CJC-1295
GHRH Analog (with DAC)
CJC-1295 is a GHRH analog that stimulates pituitary GH release. Limited human clinical data exists; it is not FDA-approved and is classified as a compounding safety concern.
Overview
CJC-1295 is a synthetic peptide analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It consists of the first 29 amino acids of GHRH with chemical modifications designed to extend its biological half-life. The most widely discussed form, CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex), incorporates a maleimido group that enables binding to serum albumin, extending its effective half-life to approximately six to eight days. A shorter-acting variant (sometimes called Mod GRF 1-29 or CJC-1295 without DAC) also exists.
CJC-1295 works by stimulating the pituitary gland to release growth hormone (GH), mimicking the natural signaling pathway used by the body's endogenous GHRH. It is not FDA-approved for any human indication and is classified by the FDA as a substance with safety concerns when used in compounding.
Research context
Published clinical data on CJC-1295 are limited but include a notable clinical study in healthy adults. A 2006 study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism demonstrated that subcutaneous CJC-1295 administration produced sustained, dose-dependent increases in GH and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-1) levels, with IGF-1 remaining elevated for up to 28 days following repeated dosing. Early-phase trials also evaluated CJC-1295 in the context of HIV-associated visceral obesity, though this program did not advance to registration.
CJC-1295 is frequently discussed in combination with ipamorelin (a growth hormone secretagogue), based on the hypothesis that targeting both the GHRH and ghrelin receptor pathways simultaneously could amplify GH release. However, controlled clinical trials evaluating the combination in healthy adults for body composition outcomes are lacking.
Safety and regulatory framing
FDA compounding safety concern; WADA prohibited; not approved for human use
CJC-1295 is not FDA-approved for any human use. The FDA has flagged it for safety concerns related to compounding, citing reported serious adverse events and concerns about immunogenicity and impurities. It is prohibited by WADA under the category of growth hormone releasing factors.
CJC-1295 is available through some research chemical suppliers, but these products are not manufactured under FDA-regulated conditions and are labeled for research use only. Quality, purity, and potency of such products are not guaranteed. Regulations vary internationally. Readers should consult a licensed healthcare provider before considering any unapproved substance.
References
- Teichman SL, et al. "Prolonged Stimulation of GH and IGF-I Secretion by CJC-1295 in Healthy Adults." J Clin Endocrinol Metab (2006) ↗Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
- ClinicalTrials.gov: CJC-1295 in HIV Patients With Visceral Obesity (NCT00267527) ↗ClinicalTrials.gov
- FDA Bulk Drug Substances — Compounding Safety Concerns ↗FDA.gov
- WADA Prohibited List — Growth Hormone Releasing Factors ↗WADA
Research information only
Peptide Daily is an informational resource only. Peptide research chemicals are not approved for human use by the FDA unless otherwise noted. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any peptide or research chemical.
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Keep exploring the research context
Ipamorelin
Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue that triggers pulsatile GH release without significant cortisol or prolactin elevation. Not FDA-approved; WADA-prohibited.
Sermorelin
Sermorelin (GHRH 1-29) was previously FDA-approved for pediatric GH deficiency and is now available through compounding. It stimulates pituitary GH release and has a longer clinical history than most research peptides.
Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin (Egrifta) is an FDA-approved GHRH analog indicated for HIV-associated lipodystrophy. It stimulates endogenous GH release and has Phase 3 trial data supporting its approved use.