How much do I take?
Is this right for me?
How do I use it?
Is it safe?
How do I know it's working?
Compound Profile
Scientific & Efficacy Data
C165H269N47O46
Molecular Formula
3647.28 g/mol
Molecular Weight
6-8 days
Half-Life
~100% (subcutaneous)
Bioavailability
863288-34-0
CAS #
56841945
PubChem ID ↗
Developed By · 2005
Louis Bhardwaj
ConjuChem Biotechnology
Primary Benefits
Sustained growth hormone increase lasting 6-8 days per injection with clinically documented 2-10 fold elevation
Once or twice weekly dosing compared to daily injections required by shorter-acting peptides
Enhanced workout recovery and improved sleep quality through sustained IGF-1 elevation
Amino Acid Sequence
Dosing
How muchdo I take?
Subcutaneous: A small injection into the fatty layer just under the skin — the same way insulin is given.
Bioavailability High — most of the dose reaches your bloodstream, just more gradually than an IV.
Starting Dose
1 mg (1000 mcg)
Frequency
Once weekly
Duration
2-4 weeks
A starting dose used in practice. The DAC version is long-acting (about a 6-8 day half-life), so weekly dosing keeps growth hormone and IGF-1 raised. In the Phase 1 trial a single dose raised GH for 6+ days and IGF-1 for up to 11 days. [2]
Standard Dose
2 mg (2000 mcg)
Once weekly (or split twice weekly)
8-12 weeks
The common maintenance dose, roughly in line with the 30-60 mcg/kg weekly range studied in the Phase 1 trial. [1][2]
Advanced Dose
2 mg per dose
Twice weekly
A higher total weekly amount split into two doses, used by experienced users; near the top of the 30-60 mcg/kg weekly range from the clinical study. [2]
Timing
Best time to take
Evening before bed or in the morning on an empty stomach. The extended half-life means timing is less critical than with shorter-acting peptides.
With food?
Best taken on an empty stomach or at least 2-3 hours after eating. Fats and carbohydrates can blunt the GH response.
If stacking
If combining with a GHRP like Ipamorelin, inject them together at the same time. The synergistic effect amplifies the GH pulse significantly.
Adjusting Your Dose
Increase if
+Tolerating current dose well with no significant side effects
+Not seeing expected improvements after 4-6 weeks
+IGF-1 blood levels remain in low-normal range
+Recovery and sleep benefits are minimal
Decrease if
-Experiencing significant water retention or bloating
-Joint pain or carpal tunnel symptoms appear
-Feeling excessively tired or lethargic
-Blood glucose levels becoming elevated
Signs of right dose
✓Improved sleep quality and waking refreshed
✓Better workout recovery within 24-48 hours
✓Gradual improvements in body composition
✓No significant water retention or discomfort
Dosing Calculator
Calculate Your Exact Dose
Step 1: Peptide Weight
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Suitability
Is thisright for me?
Best For
Growth Hormone Optimization
CJC-1295 with DAC excels at providing a sustained, steady elevation of growth hormone levels. Unlike shorter-acting peptides that create brief spikes, the DAC modification keeps GH elevated for days, mimicking a more youthful hormone profile.
Muscle Building and Recovery
By increasing both GH and IGF-1 levels, this peptide supports protein synthesis and muscle repair. Users often notice improved recovery between workouts and better ability to build and maintain lean muscle mass.
Anti-Aging and Longevity
Growth hormone naturally declines with age, contributing to many signs of aging. CJC-1295 with DAC helps restore more youthful GH levels, potentially supporting better skin quality, energy levels, and overall vitality.
Body Composition Improvement
The combination of increased GH and IGF-1 promotes fat metabolism while preserving muscle tissue. Many users experience gradual fat loss, particularly in stubborn areas, while maintaining or building lean mass.
Convenient Weekly Dosing
Unlike peptides requiring daily or twice-daily injections, the extended half-life of CJC-1295 with DAC means just one or two injections per week provide continuous benefits. Ideal for those who want results without daily protocols.
