How It Works
CJC-1295 is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), specifically a modified version of the first 29 amino acids of GHRH (known as GRF 1-29) with four amino acid substitutions to improve metabolic stability. It exists in two primary forms that have significantly different pharmacokinetic profiles.
CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) includes a maleimidopropionic acid linker that binds covalently to serum albumin after injection. This extends the half-life from minutes to approximately 6-8 days, creating sustained elevated GH and IGF-1 levels. Clinical trials have shown it produces a 2-10 fold increase in GH levels that persists for up to two weeks after a single injection.
CJC-1295 without DAC (Modified GRF 1-29 or Mod GRF) has a half-life of approximately 30 minutes and produces acute GH pulses that more closely mimic the body's natural pulsatile GH secretion pattern. This form is generally preferred in optimization protocols as it preserves the natural rhythm of GH release.
Both forms work by binding to GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotrophs. They are frequently combined with ghrelin mimetics like Ipamorelin for synergistic GH release through dual-pathway stimulation.
Benefits
- Significant and sustained elevation of GH and IGF-1 — demonstrated in clinical trials
- Improved body composition — increased lean mass and reduced body fat
- Enhanced recovery — accelerated tissue repair and reduced recovery time
- Anti-aging effects — improved skin quality, sleep quality, and energy levels
- Preserved pulsatile GH release (without DAC form) — more physiological than exogenous GH
- Synergistic when combined with Ipamorelin or other ghrelin mimetics
Side Effects
- Injection site reactions — redness, swelling, pain (common)
- Water retention — facial puffiness, peripheral edema, especially in early weeks
- Headache — reported in clinical trials, usually transient
- Flushing — warmth or redness after injection
- Numbness or tingling — paresthesia in extremities
- Joint stiffness — related to GH-mediated fluid retention
- Increased hunger — particularly with DAC form due to sustained GH elevation
- Monitor IGF-1 — chronic elevation may carry long-term risks
Dosing Protocol
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| With DAC | 1-2mg per injection, 1-2 times weekly |
| Without DAC (Mod GRF) | 100-200mcg per injection, 1-3 times daily |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection |
| Timing (no DAC) | Bedtime on empty stomach; or upon waking and post-workout |
| Cycle Length | 12-16 weeks on, 4 weeks off |
| Common Stack | Combined with Ipamorelin 100-200mcg at same injection times |
What You Will Need
- CJC-1295 lyophilized vial (with or without DAC, typically 2mg or 5mg)
- Bacteriostatic water (30mL)
- Insulin syringes (1mL, 29-31ga)
- Alcohol swabs
- Sharps container