CJC-1295 (with & without DAC)

Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone Analog

CJC-1295 is a synthetic peptide that mimics growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH). The hypothalamus naturally produces GHRH to tell the pituitary gland when to release growth hormone. CJC-1295 does the same thing, except it lasts much longer in the body than natural GHRH.

There are two versions of this peptide: CJC-1295 with DAC has a Drug Affinity Complex attached that allows it to bind to albumin, a protein in the blood. This protects the peptide from being broken down quickly and extends its half-life to 6 to 8 days. One injection can keep working for over a week. Think of it like a slow- release capsule. You inject far less often and your baseline stays elevated for days. It is a good option if you want convenience and fewer injections.

CJC-1295 without DAC (also called Mod GRF 1-29 or Modified GRF) lacks the DAC attachment. It has a much shorter half-life of about 30 minutes to 2 hours. This means it needs to be injected daily or even twice daily, but it creates a pattern of growth hormone release that more closely matches the body’s natural rhythm. Think of it like a quick-release pill. It is a good option if you want more natural pulses and you are willing to inject more often. CJC-1295 without DAC is the most popular GHRH analog for a reason. It is more stable than sermorelin and has a cleaner side effect profile. It preserves the natural pulsatile pattern while requiring daily injection, which is why it became the standard choice for stacking with ipamorelin.

Both versions were developed by ConjuChem Biotechnologies. CJC-1295 with DAC reached Phase 2 clinical trials for lipodystrophy and growth hormone deficiency before development was discontinued. Neither version is FDA-approved.

How It Works

CJC-1295 is a modified version of the first 29 amino acids of natural GHRH. Those 29 amino acids contain everything needed to signal the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. The modifications make the peptide more stable and longer lasting than the natural hormone.

The Signaling Pathway

When CJC-1295 enters the bloodstream, it travels to the pituitary gland and binds to GHRH receptors on cells called somatotrophs. These are the cells that make and release growth hormone. The binding triggers a cascade of intracellular signals involving G proteins, cyclic

AMP, and protein kinases. The end result is that the somatotroph cells release growth hormone into the bloodstream.

That growth hormone then travels to the liver, where it stimulates the production of IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1). IGF-1 is responsible for many of the anabolic effects people associate with growth hormone, including muscle growth, fat loss, and tissue repair.

The Key Difference Between Versions

Natural GHRH has a half-life of only a few minutes. The body produces it in pulses, and it gets cleared quickly. This creates the natural rise-and-fall pattern of growth hormone throughout the day and night.

CJC-1295 without DAC behaves similarly. Its 30-minute to 2-hour half-life means it creates a sharp pulse of growth hormone release, then clears. This preserves the natural pulsatile pattern. You get a boost, then levels return to baseline.

CJC-1295 with DAC works differently. The DAC component allows the peptide to attach to albumin in the blood. Albumin is like a taxi that carries things around the bloodstream, and it protects whatever it carries from being broken down. With DAC attached, CJC-1295 stays active for 6 to 8 days.

This means CJC-1295 with DAC creates sustained elevation of growth hormone rather than pulses. GH levels stay elevated continuously instead of rising and falling. This is convenient because you only inject once or twice per week, but it is not how the body naturally operates.

Clinical Data

Human studies with CJC-1295 (with DAC) showed:

• A single injection increased growth hormone 2- to 10-fold above baseline
• Elevated GH persisted for 6 or more days
• IGF-1 increased 1.5- to 3-fold for 9 to 11 days
• Multiple doses caused IGF-1 to stay elevated for up to 28 days
• Cumulative effect with repeated dosing

Benefits

Increased Growth Hormone Production

The primary effect of both versions is higher growth hormone output. The with-DAC version creates sustained elevation. The without-DAC version creates higher peaks followed by a return to baseline. Both increase overall growth hormone exposure.

Muscle Growth and Recovery

Growth hormone and IGF-1 both support protein synthesis. Higher levels make it easier to build and maintain muscle tissue. Users report improved recovery between training sessions, reduced muscle soreness, and a better ability to add lean mass.

