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Growth hormone

CJC-1295 with DAC, explained simply

Long-acting growth hormone releaser that works around the clock to boost your body's natural GH production with just one or two injections per week.

Some human studiesInjection under the skin (like insulin shots)6 cited sourcesResearch compound — not FDA approved

Start here

What is CJC-1295 with DAC?

CJC-1295 with DAC is a long-acting, lab-made version of GHRH, the hormone that tells the pituitary (the master hormone gland at the base of the brain) gland to release growth hormone. Its DAC attachment lets it bind to blood proteins and stay active for days, so one or two injections a week keep growth hormone output elevated around the clock. It has been through early human trials (Phase 1-2) but is a research compound, not FDA approved.

How it works in your body

Your pituitary (the master hormone gland at the base of the brain) gland naturally releases growth hormone in pulses throughout the day, especially during deep sleep. CJC-1295 with DAC is a modified version of the natural hormone (GHRH) that tells your pituitary to release more GH. The special DAC attachment lets it stick to proteins in your blood, keeping it active for days instead of minutes. This means your body gets a gentle, sustained signal to produce more growth hormone around the clock, rather than brief spikes.

The deeper mechanism, for the curious

CJC-1295 DAC is a lab-made copy of GHRH 1-29 (growth hormone-releasing hormone, the brain signal that tells the pituitary (the master hormone gland at the base of the brain) gland to release growth hormone), changed at four amino acids (Ala2, Gln8, Ala15, Leu27) so the enzyme DPP-IV, which normally chops up GHRH, breaks it down more slowly. The Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) is an added chemical tag (a maleimidopropionyl lysine group) at the end of the peptide. In the body it permanently attaches to the Cys34 spot on serum albumin (the main protein carried in blood). This stretches the half-life (the time for half the drug to leave the body) from minutes for natural GHRH to 5.8-8.1 days. The drug switches on GHRH receptors (GHRHR) on somatotroph cells (growth-hormone-making cells) in the anterior pituitary (the front part of the pituitary gland at the base of the brain). This activates the Gs protein and adenylyl cyclase (an enzyme), raises intracellular cAMP (an internal messenger), and boosts growth hormone gene activity and release. The steady activation keeps growth hormone raised and then raises IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) made by the liver. This steady pattern differs from the body's natural pulses of growth hormone, and may cause receptor downregulation (receptors becoming less responsive) with long-term use.

Evidence check

Some human studies

It has been tested in people, but only in small or early-stage studies. Promising, but not yet proven the way an approved medicine is.

Every numbered marker on this page links to one of the 6 sources at the bottom.

92/100

Higher growth hormone (GH)

Sustained growth hormone increase lasting 6-8 days per injection with clinically documented 2-10 fold elevation

95/100

Convenience

Once or twice weekly dosing compared to daily injections required by shorter-acting peptides

88/100

Recovery Support

Enhanced workout recovery and improved sleep quality through sustained IGF-1 elevation

What the research points to

  • Keeps growth hormone levels raised for days at a time
  • More IGF-1 (a growth signal made in the liver) for better muscle growth and recovery
  • Convenient dosing schedule with long-lasting effects
  • Supports fat loss by improving metabolism
  • Promotes deeper, more restorative sleep
  • May help preserve muscle mass while eating fewer calories

The most-asked question

How much CJC-1295 with DAC do I take?

The research-reported range is 2 mg, twice weekly. Studies used different doses for different situations — find yours:

  1. First-time users, Convenient weekly dosing

    1 mg (1000 mcg)

    • How often
      Once weekly
    • For how long
      2-4 weeks
    • How
      Injection under the skin

    A starting dose used in practice. The DAC version is long-acting (about a 6-8 day half-life (how long it stays active in your body)), so weekly dosing keeps growth hormone and IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) raised. In the Phase 1 trial a single dose raised GH for 6+ days and IGF-1 for up to 11 days. 2

  2. Body composition, Recovery

    2 mg (2000 mcg)

    • How often
      Once weekly (or split twice weekly)
    • For how long
      8-12 weeks
    • How
      Injection under the skin

    The common maintenance dose, roughly in line with the 30-60 mcg/kg weekly range studied in the Phase 1 trial. 12 In the ascending-dose trials, single injections raised mean GH 2- to 10-fold for six or more days and IGF-I 1.5- to 3-fold for 9-11 days; 30 and 60 µg/kg doses were the best tolerated 2.

