ACE-031 vs CJC-1295
A neutral, side-by-side comparison of two performance & growth hormone peptides — their mechanisms, dosing ranges, administration routes, side effects, and research evidence. For research and educational purposes only.
ACE-031
Soluble form of activin type IIB receptor (ActRIIB-Fc fusion protein) that acts as a myostatin and activin trap. Blocks the primary signals that limit muscle growth by sequestering myostatin, activin, and related ligands before they reach cell surface receptors. Phase 2 trials in Duchenne muscular dystrophy demonstrated significant lean mass increases.
Full profileCJC-1295
CJC-1295 is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog. It stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone and is almost universally used in combination with a GHRP like Ipamorelin to produce a more physiological GH pulse.
Full profile| ACE-031 | CJC-1295 | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Performance & Growth Hormone | Performance & Growth Hormone |
| Also known as | ACVR2B-Fc, ActRIIB-Fc fusion protein | CJC-1295 DAC, CJC-1295 without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29), Modified GRF 1-29 |
| Evidence | Investigational (in trials) | Research-stage |
| Dosing range | 0.3mg/kg–3mg/kg mg/kg, every 2–4 weeks (subcutaneous injection) | 100mcg–300mcg mcg, once daily (Mod GRF) or twice weekly (DAC version) |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection | Subcutaneous injection (most common), Intramuscular injection |
| Key side effects | Nosebleeds (epistaxis — most common reported AE), Telangiectasia (visible small blood vessel dilation), Gum bleeding, Elevated hemoglobin | Water retention (especially early in protocol), Tingling or numbness in extremities, Injection site redness, Flushing (transient, shortly after injection) |
| Cited sources | 2 references | 2 references |
Key differences
- Evidence level differs: ACE-031 is investigational (in trials), while CJC-1295 is research-stage.
- Administration: ACE-031 — Subcutaneous injection; CJC-1295 — Subcutaneous injection (most common), Intramuscular injection.
- Dosing units differ: ACE-031 is dosed in mg/kg, CJC-1295 in mcg — they operate at different scales.
- Frequency: ACE-031 is typically every 2–4 weeks (subcutaneous injection); CJC-1295 is once daily (Mod GRF) or twice weekly (DAC version).
How each works
ACE-031
ACE-031 functions as a decoy receptor, binding myostatin, activin A/B, GDF-11, and BMP-9 in circulation before they can activate cellular ActRIIB receptors. In the Duchenne muscular dystrophy Phase 2 trial, ACE-031 produced meaningful lean body mass increases but was halted due to vascular side effects (epistaxis, telangiectasia) requiring dose and safety optimization.
CJC-1295
Studies have demonstrated that CJC-1295 significantly increases plasma GH and IGF-1 levels. The DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) version extends the half-life to approximately 6–8 days via albumin binding, while Mod GRF 1-29 has a much shorter half-life (~30 minutes) and is dosed more acutely. Research in adults with GH deficiency has shown improved body composition and metabolic markers.
This comparison aggregates public research and structured profile data for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not recommend either compound for human use. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before considering any peptide.