CJC-1295: The Modified GHRH for Sustained Growth Hormone Release
From Peptidepedia, the trusted peptide wiki.
Medical Advisory Board
Key Takeaways
CJC-1295 is a lab-made peptide that tells the pituitary gland to release more growth hormone and IGF-1.
It comes in two forms: with DAC, which lasts longer, and without DAC, which wears off much faster.
CJC-1295 is not FDA-approved, is banned by WADA, and may carry heart and blood sugar risks.
CJC-1295 is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog that stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Clinical research demonstrated that single injections increase GH levels 2- to 10-fold for six or more days and elevate IGF-1 levels 1.5- to 3-fold for 9–11 days.
Primary benefits include:
Increased lean muscle mass and strength
Enhanced fat metabolism and body composition
Improved recovery from exercise and injury
Better sleep quality
Potential anti-aging effects through elevated IGF-1 levels
Increased collagen synthesis and skin elasticity
What Is CJC-1295?
CJC-1295 with DAC is a tetrasubstituted 30-amino acid peptide hormone (molecular formula C165H269N47O46) that functions as a GHRH analog, developed by ConjuChem Biotechnologies to overcome natural GHRH's extremely short half-life of approximately 7 minutes. CJC-1295 without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29) is a distinct 29-amino acid peptide with the molecular formula C152H252N44O42. Both produce sustained, dose-dependent increases in both GH and IGF-1 without significantly altering other pituitary hormones such as prolactin, FSH, LH, or TSH.
Two Primary Forms:
CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex): The DAC modification enables covalent binding to serum albumin after injection, extending its half-life to 5.8–8.1 days. This allows once or twice weekly dosing and produces more sustained elevation of GH and IGF-1 levels.
CJC-1295 without DAC (Modified GRF 1-29 / Mod GRF): Has a half-life of approximately 30 minutes, requiring multiple daily injections. It more closely mimics the body's natural pulsatile GH release pattern, which some researchers believe better reflects natural physiology.
How It Works
GHRH Receptor Activation
CJC-1295 mimics the action of endogenous growth hormone-releasing hormone by binding to GHRH receptors on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary gland. This triggers synthesis and secretion of growth hormone while preserving natural feedback systems, unlike exogenous GH administration which suppresses endogenous production.
Extended Half-Life Through Albumin Binding
DAC technology represents a significant pharmacological advancement. After subcutaneous injection, CJC-1295 with DAC forms a covalent bond with circulating albumin through a reactive maleimido group, protecting the peptide from enzymatic degradation and renal clearance. Research confirmed an estimated half-life of 5.8–8.1 days in healthy adults.
Pulsatile vs. Sustained GH Release
CJC-1295 without DAC produces a more pulsatile pattern of GH release, which some researchers believe better mimics natural physiology. The body normally releases GH in pulses, with the largest occurrence during deep sleep. CJC-1295 with DAC creates more sustained elevation of GH and IGF-1 levels, which may benefit certain therapeutic applications but potentially blunts the natural pulsatile rhythm.
IGF-1 Axis Activation
Beyond direct GH stimulation, CJC-1295 activates the broader GH/IGF-1 axis. Elevated GH stimulates the liver to produce IGF-1, which mediates many of growth hormone's anabolic effects on muscle, bone, and other tissues. Clinical trials showed IGF-1 levels remained elevated above baseline for up to 28 days following multiple doses.
Dosage Protocols
No FDA-approved dosing guidelines exist for CJC-1295. The following protocols are derived from clinical research and community reports.
CJC-1295 without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29)
Conservative starting dose: 50–100 mcg per injection
Standard dose: 100–200 mcg per injection
Frequency: 1–2 times daily (bedtime dose is considered most important)
Timing: Often administered before bed to coincide with natural GH release, and/or upon waking
Cycle length: 8–12 weeks, followed by 4 weeks off
CJC-1295 with DAC
Starting dose: 300 mcg per injection twice weekly
Maintenance dose: 300–600 mcg once or twice weekly
Cycle length: 8–12 weeks
Cycling Guidelines
Most practitioners recommend cycling CJC-1295 to prevent receptor desensitization and maintain the body's responsiveness to the peptide. A common approach involves 8–12 weeks on, followed by 4–8 weeks off. Some users employ a 5 days on, 2 days off weekly schedule with the non-DAC version to preserve pulsatile release patterns.
How to Use / Administration
CJC-1295 is administered via subcutaneous injection, typically into the abdominal fat, thigh, or upper arm.
Injection Process:
Reconstitute the peptide (see below)
Draw the appropriate dose using an insulin syringe (typically 29–31 gauge)
Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab
Pinch the skin and insert the needle at a 45-degree angle
Inject slowly and withdraw the needle
Rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy
For CJC-1295 without DAC, most protocols involve once or twice daily injections. The bedtime dose is considered the most important, as it coincides with the body's natural nocturnal GH surge. A morning dose can be added for those seeking additional effect.