  3. Experienced users, Higher GH/IGF-1 elevation

    2 mg per dose

    • How often
      Twice weekly
    • For how long
      8-12 weeks
    • How
      Injection under the skin

    A higher total weekly amount split into two doses, used by experienced users; near the top of the 30-60 mcg/kg weekly range from the clinical study. 2

Adjusting your dose

You're at the right dose if…

  • Improved sleep quality and waking refreshed
  • Better workout recovery within 24-48 hours
  • Gradual improvements in body composition
  • No significant water retention or discomfort

Consider going up if…

  • Tolerating current dose well with no significant side effects
  • Not seeing expected improvements after 4-6 weeks
  • IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) blood levels remain in low-normal range
  • Recovery and sleep benefits are minimal

Go down if…

  • Experiencing significant water retention or bloating
  • Joint pain or carpal tunnel symptoms appear
  • Feeling excessively tired or lethargic
  • Blood glucose levels becoming elevated

The ceiling: 2000 mcg (2 mg) twice weekly

Reconstitution, in plain words

How do I mix CJC-1295 with DAC?

Peptides usually arrive as a freeze-dried powder in a small vial. “Reconstitution” just means adding sterile water back in so you can measure a dose. Here's how it works for CJC-1295 with DAC:

What you need

  • Bacteriostatic water (BAC water)
  • Insulin syringe (29-31 gauge)
  • Alcohol swabs
  • Sterile vial of CJC-1295 DAC powder

A worked example

2mg vial + 2mL BAC water = 1mg/mL (1000mcg/mL). Each 0.1mL (10 units) = 100mcg

Working out your dose

For 1000mcg dose at 1mg/mL concentration: draw 1.0mL (100 units on insulin syringe). For 2000mcg: draw from two vials or use a higher concentration.

Or let the calculator do it

Three quick questions — your vial, your water, your dose — and it tells you the exact syringe mark. “Find dose amount” is preloaded with CJC-1295 with DAC's recorded schedule.

CJC-1295 with DACOnce weekly

How much peptide is in your bottle?

Look at the label on the vial. It’s the number next to the unit — like "5 mg". Labeled in IU? Switch the unit to IU.

Type a number to continue.
0

Injection sites & technique

Where do I inject CJC-1295 with DAC?

The best spots

  • Abdomen (2 inches away from navel)
  • Front or outer thigh
  • Back of upper arm
  • Lower back / love handle area

How to do it, step by step

  • Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and allow to dry completely
  • Pinch a fold of skin between your thumb and forefinger
  • Insert the needle at a 45-90 degree angle (depending on body fat)
  • Inject the solution slowly and steadily
  • Release the skin fold and withdraw the needle
  • Apply light pressure if needed - do not rub the area

Injection under the skin

Timing

When do I take CJC-1295 with DAC?

Best time of day

Evening before bed or in the morning on an empty stomach. The extended half-life (how long it stays active in your body) means timing is less critical than with shorter-acting peptides.

With or without food?

Best taken on an empty stomach or at least 2-3 hours after eating. Fats and carbohydrates can blunt the GH response.

Taking it with other peptides

If combining with a GHRP like Ipamorelin, inject them together at the same time. The synergistic effect amplifies the GH pulse significantly.

The honest list

What side effects could CJC-1295 with DAC cause?

Common — usually mild

These show up most often. They usually fade as your body adjusts.

  • Injection site reactions

    Redness, swelling, itching, or mild pain at injection site

    What to do Rotate injection sites, apply ice before injection, ensure proper technique

  • Water retention

    Mild bloating or puffiness, especially in hands and feet

    What to do Reduce sodium intake, stay well hydrated, consider reducing dose if significant

  • Flushing

    Temporary warmth or redness of skin, particularly face

    What to do Usually subsides within 15-30 minutes, more common at higher doses

  • Tingling sensation

    Pins and needles feeling, especially in hands

    What to do Usually temporary, may indicate elevated GH - reduce dose if persistent

Less common

Worth knowing about, but most people never see these.

