CJC-1295 vs CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin Stack
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.
CJC-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 profileCJC-1295 / Ipamorelin Stack
The CJC-1295 (without DAC) and Ipamorelin combination is the most widely researched and community-validated growth hormone secretagogue stack. By pairing a GHRH analog with a selective GHRP, the two peptides act synergistically — producing GH pulses significantly larger than either compound alone, while maintaining a physiological pulse pattern and minimal side effects.
Full profile| CJC-1295 | CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin Stack | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Performance & Growth Hormone | Performance & Growth Hormone |
| Also known as | CJC-1295 DAC, CJC-1295 without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29), Modified GRF 1-29 | CJC-1295 Ipamorelin, Mod GRF 1-29 Ipamorelin, CJC Ipa stack, CJC-1295 without DAC with Ipamorelin, GHRH GHRP combination |
| Evidence | Research-stage | FDA-approved |
| Dosing range | 100mcg–300mcg mcg, once daily (Mod GRF) or twice weekly (DAC version) | 100mcg each–300mcg each mcg, once daily before sleep (or 2–3x daily for more aggressive protocols) |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection (most common), Intramuscular injection | Subcutaneous injection (both compounds), Administered together in the same injection |
| Key side effects | Water retention (especially early in protocol), Tingling or numbness in extremities, Injection site redness, Flushing (transient, shortly after injection) | Water retention (mild, common), Tingling or numbness in hands/feet (transient), Headache (usually first 1–2 weeks), Fatigue or increased sleepiness (often desired at night dose) |
| Cited sources | 2 references | 2 references |
Key differences
- Evidence level differs: CJC-1295 is research-stage, while CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin Stack is fda-approved.
- Administration: CJC-1295 — Subcutaneous injection (most common), Intramuscular injection; CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin Stack — Subcutaneous injection (both compounds), Administered together in the same injection.
- Frequency: CJC-1295 is typically once daily (Mod GRF) or twice weekly (DAC version); CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin Stack is once daily before sleep (or 2–3x daily for more aggressive protocols).
How each works
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.
CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin Stack
CJC-1295 without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29) stimulates GHRH receptors on the pituitary, increasing the amplitude of GH pulses. Ipamorelin independently triggers GH release via the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) with high selectivity — minimal cortisol, prolactin, or aldosterone co-elevation. The combination exploits two separate receptor pathways to produce synergistic GH output. Animal and human studies on each compound individually confirm GH and IGF-1 elevation. The combination is extrapolated from mechanistic research and is the most studied protocol in the peptide research community.
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.