CJC-1295: What It Is, What the Research Says, and What You Need to Know
A modified GHRH analog designed for sustained growth hormone release
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Educational purposes only. The information on this page is for educational and research purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Research peptides are not FDA-approved for human therapeutic use unless explicitly stated. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before using any compound.
What Is CJC-1295?
CJC-1295 is a modified version of the first 29 amino acids of Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH) — the hormone your hypothalamus naturally uses to signal the pituitary to release growth hormone.
The key modification is the Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) — a chemical addition that allows the peptide to bind to albumin (a blood protein), dramatically extending its half-life from roughly 7 minutes to approximately 7–8 days.
This extended half-life means CJC-1295 stimulates sustained, elevated GH and IGF-1 levels rather than a brief pulse — which is its main distinguishing feature.
What Does the Research Say?
- Phase 1 and 2 clinical trials showed CJC-1295 significantly increased serum GH levels (2 to 10-fold) in healthy adults.
- Studies show dose-dependent increases in IGF-1 levels lasting several weeks after a single injection.
- Research suggests sustained GH elevation improves body composition (reduced fat, increased lean mass) in clinical settings.
- No large-scale phase 3 trials have been completed.
Research context: Animal studies showing positive effects do not guarantee the same results in humans. Human evidence strength varies significantly by peptide — see the Quick Stats sidebar for details.
Common Use Cases in Research
These reflect how researchers and research communities discuss this compound — not therapeutic recommendations.
- Growth hormone optimization research
- Body composition improvement
- Anti-aging protocols
- Muscle recovery enhancement
How It Works (Mechanism of Action)
Binds to GHRH receptors in the pituitary gland, stimulating pulsatile GH release. The DAC modification allows it to bind to albumin in the blood, extending its half-life from minutes to approximately 7–8 days.
Reported Benefits & Risks
Reported Benefits
Reported Risks
What People Ask
What is the difference between CJC-1295 with DAC and without DAC?
CJC-1295 with DAC has a half-life of 7–8 days, creating sustained GH elevation. Without DAC (sometimes called Modified GRF 1-29), the half-life is only 30 minutes, creating a GH pulse similar to natural patterns.
Why do people stack CJC-1295 with Ipamorelin?
The combination targets two different pathways of GH release simultaneously. CJC-1295 stimulates GHRH receptors while Ipamorelin stimulates ghrelin receptors — together producing a larger GH release than either alone.
Legal & Regulatory Status
Research Only
Research use only. Not FDA-approved for human use.
Research Suppliers
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View CJC-1295 Research Suppliers (affiliate link)