Fat Loss

Growth hormone promotes lipolysis, which is the breakdown of stored fat for energy. This effect is particularly noticeable in visceral fat (the fat around the organs). Studies on growth hormone secretagogues consistently show improvements in body composition with reduced fat mass.

Improved Sleep

GHRH has direct effects on sleep beyond its role in growth hormone release. Research shows that GHRH increases the duration and intensity of deep slow-wave sleep. Many users report falling asleep faster, sleeping more deeply, and waking up feeling more rested.

Tissue Repair and Recovery

Growth hormone stimulates collagen synthesis and cellular repair throughout the body. This can translate to faster healing from injuries, improved skin quality, and better joint health over time.

Bone Density

Long-term growth hormone optimization supports bone mineral density. This is particularly relevant for older adults experiencing age-related decline in both growth hormone and bone health.

What the Science Shows

CJC-1295 with DAC has been tested in human clinical trials. CJC-1295 without DAC has less direct human data but shares the same core mechanism.

Teichman et al. (2006) – Clinical Trials

Published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. Two randomized, placebo- controlled, double-blind trials studied CJC-1295 with DAC in healthy adults aged 21 to 61. Study 1: Single ascending dose trial over 28 days. Study 2: Multiple dose trial with weekly or biweekly injections over 49 days. Results:

• After a single injection: GH increased 2- to 10-fold for 6+ days
• After a single injection: IGF-1 increased 1.5- to 3-fold for 9 to 11 days
• Half-life estimated at 5.8 to 8.1 days
• After multiple doses: IGF-1 remained above baseline for up to 28 days
• Evidence of cumulative effect
• Well tolerated at doses of 30 or 60 mcg/kg
• No serious adverse reactions

Ionescu & Frohman (2006)

Published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. This study showed that CJC- 1295 preserves the natural pulsatile pattern of growth hormone secretion even during continuous stimulation. This was important because it suggested the peptide works with the body’s normal rhythm rather than overriding it.

Alba et al. (2006)

Published in the American Journal of Physiology. Studied CJC-1295 in mice lacking normal GHRH signaling. Once-daily administration normalized growth patterns. Animals treated every 24 hours reached normal body weight and length.

Clinical Development Note

CJC-1295 reached Phase 2 clinical trials for lipodystrophy (abnormal fat distribution) and growth hormone deficiency. Development was discontinued after one trial subject died. The attending physician concluded the death was likely caused by undiagnosed coronary artery disease unrelated to the peptide, but development was not resumed.

Dosing Protocol

Dosing differs significantly between the two versions because of their different half-lives.

CJC-1295 with DAC

The long half-life allows for infrequent dosing:

Dose Frequency Timing Cycle Length

1–2 mg per week Once or twice weekly No strict timing (long 8–12 weeks half-life)

Example protocol: 2 mg once weekly for 8 to 12 weeks. Some users split into two 1 mg doses (Sunday/Wednesday or Monday/Thursday) to maintain more consistent levels.

CJC-1295 without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29)

The short half-life requires daily dosing:

Dose Frequency Timing Schedule Cycle Length

100–300 mcg 1–3x daily Empty stomach; Daily 8–16 weeks before bed and/or morning

Example protocol: 100 to 200 mcg before bed, daily. CJC-1295 without DAC is usually combined with a growth hormone releasing peptide (GHRP) like ipamorelin for enhanced effect. The combination is the most common use case.

Important Dosing Notes

• For CJC-1295 without DAC: Take at least 2 hours after eating. Food, especially

carbohydrates, raises insulin and blunts the growth hormone response. Wait at least 30 minutes after injection before eating.

• For CJC-1295 with DAC: Dietary timing is less critical due to the sustained release, but

the same principles apply for optimal results.

• Daily dosing is the evidence-based approach for the without-DAC version. Acute

desensitization resolves in about 60 minutes between doses. Chronic desensitization develops around 16 weeks of continuous use and requires 4 weeks off to reverse. The “5 on, 2 off” protocol commonly seen online sits in a middle ground that addresses neither issue.