For CJC-1295 with DAC, once or twice weekly injections are sufficient due to the extended half-life. Consistency in timing (e.g., every Monday and Thursday) helps maintain stable blood levels.
Results Timelines
Weeks 1–2: Most users report improved sleep quality and more vivid dreams. Some experience mild water retention and increased appetite.
Weeks 2–4: Enhanced recovery from workouts becomes noticeable. Some users report improved skin quality and minor fat loss.
Weeks 4–8: More significant changes in body composition typically emerge, including increased muscle fullness and continued fat reduction. Strength gains may become apparent.
Weeks 8–12: Cumulative effects peak, with users often reporting the most dramatic improvements in lean mass, recovery, and overall body composition. Clinical research supports this timeline, showing IGF-1 levels remained elevated above baseline for up to 28 days with repeated dosing, suggesting cumulative benefits.
Research Evidence
The most significant clinical study on CJC-1295 was published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in 2006. This randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial examined pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety in healthy adults aged 21–61.
Key Findings:
Single injections produced dose-dependent increases in GH concentrations of 2- to 10-fold lasting 6 or more days
IGF-1 levels increased 1.5- to 3-fold for 9–11 days after a single dose
Multiple doses produced cumulative effects, with IGF-1 remaining elevated above baseline for up to 28 days
No serious adverse reactions were reported
The peptide was safe and relatively well tolerated, particularly at doses of 30 or 60 μg/kg
Animal Research: A study published in the American Journal of Physiology demonstrated that once-daily administration of CJC-1295 normalized growth in GH-deficient models, supporting its potential therapeutic applications.
Additional Study (2009): Research published in Growth Hormone & IGF Research further confirmed the activation of the GH/IGF-1 axis by CJC-1295, establishing its efficacy as a long-acting GHRH analog.
Important Note: A Phase II clinical trial investigating CJC-1295 for HIV-associated lipodystrophy was halted in 2006 following a patient death, though the relationship to the study drug was not definitively established.
Stacking
CJC-1295 is frequently combined with other peptides to enhance its effects.
CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin
This is the most popular combination. Ipamorelin is a growth hormone secretagogue that works through the ghrelin receptor, providing a complementary mechanism to CJC-1295's GHRH pathway. Together, they produce synergistic GH release greater than either peptide alone. Typical dosing involves 100–300 mcg of each peptide administered together. See the full CJC-1295 vs ipamorelin comparison for more detail.
CJC-1295 + GHRP-6 or GHRP-2
These growth hormone-releasing peptides also work through the ghrelin pathway and can be stacked with CJC-1295. GHRP-6 notably increases appetite, which may be beneficial for those seeking to gain mass. For a comparison of these two GHRPs, see GHRP-2 vs GHRP-6.
CJC-1295 + BPC-157
Some users combine CJC-1295 with BPC-157 for enhanced recovery and healing, though this combination lacks clinical research.
Reconstitution, Storage & Prep
CJC-1295 is supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder that requires reconstitution before use.
Reconstitution Process:
Allow the peptide vial to reach room temperature
Using bacteriostatic water (preferred) or sterile water, slowly inject the diluent down the inside wall of the vial, never directly onto the powder
Gently swirl the vial until the powder is fully dissolved; do not shake vigorously
For a 2 mg vial, adding 2 mL of bacteriostatic water creates a concentration of 1 mg/mL (1000 mcg/mL), making dosing calculations straightforward
Storage Guidelines:
Unreconstituted powder: Store in a cool, dry place; refrigeration extends shelf life to 24+ months
Reconstituted solution: Must be refrigerated at 2–8°C (36–46°F)
With bacteriostatic water: Stable for approximately 4–6 weeks refrigerated
With sterile water: Use within 5–7 days
Never freeze reconstituted peptides
Protect from light
Side Effects
Clinical trials reported that CJC-1295 was generally well-tolerated, with no serious adverse reactions at therapeutic doses.
Common Side Effects:
Injection site reactions (redness, pain, swelling)
Flushing and warmth, particularly facial flushing lasting 5–10 minutes post-injection
Water retention
Headaches
Dizziness
Increased hunger
Tingling or numbness in extremities
Fatigue or lethargy initially
Less Common Side Effects:
Nausea
Joint discomfort
Mood changes
Anxiety
Flu-like symptoms
Potential Concerns: The FDA has noted concerns about increased heart rate and cardiac events associated with CJC-1295. Individuals with active cancer, cardiovascular disease, or diabetes should exercise caution, as elevated GH and IGF-1 can theoretically promote cell proliferation and affect glucose metabolism.
Legal Status / FDA
CJC-1295 is not FDA-approved for human use. It exists in a regulatory gray area. It can be legally purchased for research purposes only but is not approved for human consumption or medical treatment.