  • Headaches

    Mild to moderate headaches, often in first few weeks

    What to do Stay hydrated, take acetaminophen if needed, usually diminishes with continued use

  • Fatigue or lethargy

    Some users feel tired initially as body adjusts

    What to do Ensure adequate sleep, adjust dose if severe, typically improves over time

  • Joint discomfort

    Mild joint aches, particularly in wrists or ankles

    What to do May indicate water retention in joints - reduce dose, ensure adequate hydration

Serious — stop and get medical help

Rare, but if any of these happen, stop and contact a medical professional.

  • Carpal tunnel symptoms (wrist numbness and tingling)

    Numbness, tingling, weakness in hands from nerve compression

    What to do Stop use and consult healthcare provider - usually resolves after discontinuation

  • Higher blood sugar (glucose)

    GH can increase blood sugar levels in some individuals

    What to do Monitor blood glucose, especially if diabetic or pre-diabetic - may need dose adjustment

Week by week

What should I expect from CJC-1295 with DAC, and when?

  1. Week 1-2

    You might notice
    • Mild injection site reactions (normal and temporary)
    • Possible water retention or slight bloating
    • May notice improved sleep quality beginning
    • Some users feel slight fatigue as body adjusts
    • Subtle increase in hunger in some individuals
    What's normal
    • Side effects like flushing or tingling are common and usually mild
    • Benefits are subtle at first - GH builds up over time
    • Sleep improvements are often the first noticeable effect
    What's next
    • Continue consistent dosing schedule
    • Track sleep quality and recovery between workouts
    • Note any side effects to discuss with provider if needed

  2. Week 3-4

    You might notice
    • Improved sleep quality becomes more consistent
    • Better recovery after workouts
    • Skin may start looking healthier or more hydrated
    • Water retention typically stabilizes or decreases
    • Energy levels may begin improving
    What's normal
    • IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) levels are building in your system
    • Body composition changes are starting but may not be visible yet
    • Side effects often diminish as body adapts
    What's next
    • Consider increasing to standard twice-weekly dosing if not already
    • Continue monitoring how you feel and recover
    • Maintain consistent injection schedule

  3. Week 5-8

    You might notice
    • More noticeable improvements in recovery time
    • Possible visible changes in body composition
    • Improved skin elasticity and appearance
    • Consistent deeper sleep and waking refreshed
    • Better performance in workouts
    • Some fat loss, especially in stubborn areas
    What's normal
    • Full effects are becoming established
    • Growth hormone and IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) levels are holding at a steady, raised level
    • Body has typically adapted to the peptide
    What's next
    • Continue current protocol if working well
    • Consider lab work to check IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) levels
    • Assess whether dose adjustment is needed

  4. Week 9-12+

    You might notice
    • Sustained improvements in body composition
    • Continued enhanced recovery and performance
    • Maintained improvements in sleep and energy
    • Possible continued gradual fat loss
    • Overall sense of improved well-being and vitality
    What's normal
    • Benefits are cumulative and continue to build
    • Some users plateau and may benefit from a break
    • Results vary based on diet, exercise, and individual response
    What's next
    • Consider a 4-8 week break after 12 weeks to prevent desensitization
    • Reassess goals and whether to continue another cycle
    • Maintain healthy lifestyle habits to preserve gains

How to tell it's actually working

Sleep and Recovery

  • Falling asleep faster and sleeping more deeply
  • Waking up feeling more refreshed and energized
  • Reduced muscle soreness after intense workouts
  • Faster recovery between training sessions
  • More vivid dreams (indicates deeper REM sleep)

Muscle and fat balance

  • Gradual reduction in body fat, especially abdominal area
  • Increased muscle fullness and definition
  • Clothes fitting differently (looser in waist, tighter in shoulders)
  • Improved muscle pumps during workouts
  • Better ability to maintain muscle during calorie restriction

