CJC-1295 is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analogue peptide with 30 amino acids. Developed by ConjuChem Biotechnologies from Sermorelin, it has strategic modifications that confer resistance to DPP-4 degradation, extending its half-life from minutes to days. It exists in two forms: with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) that binds to endogenous albumin extending the half-life to 6-8 days, and without DAC (MOD-GRF 1-29) with a more physiological and pulsatile release.
Main Benefits:
• Growth hormone (GH) boost 2-10 times for 6+ days (single dose)
• Increase IGF-1 1.5-3x for 9-11 days
• Significant increase in lean muscle mass and protein synthesis
• Significant fat loss (especially visceral fat)
• Improved body composition
• Accelerated muscle recovery post-workout
• Improved sleep quality (increased REM sleep, reduced awakenings)
• Accelerates healing and recovery from injuries
• Increased collagen synthesis and connective tissue repair
• Promotes osteoblastic activity and bone formation
• Improved skin elasticity
• Increased energy and physical performance
• Improved insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
• Anti-aging properties (restoration of the GH/IGF-1 axis)
• Preservation of lean mass and immune defenses
Typical Dosages:
• CJC-1295 with CAD: 2 mg subcutaneously, 1-2 times per week (half-life ~8 days)
• CJC-1295 without DAC (MOD-GRF 1-29): 100-200 mcg, 1-2x per day
• Clinical Studies Dosage: 30-60 mcg/kg (well-tolerated doses)
• Administration: Subcutaneous injection (abdomen, thigh)
• Timing: Before bed (natural GH pulse), post-workout, fasting
• Cycles: 12-16 weeks ON, 4-6 weeks OFF
Mechanism of Action:
CJC-1295 selectively binds to and activates GHRH receptors on somatotrophs in the anterior pituitary, resulting in: adenylyl cyclase activation and cAMP production, PKA phosphorylation cascades, stimulation of GH gene transcription and protein synthesis, and pulsatile GH release mimicking natural physiological patterns. GH stimulates hepatic IGF-1 production, which mediates anabolic effects (muscle growth, tissue repair, metabolism).
Version with DAC: Binds covalently to serum albumin after injection, prolonging its presence in the bloodstream and allowing sustained release of GH for days.
Clinical Evidence:
• 2006 Study (healthy adults, 21-61 years): Single dose increased GH 2-10x for 6+ days, IGF-1 1.5-3x for 9-11 days. Safe and well tolerated at doses of 30-60 mcg/kg
• Multiple doses: Elevated IGF-1 for up to 28 days, evidence of a cumulative effect.
• Studies from 2006 and 2013: Small weekly doses (30-90 mcg) increased minimal and moderate GH secretion with sustained pulsatility.
• GHRH Knockout Rats: Daily administration normalized growth, body weight, length, body composition, lean mass, and subcutaneous fat.
• Phase II Clinical Trials: Investigation into lipodystrophy and GH deficiency (discontinued after participant death, likely unrelated)
Expected Results:
• Weeks 1-4: Improved sleep quality, recovery, slight increase in energy.
• Months 1-2: Noticeable changes in muscle tone, strength, and fat loss.
• Months 3+: Defined muscle growth, improved skin elasticity, performance benefits
Classic Combination: CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin
• Complementary mechanisms: CJC-1295 (sustained/tortoise) + Ipamorelin (immediate/hare)
• Amplification of GH release through different pathways
• Ipamorelin: 100-300 mcg per injection, same frequency
• No increase in cortisol/prolactin (Ipamorelin is selective)
• Synergy for muscle growth, fat loss, and recovery
Other Combinations:
• CJC-1295 + Tesamorelin (visceral fat loss)
• CJC-1295 + MOTS-c (metabolism + mitochondria)
• With supplements: Whey protein, BCAAs, lean carbohydrates, DHEA, ZMT (sleep/testosterone)
Side Effects:
Generally well tolerated, with mild to moderate side effects.
Common:
• Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, irritation)
• Water retention (temporary swelling)
• Headache
• Flushing or dizziness (immediately after injection, temporary)
Related to GH (high doses/prolonged use):
• Joint pain and stiffness (especially wrists and fingers)
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Insulin resistance (changes in blood glucose levels)
• Vertigo (rare, high doses or beginners)
Contraindications:
• Active cancer or history of malignant tumors
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Asymptomatic coronary artery disease
Legal Status:
• FDA: NOT APPROVED for human use
• Therapeutic use: Completely off-label
• Development discontinued in Phase II (participant death, likely unrelated)
• Available through research peptide suppliers
• Requires medical supervision.
Administration:
• Reconstitution: Lyophilized powder + bacteriostatic water
• Route: Subcutaneous in areas with fat
• Rotate injection sites
• Essential clean technique
• Storage after reconstituting: Refrigeration
Unique Features:
• Long-acting GHRH analog (vs. native GHRH minutes)
• Amino acid modifications eliminate DPP-4 cleavage.
• Preserves GHRH receptor binding affinity
• DAC Version: Albumin bioconjugation prolongs action
• Sustained vs. pulsatile release (with/without DAC)
• Increases GH by 200-1000% (levels maintained for 6+ days)
• Stimulates somatotropic cell proliferation (↑pituitary RNA, ↑GH mRNA)
Ideal Candidates:
• Growth hormone deficiency
• Objectives: body composition (muscle/fat)
• Athletes and bodybuilders (performance, recovery)
• Anti-aging and longevity
• Improved sleep quality
• Injury recovery
Important Note: CJC-1295 is a potent peptide with robust clinical evidence for sustained GH and IGF-1 increases. Particularly effective when combined with Ipamorelin. NOT FDA approved, off-label use is experimental. Long-term safety data is lacking. Requires strict medical supervision, appropriate cycling, and monitoring. Rotate injection sites and use clean technique.