In December 2024, the FDA's Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee discussed CJC-1295 among other peptides, with the agency expressing concerns about cardiac risks and the potential for peptide impurities in compounded preparations. The FDA has moved to restrict compounding pharmacies from producing certain peptides, including CJC-1295, citing safety concerns and lack of adequate clinical data.
Internationally, regulations vary significantly. Some countries permit peptide sales with fewer restrictions, while others classify them as controlled substances.
Key Regulatory Points:
Not FDA-approved for any medical indication
Cannot legally be sold as a drug, food, or dietary supplement for human consumption
Legally sold as a "research chemical" not intended for human use
Compounding pharmacy restrictions were significantly tightened in late 2024
Sports / WADA
CJC-1295 is explicitly prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). It appears on the Prohibited List under Section S2 (Peptide Hormones, Growth Factors, Related Substances, and Mimetics) as a growth hormone-releasing factor.
The WADA Prohibited List specifically names growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) and its analogues, including CJC-1295, sermorelin, and tesamorelin, as banned substances at all times, both in and out of competition.
Athletes subject to anti-doping testing should be aware that CJC-1295 and its metabolites can be detected in urine samples. Research published in Drug Testing and Analysis has established methods for identifying CJC-1295 in biological samples.
Conclusion
CJC-1295 represents a significant advancement in growth hormone secretagogue technology, offering a way to enhance the body's natural GH production rather than replacing it with exogenous hormone. Clinical research demonstrated its ability to produce sustained, dose-dependent increases in both GH and IGF-1 levels with a favorable safety profile at therapeutic doses.
For individuals who choose to use CJC-1295, understanding proper dosing, administration, and cycling protocols is essential for optimizing results while minimizing risks. The peptide's effects have made it popular among those seeking alternatives to direct GH therapy.
However, users must acknowledge the regulatory landscape: CJC-1295 is not FDA-approved, is prohibited in competitive sport, and carries potential risks that warrant careful consideration. As with any peptide or hormone-modulating compound, consultation with a knowledgeable healthcare provider is advisable.
Frequently Asked Questions
CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) has a half-life of 5.8–8.1 days due to its ability to bind to albumin, requiring only once or twice weekly injections. CJC-1295 without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29) has a half-life of approximately 30 minutes, requiring multiple daily injections but producing a more natural pulsatile GH release pattern.
Most users report improved sleep within 1–2 weeks. Noticeable changes in body composition, recovery, and muscle fullness typically emerge between weeks 4–8, with peak effects occurring around weeks 8–12 of consistent use.
Many users employ CJC-1295 for its potential anti-aging benefits, as elevated GH and IGF-1 levels are associated with improved skin quality, body composition, and recovery. However, long-term safety data for this application is limited.
Yes. WADA-accredited laboratories can detect CJC-1295 and its metabolites in urine samples. Athletes subject to anti-doping testing should not use this peptide.
For CJC-1295 with DAC, simply resume your regular schedule. Do not double dose. For CJC-1295 without DAC, missing occasional doses is less significant due to the frequent dosing schedule; simply continue with your next planned injection.
Yes. CJC-1295 does not directly affect sex hormones and can be used by women. Dosing is typically similar to that used by men, though some women start at the lower end of the dosing range.
CJC-1295 is most effective when administered on an empty stomach, as elevated blood sugar and insulin can blunt GH release. Most users inject at least 30 minutes before eating or 2–3 hours after a meal.
Early indicators include improved sleep quality, more vivid dreams, and enhanced recovery from exercise. Over time, users may notice increased muscle fullness, fat loss, improved skin quality, and better overall energy levels.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any health-related decisions.
References
Teichman SL, et al. 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. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2006;91(3):799-805.
Jette L, et al. 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. Endocrinology. 2005.
Alba M, et al. Once-daily administration of CJC-1295, a long-acting growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog, normalizes growth in the GHRH knockout mouse. American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism. 2006.
Ionescu M, Bhopale G. Activation of the GH/IGF-1 axis by CJC-1295, a long-acting GHRH analog. Growth Hormone & IGF Research. 2009.
Thomas A, et al. Identification of CJC-1295, a growth-hormone-releasing peptide, in an unknown pharmaceutical preparation. Drug Testing and Analysis. 2011.
Aidsmap. Lipodystrophy study halted after patient death. 2006.
World Anti-Doping Agency. The 2024 Prohibited List International Standard.
FDA. CJC-1295 - Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee Materials. December 2024.
Hone Health. Everything You Need to Know About the FDA Peptide Ban.
Innerbody. CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin: Benefits, Safety & Buying Advice.
See Related Peptides
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Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin: Reduce visceral fat with this GHRH analog. Stimulates natural GH release for improved body composition and metabolic markers. FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
Sermorelin
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