Draw Volumes by Vial Size

CJC-1295 with DAC – 5 mg Vial (2 mL reconstitution = 2.5 mg/mL)

Dose Volume Units on Syringe

0.5 mg 0.20 mL 20 units

1.0 mg 0.40 mL 40 units

1.5 mg 0.60 mL 60 units

2.0 mg 0.80 mL 80 units

Vial duration at 2 mg/week: approximately 2.5 weeks.

CJC-1295 without DAC – 2 mg Vial (2 mL reconstitution = 1 mg/mL)

Dose Volume Units on Syringe

100 mcg 0.10 mL 10 units

150 mcg 0.15 mL 15 units

200 mcg 0.20 mL 20 units

300 mcg 0.30 mL 30 units

Vial duration at 200 mcg/day: approximately 10 days.

CJC-1295 without DAC – 5 mg Vial (2 mL reconstitution = 2.5 mg/mL)

Dose Volume Units on Syringe

100 mcg 0.04 mL 4 units

150 mcg 0.06 mL 6 units

200 mcg 0.08 mL 8 units

300 mcg 0.12 mL 12 units

Vial duration at 200 mcg/day: approximately 3.5 weeks.

Reconstitution Instructions

Materials Needed:

• Peptide vial (lyophilized powder)
• Bacteriostatic water
• Sterile syringe for reconstitution
• Alcohol swabs

Instructions: 1. Wipe the vial stopper and bacteriostatic water vial with alcohol swabs. 2. Draw the chosen amount of bacteriostatic water (1 to 2 mL). 3. Insert the needle through the rubber stopper at an angle. 4. Let the water trickle down the inside wall of the vial slowly. 5. Do not inject directly onto the powder. 6. Swirl gently until fully dissolved (do not shake). 7. The solution should be clear. If cloudy or if it contains particles, do not use.

Side Effects and Cautions

Both versions of CJC-1295 are generally well tolerated. The with-DAC version may have more side effects because of its sustained activity.

Common Side Effects

• Injection site reactions (redness, irritation)
• Water retention
• Flushing or warmth after injection
• Tingling or numbness (transient)
• Headache

With-DAC Specific

• Side effects last longer and are harder to manage because of the long half-life
• Water retention may be more pronounced
• Receptor desensitization possible with continuous use

Without-DAC Specific

• Side effects clear quickly due to the short half-life
• Easier to adjust dosing if problems occur

Serious (Rare)

• Cardiovascular effects (flushing, transient hypotension)
• The FDA has raised concerns about potential immunogenicity with CJC-1295

Contraindications and Precautions

Do Not Use If You Have

• Active cancer or a history of cancer
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Known hypersensitivity to the peptide

Use with Caution

• Diabetes or prediabetes (monitor blood sugar)
• Cardiovascular disease
• History of carpal tunnel syndrome
• Liver or kidney disease

Drug Interactions

Growth hormone can affect insulin sensitivity. Monitor blood sugar if using diabetes medications. Glucocorticoids may blunt the growth hormone response.

Which Version Should You Use?

The choice between with-DAC and without-DAC depends on your goals and preferences.

Choose CJC-1295 with DAC If: Choose CJC-1295 without DAC If:

You want convenience (1–2 injections per week) You want to preserve natural pulsatile GH patterns

You prefer sustained GH elevation You prefer easier dose adjustment if side effects occur

You are focused on general anti-aging or recovery You plan to combine with a GHRP like ipamorelin

You are concerned about receptor desensitization

Many experts consider the without-DAC version (combined with ipamorelin) to be the better choice for long-term use because it works with the body’s natural rhythm rather than overriding it. The with-DAC version is more convenient but may carry a higher risk of side effects and desensitization.

Success Tips

Timing for CJC-1295 without DAC

Take on an empty stomach, at least 2 hours after eating. The best times are first thing in the morning (fasted) or right before bed. Food intake, especially carbohydrates, can significantly reduce the growth hormone response.