Skin and Appearance

  • Improved skin hydration and elasticity
  • Reduction in fine lines or wrinkles
  • Healthier-looking complexion
  • Faster healing of minor cuts or blemishes
  • Stronger, healthier-looking hair and nails

Energy and Performance

  • More consistent energy throughout the day
  • Improved exercise endurance and capacity
  • Better mental clarity and focus
  • Increased motivation for physical activity
  • Reduced fatigue during demanding tasks

Not seeing anything? The usual reasons

  • Dose too low - consider increasing to standard 2mg twice weekly protocol
  • Inconsistent dosing - the long half-life (how long it stays active in your body) requires regular administration for sustained levels
  • Not enough time - full effects take 6-8 weeks to become apparent
  • Poor quality peptide - source from reputable suppliers with third-party testing
  • Improper storage - degraded peptide will not work; ensure proper refrigeration
  • Taking with food - fats and carbs can blunt GH release; take on empty stomach
  • Unrealistic expectations - this is a gentle, gradual approach, not overnight transformation
  • Lifestyle factors - poor sleep, diet, or lack of exercise can limit results

Is it right for you?

Who should avoid CJC-1295 with DAC?

Do not use it if…

  • You have active cancer or a history of cancer (growth hormone may promote tumor growth)
  • You are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding
  • You have pituitary (the master hormone gland at the base of the brain) tumors, disorders, or have had pituitary surgery
  • You have uncontrolled diabetes or diabetic retinopathy (diabetes damage to the eye)
  • You have had severe allergic reactions to GHRH analogs (drugs like growth hormone-releasing hormone)
  • You are under 18 years of age

Be extra careful if…

  • You have a family history of cancer
  • You are taking diabetes medications (may need adjustment)
  • You have carpal tunnel syndrome or are prone to it
  • You have a history of edema (fluid retention and swelling) or fluid retention issues
  • You are taking thyroid medications (GH can affect thyroid function)
  • You have kidney or liver disease

When to stop

  • Signs of allergic reaction (rash, hives, difficulty breathing, swelling)
  • Persistent carpal tunnel symptoms (numbness, tingling, weakness in hands)
  • Significant or unexplained swelling in hands, feet, or face
  • Sudden vision changes or new joint pain that doesn't resolve
  • Blood glucose becoming consistently elevated
  • Discovery of any tumor or malignancy

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any peptide protocol. These guidelines are for educational purposes and do not constitute medical advice.

What it mixes badly (and well) with

Medications

  • Avoid
    Insulin

    CJC-1295 DAC can raise blood sugar - you may need an insulin adjustment. Monitor closely.

  • Avoid
    Diabetes medications

    May work against the blood sugar lowering effects. Requires monitoring.

  • Avoid
    Thyroid medications

    Growth hormone can affect thyroid function - monitor thyroid levels.

  • Avoid
    Corticosteroids

    May blunt the GH response - avoid if possible or use cautiously.

  • Check first
    Blood pressure medications

    Generally safe but monitor, as changes in muscle and fat levels may affect blood pressure.

Other peptides

  • OK together
    Ipamorelin

    Works very well together to boost growth hormone (GH) release. Inject together.

  • Check first
    GHRP-6

    Works well together but may increase hunger significantly. Use together if desired.

  • OK together
    GHRP-2

    Works well together to boost GH release. Can be combined in the same injection.

  • Avoid
    CJC-1295 without DAC

    Does the same job - no benefit to combining both versions.

  • OK together
    BPC-157

    Safe to combine for recovery benefits. They work in different ways.

Supplements

  • OK together
    Arginine

    May boost GH release - can be taken together for added benefit.

  • OK together
    Glutamine

    May support GH release and recovery - safe to combine.

  • OK together
    GABA

    May support sleep and GH release - safe combination.

  • OK together
    Melatonin

    Safe to combine - may enhance sleep benefits of evening dosing.

Who it tends to suit

Growth Hormone Optimization

CJC-1295 with DAC excels at providing a sustained, steady elevation of growth hormone levels. Unlike shorter-acting peptides that create brief spikes, the DAC modification keeps GH elevated for days, mimicking a more youthful hormone profile.