Consider Alternatives If
Goal: More controlled GH pulsing (mimicking natural rhythm)
Consider: CJC-1295 without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29), Sermorelin
Goal: Oral option for GH support
Consider: MK-677 (Ibutamoren), GH-releasing supplements
Goal: More potent GH release
Consider: Tesamorelin, GHRP-6 + Mod GRF 1-29 stack
Goal: Healing and recovery focus
Consider: BPC-157, TB-500, IGF-1 LR3
Who Should Avoid
Do not use if
×You have active cancer or a history of malignancy (GH may promote tumor growth)
×You are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding
×You have pituitary tumors, disorders, or have had pituitary surgery
×You have uncontrolled diabetes or diabetic retinopathy
×You have had severe allergic reactions to GHRH analogs
×You are under 18 years of age
Use with caution if
!You have a family history of cancer
!You are taking diabetes medications (may need adjustment)
!You have carpal tunnel syndrome or are prone to it
!You have a history of edema or fluid retention issues
!You are taking thyroid medications (GH can affect thyroid function)
!You have kidney or liver disease
Not Sure?
Compare CJC-1295 with DAC with similar peptides to find the best fit for your goals.
Administration
How do Iuse it?
Reconstitution
What you need
•Bacteriostatic water (BAC water)
•Insulin syringe (29-31 gauge)
•Alcohol swabs
•Sterile vial of CJC-1295 DAC powder
Example
2mg vial + 2mL BAC water = 1mg/mL (1000mcg/mL). Each 0.1mL (10 units) = 100mcg
For 1000mcg dose at 1mg/mL concentration: draw 1.0mL (100 units on insulin syringe). For 2000mcg: draw from two vials or use a higher concentration.
Injection
Route
Subcutaneous injection
Best sites
•Abdomen (2 inches away from navel)
•Front or outer thigh
•Back of upper arm
•Lower back / love handle area
Technique
1.Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and allow to dry completely
2.Pinch a fold of skin between your thumb and forefinger
3.Insert the needle at a 45-90 degree angle (depending on body fat)
4.Inject the solution slowly and steadily
5.Release the skin fold and withdraw the needle
6.Apply light pressure if needed - do not rub the area
Storage
Before reconstitution
Store lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in the refrigerator at 36-46°F (2-8°C). Protect from light by keeping in original packaging or wrapped in foil. Can tolerate brief room temperature exposure during shipping.
After reconstitution
Always refrigerate after mixing with bacteriostatic water. Keep at 36-46°F (2-8°C). Never freeze reconstituted solution. Use within 28 days for best potency.
Signs of degradation
Cloudy or hazy appearance instead of clear solution
Visible particles, floaters, or clumps
Color change from clear to yellow or brown
Unusual odor
Sample Daily Schedule
Evening (before bed)
1000-2000 mcg injection
Site: Abdomen or thigh (rotate sites)
Evening dosing capitalizes on natural nighttime GH release. Take on empty stomach for best results.
Second dose mid-week (if twice weekly)
Site: Different site than first injection
Space injections 3-4 days apart (e.g., Monday and Thursday evenings) for sustained GH elevation.
Safety
Is itsafe?
Safety Profile
CJC-1295 with DAC was evaluated in Phase 1-2 human clinical trials where it demonstrated a generally favorable safety profile. The most common adverse events were mild injection site reactions including temporary pain, swelling, and redness. No serious adverse events were reported in the published clinical studies. The compound was being developed for HIV-associated lipodystrophy before the program was discontinued.
Safety data comes from limited Phase 1-2 clinical trials conducted in the mid-2000s. While no serious adverse events were reported, long-term safety data is not available. The clinical development program was discontinued, so large-scale safety studies were never completed.
