers it — producing a synergistic effect.
- What is CJC-1295 used for in research?
- CJC-1295 has documented human clinical data showing sustained GH/IGF-1 elevation after injection, making it one of the better-characterized GH secretagogues — though long-term body composition outcomes in healthy adults remain largely unvalidated. Research areas include: GH and IGF-1 elevation, Body composition and muscle recovery.
- Is CJC-1295 FDA approved?
- Not FDA-approved. Not DEA scheduled. Two forms exist: CJC-1295 without DAC (also called Modified GRF 1-29 or Mod-GRF) and CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex). The DAC form has a dramatically longer half-life due to albumin binding. Compoundable at licensed 503A pharmacies under physician prescription.
- How is CJC-1295 administered?
- Subcutaneous injection only
- What are the safety risks of sourcing CJC-1295?
- Key risks when sourcing CJC-1295 from grey-market or research suppliers include: CJC-1295 and Modified GRF 1-29 are frequently mislabeled as the same thing. They are related but distinct — the DAC modification produces a dramatically different half-life profile, changing the entire dosing and physiological response. Without verified source, you may be receiving a different compound.; Endotoxin contamination is the same risk as all injectable peptides from non-sterile manufacturers.; Because CJC-1295 with DAC has a long half-life, errors from contaminated or mislabeled product persist in the body for days..
- Who should avoid or be cautious about CJC-1295?
- CJC-1295 should be used with caution or avoided by: History of any cancer — GH and IGF-1 are growth factors; elevated levels have been associated with increased cancer risk in observational studies.; Acromegaly or pituitary tumors — absolute contraindication.; Diabetes or significant insulin resistance — counter-insulin effect requires careful metabolic monitoring.; Pregnancy and breastfeeding — no safety data..
Stay informed — get updates when we add new medications
We add new medications and supplements regularly. No spam, ever.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.