Combine with a GHRP (Without-DAC Version)

CJC-1295 without DAC works best when paired with a growth hormone releasing peptide like ipamorelin. The GHRP creates a sharp pulse that synergizes with the GHRH signal. Research shows this combination can produce 77% to 225% greater growth hormone release than either peptide alone.

Do Not Stack GHRH Analogs

Do not stack CJC-1295 with tesamorelin or sermorelin. All three are GHRH analogs that bind to the same receptors in the pituitary gland—same pathway, same mechanism. CJC-1295 is marketed for sleep and recovery while tesamorelin is marketed for visceral fat, but that is because they were studied differently, not because they do different things. Both were actually developed for the same condition: HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Stacking GHRH analogs is redundant and wastes money. Pick one and pair it with ipamorelin.

Stay Consistent

Growth hormone optimization works through cumulative effects. Run your protocol for at least 8 weeks before evaluating results. Inconsistent dosing reduces effectiveness.

Prioritize Sleep

Growth hormone naturally peaks during deep sleep. These peptides enhance that process, but you need quality sleep for them to work optimally. Aim for 7 to 9 hours per night in a dark, cool room.

Train and Eat for Your Goals

Higher growth hormone levels support muscle growth and fat loss, but you still need the training stimulus and proper nutrition to take advantage of it. Resistance training 3 to 4 times per week and adequate protein intake (0.8 to 1.0 grams per pound of body weight) are essential.

Storage and Handling

Before Reconstitution

• Store lyophilized (powder) vials in the freezer at −20°C (−4°F)
• Can also be stored in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F)
• Protect from light
• Do not use past the expiration date

After Reconstitution

• Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F)
• Use within 28 days
• Do not freeze after reconstitution
• Keep the stopper clean
• If the solution becomes cloudy or contains particles, discard it

Legal Status

United States: Neither version of CJC-1295 is FDA-approved for any medical use. Both are classified as research chemicals.

WADA Status: CJC-1295 (both versions) is prohibited at all times as a growth hormone releasing factor under World Anti-Doping Agency rules.

Competitive Athletes: Do not use if subject to drug testing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does DAC stand for? Drug Affinity Complex. It is a molecular addition that allows the peptide to bind to albumin in the blood, which extends its half-life from minutes to days.

Can I use CJC-1295 with DAC and without DAC together? This is not recommended. Using both creates unpredictable growth hormone patterns and increases the risk of desensitization.

How long until I see results? Sleep improvements often appear within 1 to 2 weeks. Body composition changes typically become noticeable at 6 to 8 weeks. Full effects develop over 3 to 6 months.

Is one version stronger than the other? Not exactly. The with-DAC version provides sustained elevation. The without-DAC version (especially with ipamorelin) can produce higher peaks. Total growth hormone exposure may be similar, but the pattern differs.

Why is CJC-1295 without DAC usually combined with ipamorelin? They work through different receptor pathways (GHRH receptor and ghrelin receptor) and have complementary timing. The combination produces more growth hormone than either alone and better mimics natural physiology.

Does CJC-1295 suppress natural growth hormone production? Unlike synthetic growth hormone injections, CJC-1295 stimulates the pituitary to produce its own growth hormone. It does not replace the hormone. Evidence suggests pituitary function remains intact with consistent use.

References

8. 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. 9. Ionescu M, Frohman LA. Pulsatile secretion of growth hormone (GH) persists during continuous stimulation by CJC-1295, a long-acting GH-releasing hormone analog. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2006;91(12):4792–4797. 10. 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;291(6):E1290– E1294.

Product Source

CJC-1295 (both with-DAC and without-DAC versions) is available as a research peptide from qualified peptide suppliers. When sourcing research-grade CJC-1295, ensure the supplier provides third-party testing, certificates of analysis (COA), and proper documentation of purity (typically ≥98%). CJC-1295 without DAC is commonly sold alongside ipamorelin for combination protocols. Always verify the legitimacy and quality standards of any peptide supplier.