CJC-1295
CJC-1295 (Modified GRF 1-29)
CJC-1295 (also known as Modified GRF 1-29 or Mod GRF 1-29) is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) engineered with Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) technology to extend its half-life from minutes to approximately 6-8 days. It is primarily used in research and performance contexts to stimulate pulsatile growth hormone secretion, promote lean muscle accrual, reduce body fat, and improve recovery. It is commonly co-administered with a GHRP (such as Ipamorelin) to synergistically amplify GH release.
Mechanism of Action
CJC-1295 binds to and activates the GHRH receptor (GHRHR) on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary, stimulating the synthesis and pulsatile release of endogenous growth hormone. The DAC modification allows the peptide to covalently bind to serum albumin via a maleimide-lysine linkage, dramatically extending its circulating half-life and enabling sustained receptor stimulation over days rather than minutes. Elevated GH subsequently triggers hepatic IGF-1 production, which mediates downstream anabolic, lipolytic, and tissue-repair effects.
Evidence by Health Goal(11 goals)
Dosing Protocols
Any consistent time of day; some prefer evening to align with natural nocturnal GH pulses
Cycle: 8-12 weeks on, 4 weeks off
Subcutaneous injection into abdominal fat is most common. Often stacked with a GHRP (e.g., Ipamorelin 100-300mcg 2-3x daily) for synergistic GH release. Due to the DAC modification and long half-life, once-weekly dosing is sufficient and preferred over daily administration. Rotate injection sites to minimize local reactions.
Safety & Side Effects
CJC-1295 has a relatively favorable short-term safety profile in research settings, with most adverse effects being mild and transient; however, long-term safety data in humans is limited and it is not approved by the FDA for human use. It should be used with caution in individuals with active malignancies, diabetic retinopathy, or significant insulin resistance, as chronically elevated GH and IGF-1 may promote cell proliferation and worsen glucose metabolism.
Possible Side Effects
- !Injection site redness, swelling, or irritation (most common with subcutaneous dosing)
- !Water retention and transient peripheral edema, particularly in hands and feet
- !Flushing and sensation of skin warmth within 30-60 minutes of injection
- !Fatigue or lethargy in the days following injection as GH peaks and normalizes
- !Increased hunger and appetite stimulation
- !Headache or mild dizziness, typically transient
- !Potential for HPA axis desensitization or blunted GH response with prolonged continuous use
- !Numbness or tingling (paresthesia) in extremities, associated with elevated IGF-1 levels
Interactions
- -May worsen insulin resistance and hyperglycemia - use with caution alongside insulin or oral antidiabetic agents and monitor blood glucose closely
- -Additive GH-stimulating effects when combined with GHRPs (e.g., Ipamorelin, GHRP-2, GHRP-6) - considered beneficial synergy but increases risk of GH-related side effects
- -Glucocorticoids (e.g., prednisone) may blunt or antagonize GH secretory response, reducing peptide efficacy
- -Thyroid hormone replacement may alter GH/IGF-1 axis sensitivity; hypothyroid individuals may have suboptimal response
- -Concurrent use with exogenous HGH is generally redundant and significantly increases risk of elevated IGF-1-related adverse effects including acromegalic symptoms
Cost & Where to Buy
Typically sold as lyophilized powder in 2mg vials from research peptide vendors; monthly cost at 1mg/week requires approximately 4-5mg per month. Bacteriostatic water for reconstitution is an additional minor cost (~$5-10). Pricing varies significantly by vendor purity, third-party testing, and country of purchase. Not available as a licensed pharmaceutical in most markets.
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