CJC-1295 vs Ghrelin
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 profileGhrelin
Endogenous 28-amino acid peptide secreted primarily by the stomach that functions as both the primary hunger signal and a potent growth hormone secretagogue. The n-octanoyl modification at Ser-3 (acylated form) is required for GHS-R1a receptor binding and GH-stimulating activity. Understanding ghrelin explains the mechanism behind the entire GHRP class of research peptides.
Full profile| CJC-1295 | Ghrelin | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | GHRL, growth hormone-releasing peptide endogenous, ghrelinergic peptide, acyl ghrelin |
| Evidence | Research-stage | Investigational (in trials) |
| Dosing range | 100mcg–300mcg mcg, once daily (Mod GRF) or twice weekly (DAC version) | 0.5mcg/kg–2mcg/kg mcg/kg, IV or SC bolus; endogenous levels peak pre-meal |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection (most common), Intramuscular injection | Intravenous (research), Subcutaneous injection |
| Key side effects | Water retention (especially early in protocol), Tingling or numbness in extremities, Injection site redness, Flushing (transient, shortly after injection) | Appetite stimulation, Transient hyperglycemia, Water retention, GH pulse stimulation |
| Cited sources | 2 references | 2 references |
Key differences
- Evidence level differs: CJC-1295 is research-stage, while Ghrelin is investigational (in trials).
- Administration: CJC-1295 — Subcutaneous injection (most common), Intramuscular injection; Ghrelin — Intravenous (research), Subcutaneous injection.
- Dosing units differ: CJC-1295 is dosed in mcg, Ghrelin in mcg/kg — they operate at different scales.
- Frequency: CJC-1295 is typically once daily (Mod GRF) or twice weekly (DAC version); Ghrelin is IV or SC bolus; endogenous levels peak pre-meal.
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.
Ghrelin
Ghrelin was discovered in 1999 as the endogenous ligand for the GHS-R1a receptor. Its acylated form activates GH release from the pituitary, stimulates appetite via NPY/AgRP hypothalamic neurons, and modulates energy homeostasis and fat storage. The des-acyl form (majority of circulating ghrelin) lacks GHS-R1a activity but has independent cardiovascular and cellular effects.
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.