CJC-1295 (no DAC) // GHRH Analog
A modified version of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) with four amino acid substitutions for improved half-life and receptor binding. CJC-1295 (no DAC) stimulates pulsatile GH release that mimics natural physiology — the body's own rhythm of GH secretion rather than a constant flat-line elevation. Almost universally paired with Ipamorelin for synergistic GH amplification.
Your pituitary's native language — amplified.
CJC-1295 (no DAC) works by binding to the GHRH receptor on anterior pituitary somatotrophs — the same receptor that your body's natural GHRH activates. The four amino acid substitutions (Ala2, Glu8, Ala15, Leu27) protect it from enzymatic degradation, extending the signaling window from seconds to approximately 30 minutes. This produces a robust but pulsatile GH release that preserves the body's natural feedback mechanisms.
Timing is the protocol.
CJC-1295 (no DAC) has a short active window (~30 minutes), which means timing matters. The most effective protocols dose before bed (to amplify the natural nocturnal GH pulse), upon waking (fasted), and optionally post-workout. Pair with Ipamorelin at each injection for the GHRH + GHRP synergy that produces multiplicative GH output. Always inject on an empty stomach — food (especially carbs and fats) blunts GH release.
The most-studied GHRH analog in the peptide community.
Modified GRF 1-29 (CJC-1295 without DAC) was developed to address the extremely short half-life of natural GHRH (which is degraded in seconds by DPP-IV enzymes). The four strategic amino acid substitutions provide enzymatic resistance while maintaining full receptor binding affinity and selectivity.
Pharmacokinetic studies show a 3–5 fold increase in GH output per pulse compared to natural GHRH signaling. When combined with a GHRP (like Ipamorelin), the synergy produces GH output that exceeds either compound alone — the GHRH signal tells the pituitary to make GH, while the GHRP signal tells it to release what it's made.
Community-reported benefits at 8–16 week protocols include improved sleep quality, accelerated recovery, reduced body fat (particularly visceral), improved skin quality, and enhanced exercise capacity. IGF-1 levels typically rise 30–60% above baseline within 4–6 weeks.
CJC-1295 (no DAC) vs. other GH secretagogues.
| Compound | Type | Half-Life | GH Pattern | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CJC-1295 (no DAC) | GHRH analog | ~30 min | Pulsatile (physiological) | Gold standard daily protocol |
| CJC-1295 (DAC) | GHRH analog | ~6–8 days | Continuous (elevated baseline) | Weekly convenience |
| Sermorelin | GHRH analog | ~10–20 min | Pulsatile (shorter) | Anti-aging clinics (FDA diag.) |
| Ipamorelin | GHRP | ~2 hours | Pulsatile (release signal) | Paired with CJC-1295 |
| MK-677 | Ghrelin mimetic | ~24 hours | Continuous oral | Convenience (no injection) |
| Tesamorelin | GHRH analog | ~26 min | Pulsatile | FDA-approved (lipodystrophy) |
What to watch for.
CJC-1295 (no DAC)'s side effect profile is manageable with proper protocol adherence. Baseline blood work before starting and periodic monitoring during use is essential.
- Flushing and warmth after injection (GHRH response, normal)
- Water retention (GH-mediated, resolves with dose adjustment)
- Tingling in extremities (carpal tunnel-like, GH effect)
- Increased hunger (GH can stimulate appetite)
- Vivid dreams (improved sleep architecture)
- Headache (rare, usually first week)
- Joint stiffness (at higher GH output — reduce dose if persistent)
- No suppression of natural GH production (pituitary stimulation, not replacement)
- IGF-1 (primary efficacy marker — test at baseline and 6 weeks)
- GH serum (fasting, morning draw)
- Fasting glucose and insulin (GH affects glucose metabolism)
- HbA1c (long-term glucose impact)
- Thyroid panel (GH can affect T3/T4 conversion)
- Cortisol (morning, to rule out adrenal impact)
- CBC (baseline monitoring)
- CMP (liver and kidney function)
- Ipamorelin is the standard pairing — GHRH + GHRP synergy
- BPC-157 / TB-500 for enhanced recovery stack
- DSIP for sleep optimization (GH is released during deep sleep)
- Inject on empty stomach — carbs/fats blunt GH release
- Do NOT combine with exogenous GH (redundant, suppressive)
- Fasted cardio after morning dose may enhance fat oxidation
- Lyophilized: refrigerate at 2–8°C (36–46°F)
- Reconstituted: refrigerate, use within 28–30 days
- Protect from light and heat
- Do not freeze reconstituted solution
- Can be pre-loaded in syringes and refrigerated (3–5 day max)
- Research grade: confirm ≥98% HPLC purity on COA
Compounds that complement CJC-1295 (no DAC).
The foundation of every serious GH optimization protocol.
CJC-1295 (no DAC) paired with Ipamorelin is the most validated GH secretagogue protocol in the peptide community — and for good reason. It preserves pulsatile GH physiology, has a clean side effect profile, doesn't suppress natural production, and produces measurable IGF-1 elevation within weeks. The key is timing: inject on an empty stomach, prioritize the bedtime dose (to amplify the nocturnal GH pulse), and pair with Ipamorelin for the GHRH + GHRP synergy. Get IGF-1 and fasting glucose tested at baseline and 6 weeks. If you're running one GH protocol, this is it.
Our free Protocol Guide includes the complete GH Optimization Stack with CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin — timing protocols, dose calculators, blood work panels, and stacking recommendations.