CJC-1295

What it is

CJC-1295 is a synthetic analog of Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH). It was originally developed by ConjuChem to treat lipodystrophy (abnormal fat distribution) and growth hormone deficiencies. Its primary innovation was the addition of a "Drug Affinity Complex" (DAC), which allows the peptide to stay active in the body for much longer than natural GHRH.

In the research community, you will often see two versions: "CJC-1295 with DAC" and "CJC-1295 without DAC" (also known as Mod GRF 1-29). The version without DAC has a much shorter half-life, meaning it clears the system quickly, whereas the DAC version can remain active for over a week.

What it does

CJC-1295 works by stimulating the pituitary gland to produce and secrete growth hormone. Unlike Ipamorelin, which mimics ghrelin, CJC-1295 acts like the "gas pedal" (GHRH) for growth hormone production. When the two are used together in research, they create a synergistic effect—one increases the number of GH pulses, while the other increases the strength of those pulses.

Users investigate CJC-1295 for its potential to improve skin elasticity, increase lean muscle mass, and speed up recovery from intense physical activity. Because the "with DAC" version provides a steady elevation of GH levels rather than a quick spike, it is often studied for its effects on overall metabolic health and long-term vitality.

What the evidence says

Clinical trials for CJC-1295 have shown that it is effective at increasing both growth hormone (GH) and Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) levels in humans. In early studies, healthy subjects showed a significant increase in GH levels with relatively few serious adverse events.

However, development for medical use was halted after a patient in a Phase 2 trial suffered a myocardial infarction, although it was never conclusively proven that the peptide was the cause. Today, most of the data we rely on comes from these older clinical archives and more recent independent research in the longevity and performance sectors.

What it costs

CJC-1295 is usually priced between $45 and $80 per 5mg vial. If using the version without DAC (Mod GRF), the monthly outlay is typically $150 to $300, as it requires more frequent administration. The DAC version may cost more per vial but is used less frequently.

Side effects and risks

The most common side effect is a "flush"—a temporary warming and reddening of the face and neck—which usually lasts about 10–20 minutes. Other reported effects include water retention, joint pain, and injection site irritation. Because it elevates IGF-1, there are long-term concerns about potential tumor promotion and insulin resistance.

CJC-1295 was reviewed by the PCAC in December 2024 and rejected for 503A inclusion. It was not part of the April 2026 reevaluation, so the FDA continues to restrict its use in compounding pharmacies. It is legally available only for research and laboratory use in the US.

Where users source it

Users typically source CJC-1295 from research supply companies. Because purity is critical for long-term research, we advise looking for suppliers that use mass spectrometry to verify their batches. Always ensure the product is stored away from direct light and heat, as GHRH analogs are notoriously fragile.

Sources

• Teichman SL, et al. (2006). "Prolonged stimulation of growth hormone secretion by CJC-1295." Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. PMID 16352683
• ProPublica. (April 2026). "An FDA Reversal on Peptides..."
• Get Peptide Clarity. (April 2026). Regulatory Tracker.