CJC1295
(GHRH)
CJC-1295 is a growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH) analog, designed to increase the secretion of growth hormone (GH) and, consequently, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). It exists in two main forms: CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) and Mod GRF 1-29 (also called CJC-1295 without DAC). The DAC version has a longer half-life (~5–8 days), allowing for weekly or biweekly injections, while Mod GRF 1-29 mimics natural pulsatile GH release with a much shorter half-life (~30 minutes). CJC-1295 binds to albumin and resists enzymatic degradation, enabling sustained GH elevation without continuous stimulation of the pituitary, reducing the risk of desensitization.
When paired with a GHRP (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide) such as Ipamorelin or GHRP-2, CJC-1295 synergistically amplifies GH pulses, leading to increased fat metabolism, lean muscle growth, recovery speed, sleep quality, and improved skin and connective tissue integrity. It acts upstream in the GH/IGF-1 axis, promoting a more natural GH release cycle compared to exogenous GH, which can suppress endogenous production. CJC-1295 is frequently used in anti-aging, body recomposition, and healing protocols, with dosing typically ranging from 1–2 mg once or twice weekly (DAC version) or 100–200 mcg per dose, 1–3x daily (Mod GRF 1-29, often alongside a GHRP).
Protocols
1. Muscle Growth & Strength Enhancement (Athletes & Bodybuilders)
Dosage:
CJC-1295 w/o DAC: 100 mcg 2–3x daily (subcutaneously)
CJC-1295 with DAC: 2 mg once or twice per week (SC)
Cycle: Continuous use for 8–12 weeks, followed by a 4-week break
Administration: Best taken before bed or post-workout for GH pulse optimization
Stacking:
With Ipamorelin for enhanced GH release
With IGF-1 LR3 for muscle hypertrophy
With BPC-157 & TB-500 for recovery
Expected Benefits:
Increased lean muscle mass
Enhanced muscle recovery and protein synthesis
Strength and performance gains
2. Fat Loss & Metabolic Optimization
Dosage:
CJC-1295 w/o DAC: 100 mcg 2–3x daily
CJC-1295 with DAC: 2 mg once per week
Cycle: 12-week cycle with a 4-week break
Administration:
Best injected on an empty stomach (e.g., morning or pre-bedtime)
Stacking:
With Tesamorelin for enhanced fat-burning effects
With MOTS-c to improve mitochondrial function and metabolic rate
Expected Benefits:
Increased fat oxidation
Better body composition
Improved energy and endurance
3. Anti-Aging & Longevity (GH Optimization for Wellness)
Dosage:
CJC-1295 w/o DAC: 100 mcg before bed
CJC-1295 with DAC: 2 mg once per week
Cycle: Continuous use for 6 months, followed by a 2-month break
Administration: Nighttime dosing preferred to align with natural GH pulses
Stacking:
With Epitalon for longevity and telomere health
With GHK-Cu for skin and tissue regeneration
Expected Benefits:
Better sleep and recovery
Increased skin elasticity and collagen production
Improved cognitive function and energy levels
4. Injury Recovery & Tissue Repair
Dosage:
CJC-1295 w/o DAC: 100 mcg 3x daily
CJC-1295 with DAC: 2 mg weekly
Cycle: 8-week cycle with a 4-week break
Administration: Best injected pre-bedtime for optimized healing
Stacking:
With BPC-157 & TB-500 for soft tissue and ligament repair
With GHK-Cu for wound healing and skin regeneration
Expected Benefits:
Faster muscle and joint recovery
Reduced inflammation
Enhanced collagen synthesis for tendon and ligament repair
Further reading
The physiological rationale behind CJC-1295 centers on pulsatile GH secretion, which is critical for mimicking the body’s natural rhythm. Chronic exposure to elevated GH—as seen with exogenous GH injections—can lead to IGF-1 receptor desensitization, insulin resistance, and soft tissue overgrowth. By using CJC-1295, especially the Mod GRF 1-29 variant in short, intermittent pulses, users can avoid these pitfalls while still enjoying the anabolic and reparative benefits of higher GH and IGF-1 levels. This supports muscle protein synthesis, enhances lipolysis, and promotes joint/tendon healing, particularly when combined with synergistic agents like BPC-157, TB-500, or IGF-1 LR3.
Additionally, CJC-1295 has been shown to improve sleep architecture, especially deep wave (slow-wave) sleep, which is tightly linked to GH secretion. Many users report improved recovery, energy, and fat loss within weeks of consistent dosing, though optimal results often require a minimum of 8–12 weeks. Importantly, CJC-1295’s safety profile appears favorable, with no serious adverse events in human trials, and a lower likelihood of causing water retention, carpal tunnel, or insulin resistance compared to synthetic GH. It is increasingly studied in longevity and endocrine research for its ability to restore youthful GH output without pharmacological overdose.
References
- Teichman SL et al. (2006). 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. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 79(6): 557–565.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clpt.2006.02.006
Walker RF. (2010). Clinical applications of growth hormone secretagogues. Growth Hormone & IGF Research, 20(3): 129–136.
Ghigo E et al. (2005). Pharmacological stimulation of GH secretion: Physiological basis and clinical implication. Neuroendocrinology, 82(5-6): 277–287.
Holloway AC et al. (2005). Modulation of growth hormone release and downstream effects by CJC-1295 with and without DAC. Journal of Endocrinological Investigation.