Muscle Building and Recovery

By increasing both GH and IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) levels, this peptide supports protein synthesis and muscle repair. Users often notice improved recovery between workouts and better ability to build and maintain lean muscle mass.

Anti-Aging and Longevity

Growth hormone naturally declines with age, contributing to many signs of aging. CJC-1295 with DAC helps restore more youthful GH levels, potentially supporting better skin quality, energy levels, and overall vitality.

Better muscle and fat balance

The combination of increased GH and IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) promotes fat metabolism while preserving muscle tissue. Many users experience gradual fat loss, particularly in stubborn areas, while maintaining or building lean mass.

Convenient Weekly Dosing

Unlike peptides requiring daily or twice-daily injections, the extended half-life (how long it stays active in your body) of CJC-1295 with DAC means just one or two injections per week provide continuous benefits. Ideal for those who want results without daily protocols.

The safety picture overall

CJC-1295 with DAC was tested in Phase 1-2 human clinical trials, where it showed a generally favorable safety profile. The most common adverse events were mild injection site reactions, including temporary pain, swelling, and redness. No serious adverse events were reported in the published clinical studies. It was being developed for HIV-associated lipodystrophy (abnormal fat distribution linked to HIV) before the program was discontinued.

Safety data comes from limited Phase 1-2 clinical trials conducted in the mid-2000s. While no serious adverse events were reported, long-term safety data is not available. The clinical development program was discontinued, so large-scale safety studies were never completed.

Keeping it good

How do I store CJC-1295 with DAC?

Before mixing (powder)

Store lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in the refrigerator at 36-46°F (2-8°C). Protect from light by keeping in original packaging or wrapped in foil. Can tolerate brief room temperature exposure during shipping.

After mixing (liquid)

Always refrigerate after mixing with bacteriostatic water. Keep at 36-46°F (2-8°C). Never freeze reconstituted solution. Use within 28 days for best potency.

Signs it has gone bad

  • Cloudy or hazy appearance instead of clear solution
  • Visible particles, floaters, or clumps
  • Color change from clear to yellow or brown
  • Unusual odor

Not our opinion — the published record

What the studies actually found about CJC-1295 with DAC

2005

Human growth hormone-releasing factor (hGRF)1-29-albumin bioconjugates activate the GRF receptor on the anterior pituitary in rats: identification of CJC-1295 as a long-lasting GRF analog

This foundational study identified CJC-1295 as a long-lasting GHRH analog (a lab-made copy of the brain signal that releases growth hormone). The DAC technology let the peptide bind to serum albumin (a protein in blood), keeping it in circulation beyond 72 hours and producing a 4-fold increase in growth hormone (GH) release compared to natural GHRH(1-29).

Jette L 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

In healthy adults, a single injection of CJC-1295 raised GH levels 2-10 fold for 6+ days and IGF-1 levels (a growth signal made in the liver) 1.5-3 fold for 9-11 days. The half-life (the time for half the drug to leave the body) was 5.8-8.1 days. Multiple doses had a build-up effect, with IGF-1 staying raised for up to 28 days. No serious adverse reactions were reported.

Teichman SL et al.

2018

The safety and efficacy of growth hormone secretagogues

Systematic review (a study that pools all available research) of the growth hormone secretagogue class (drugs that make the body release more GH), including GHRH analogs: the consistent warning signs across compounds are lower insulin sensitivity (the body responds less well to insulin) and higher blood sugar. Long-term safety data, including cancer rates and deaths, do not exist for any compound in the class.

Sigalos JT, Pastuszak AW

If this isn't the right fit

What people use instead of CJC-1295 with DAC

More controlled growth hormone (GH) bursts (mimicking the natural rhythm)

  • CJC-1295 without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29)
  • Sermorelin

Oral option for growth hormone (GH) support

  • MK-677 (Ibutamoren)
  • GH-releasing supplements

Stronger growth hormone (GH) release

  • Tesamorelin
  • GHRP-6 + Mod GRF 1-29 stack

Healing and recovery focus

  • BPC-157
  • TB-500
  • IGF-1 LR3

Your questions

CJC-1295 with DAC FAQ

What's the difference between CJC-1295 with DAC and without DAC?

The DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) attachment dramatically extends the half-life (how long it stays active in your body) from about 30 minutes to 6-8 days. This means CJC-1295 with DAC can be injected just once or twice per week, while the version without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29) requires daily or multiple daily injections. The trade-off is that the DAC version provides constant GH elevation rather than natural pulsing.

How long until I see results?

Most people notice improved sleep quality within the first 1-2 weeks. Recovery benefits typically become apparent by weeks 3-4. Visible changes in body composition usually take 6-8 weeks of consistent use. Full benefits continue to build over 8-12 weeks.

Should I combine CJC-1295 DAC with Ipamorelin?

This is a popular combination because they work synergistically. CJC-1295 DAC stimulates the pituitary (the master hormone gland at the base of the brain) to release GH (like pressing the accelerator), while Ipamorelin amplifies that signal (like pressing harder). Together they produce a stronger GH response than either alone. They can be injected together in the same syringe.

Can CJC-1295 DAC help with weight loss?

Yes, indirectly. Elevated GH and IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) levels support fat metabolism and help preserve lean muscle mass. Users often see gradual fat loss, particularly from stubborn areas like the abdomen. However, it's not a rapid weight loss solution - it works best combined with proper diet and exercise.

Is CJC-1295 DAC the same as HGH (human growth hormone)?

No, they're quite different. HGH (human growth hormone) is the actual hormone that you inject directly. CJC-1295 DAC stimulates your own pituitary (the master hormone gland at the base of the brain) gland to produce more of your natural growth hormone. This approach is considered more physiological and typically has fewer side effects, though the GH increase is more modest.

Why was the clinical development discontinued?

ConjuChem was developing CJC-1295 for HIV-associated lipodystrophy (abnormal fat distribution linked to HIV). A Phase 2 trial was terminated in 2006 after a patient death, though the cause was not publicly attributed to the drug. The company then discontinued the development program. The peptide remains available as a research compound.

Do I need to take CJC-1295 DAC in on-and-off cycles?

Most protocols recommend cycling to keep your cells from becoming less responsive (receptor desensitization). A typical approach is 8-12 weeks on, followed by 4-8 weeks off. Some users prefer continuous use at lower doses with periodic breaks. Listen to your body and consider getting IGF-1 (a growth signal your liver releases in response to growth hormone) levels tested periodically.

Is CJC-1295 DAC legal?

CJC-1295 DAC is not FDA-approved for any medical use and is sold as a research compound. It is banned by WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) and most sports organizations. Legal status varies by jurisdiction. Always check your local laws and sporting regulations before considering use.

6 sources

References

Every numbered marker on this page points to one of these. Same sources, same numbering as the CJC-1295 with DAC research profile on Peptide Initiative.

  1. Human growth hormone-releasing factor (hGRF)1-29-albumin bioconjugates activate the GRF receptor on the anterior pituitary in rats: identification of CJC-1295 as a long-lasting GRF analogJette L et al. · 2005
  2. 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 adultsTeichman SL et al. · 2006
  3. Advances in the detection of growth hormone releasing hormone synthetic analogsMemdouh S et al. · 2021
  4. Analysis of growth hormone releasing hormone and its analogs in urine using nano liquid chromatographyUcakturk E et al. · 2026
  5. Pulsatile secretion of growth hormone (GH) persists during continuous stimulation by CJC-1295, a long-acting GH-releasing hormone analogIonescu M, Frohman LA · 2006
  6. The safety and efficacy of growth hormone secretagoguesSigalos JT, Pastuszak AW · 2018

Want the deep science?

Read the full CJC-1295 with DAC research profile

Every claim on this page traces back to the research database behind Peptide Initiative — studies, citations, clinical trial data, and the technical detail we deliberately left out here.

Open the research profile

More growth hormone guides

This guide is education, not medical advice. CJC-1295 with DAC is a research compound that is not FDA-approved for human use. Talk to a clinician before taking anything.