Common Side Effects
Experienced by some users
Injection site reactions
Redness, swelling, itching, or mild pain at injection site
Management: Rotate injection sites, apply ice before injection, ensure proper technique
Water retention
Mild bloating or puffiness, especially in hands and feet
Management: Reduce sodium intake, stay well hydrated, consider reducing dose if significant
Flushing
Temporary warmth or redness of skin, particularly face
Management: Usually subsides within 15-30 minutes, more common at higher doses
Tingling sensation
Pins and needles feeling, especially in hands
Management: Usually temporary, may indicate elevated GH - reduce dose if persistent
Less Common
•Headaches
•Fatigue or lethargy
•Joint discomfort
These typically resolve with continued use or dose adjustment.
Stop and Seek Help If
×Signs of allergic reaction (rash, hives, difficulty breathing, swelling)
×Persistent carpal tunnel symptoms (numbness, tingling, weakness in hands)
×Significant or unexplained swelling in hands, feet, or face
×Sudden vision changes or new joint pain that doesn't resolve
×Blood glucose becoming consistently elevated
×Discovery of any tumor or malignancy
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any peptide protocol. These guidelines are for educational purposes and do not constitute medical advice.
Interactions
With other peptides
✓Excellent synergy - combine for amplified GH release. Inject together.
✓Strong synergy but may increase hunger significantly. Use together if desired.
✓Good synergy for GH release. Can be combined in same injection.
!Redundant - no benefit to combining both versions.
✓Safe to combine for recovery benefits. Different mechanisms.
With medications
!Insulin - CJC-1295 DAC can raise blood glucose - may need insulin adjustment. Monitor closely.
!Diabetes medications - May counteract blood sugar lowering effects. Requires monitoring.
!Thyroid medications - GH can affect thyroid function - monitor thyroid levels.
!Corticosteroids - May blunt GH response - avoid if possible or use cautiously.
✓Blood pressure medications - Generally safe but monitor as body composition changes may affect BP.
With supplements
✓Arginine - May enhance GH release - can be taken together for added benefit.
✓Glutamine - May support GH release and recovery - safe to combine.
✓GABA - May support sleep and GH release - safe combination.
✓Melatonin - Safe to combine - may enhance sleep benefits of evening dosing.
Effectiveness
Does itwork?
Evidence Level
Moderate human trials
What to Expect
Week 1-2
What you might notice
•Mild injection site reactions (normal and temporary)
•Possible water retention or slight bloating
•May notice improved sleep quality beginning
•Some users feel slight fatigue as body adjusts
•Subtle increase in hunger in some individuals
What's normal
•Side effects like flushing or tingling are common and usually mild
•Benefits are subtle at first - GH builds up over time
•Sleep improvements are often the first noticeable effect
What's next
→Continue consistent dosing schedule
→Track sleep quality and recovery between workouts
→Note any side effects to discuss with provider if needed
Week 3-4
•Improved sleep quality becomes more consistent
•Better recovery after workouts
•Skin may start looking healthier or more hydrated
•Water retention typically stabilizes or decreases
•Energy levels may begin improving
•IGF-1 levels are building in your system
•Body composition changes are starting but may not be visible yet
•Side effects often diminish as body adapts
→Consider increasing to standard twice-weekly dosing if not already
→Continue monitoring how you feel and recover
→Maintain consistent injection schedule
Week 5-8
•More noticeable improvements in recovery time
•Possible visible changes in body composition
•Improved skin elasticity and appearance
•Consistent deeper sleep and waking refreshed
•Better performance in workouts
•Some fat loss, especially in stubborn areas
•Full effects are becoming established
•GH and IGF-1 levels are at steady elevated state
•Body has typically adapted to the peptide
→Continue current protocol if working well
→Consider lab work to check IGF-1 levels
→Assess whether dose adjustment is needed
Week 9-12+
•Sustained improvements in body composition
•Continued enhanced recovery and performance
•Maintained improvements in sleep and energy
•Possible continued gradual fat loss
•Overall sense of improved well-being and vitality
•Benefits are cumulative and continue to build
•Some users plateau and may benefit from a break
•Results vary based on diet, exercise, and individual response
→Consider a 4-8 week break after 12 weeks to prevent desensitization
→Reassess goals and whether to continue another cycle
→Maintain healthy lifestyle habits to preserve gains
Signs It's Working
Sleep and Recovery
✓Falling asleep faster and sleeping more deeply
✓Waking up feeling more refreshed and energized
✓Reduced muscle soreness after intense workouts
✓Faster recovery between training sessions
✓More vivid dreams (indicates deeper REM sleep)
Body Composition
✓Gradual reduction in body fat, especially abdominal area
✓Increased muscle fullness and definition
✓Clothes fitting differently (looser in waist, tighter in shoulders)
✓Improved muscle pumps during workouts
✓Better ability to maintain muscle during calorie restriction
Skin and Appearance
✓Improved skin hydration and elasticity
✓Reduction in fine lines or wrinkles
✓Healthier-looking complexion
✓Faster healing of minor cuts or blemishes
✓Stronger, healthier-looking hair and nails
Energy and Performance
✓More consistent energy throughout the day
✓Improved exercise endurance and capacity
✓Better mental clarity and focus
✓Increased motivation for physical activity
✓Reduced fatigue during demanding tasks
Not Seeing Results?
Common reasons
•Dose too low - consider increasing to standard 2mg twice weekly protocol
•Inconsistent dosing - the long half-life requires regular administration for sustained levels
•Not enough time - full effects take 6-8 weeks to become apparent
•Poor quality peptide - source from reputable suppliers with third-party testing
•Improper storage - degraded peptide will not work; ensure proper refrigeration
•Taking with food - fats and carbs can blunt GH release; take on empty stomach
•Unrealistic expectations - this is a gentle, gradual approach, not overnight transformation
•Lifestyle factors - poor sleep, diet, or lack of exercise can limit results
Key Research
[1]"Human growth hormone-releasing factor (hGRF)1-29-albumin bioconjugates activate the GRF receptor on the anterior pituitary in rats: identification of CJC-1295 as a long-lasting GRF analog"
Jette L et al., 2005
Finding: This foundational study identified CJC-1295 as a long-lasting GHRH analog. The DAC technology allowed the peptide to bind to serum albumin, extending its presence in circulation beyond 72 hours and producing a 4-fold increase in GH release compared to native GHRH(1-29).
[2]"Prolonged stimulation of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor I secretion by CJC-1295, a long-acting analog of GH-releasing hormone, in healthy adults"
Teichman SL et al., 2006
Finding: In healthy adults, a single injection of CJC-1295 increased GH levels by 2-10 fold for 6+ days and IGF-1 levels by 1.5-3 fold for 9-11 days. The half-life was 5.8-8.1 days. Multiple doses showed cumulative effects, with IGF-1 remaining elevated for up to 28 days. No serious adverse reactions were reported.
[3]"Advances in the detection of growth hormone releasing hormone synthetic analogs"
Memdouh S et al., 2021
Finding: This anti-doping research review confirmed CJC-1295's status as a prohibited substance in sports due to its potent ability to elevate GH and IGF-1 levels. The study documents the peptide's pharmacological activity and the development of detection methods.
[4]"Analysis of growth hormone releasing hormone and its analogs in urine using nano liquid chromatography"
Ucakturk E et al., 2026
Finding: Recent analytical methods have been developed to detect CJC-1295 and other GHRH analogs in urine, demonstrating continued interest in these compounds for both clinical and anti-doping purposes.
The Science
Stacking & Combinations
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between CJC-1295 with DAC and without DAC?
How long until I see results?
Should I stack CJC-1295 DAC with Ipamorelin?
Can CJC-1295 DAC help with weight loss?
Is CJC-1295 DAC the same as HGH?
Why was the clinical development discontinued?
Do I need to cycle CJC-1295 DAC?
Is CJC-1295 DAC legal?
Technical Specifications