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The Peptide Effect
Dosage Guide

CJC-1295 Dosage Guide: With & Without DAC Protocol

Educational reference for CJC-1295 dosage protocols with and without Drug Affinity Complex (DAC). Covers modified GRF 1-29, CJC-1295 DAC, and combination stacking approaches discussed in research literature.

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Medical Disclaimer

This guide is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Dosages described reflect ranges discussed in published research and clinical practice literature — they are not recommendations. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before using any peptide. Legality and availability vary by jurisdiction.

Overview

CJC-1295 is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) that stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone. It exists in two forms: CJC-1295 without DAC (also called modified GRF 1-29 or mod GRF 1-29), which has a short half-life of approximately 30 minutes, and CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex), which binds to albumin in the bloodstream and extends the half-life to approximately 6–8 days. The DAC version produces a sustained elevation of growth hormone through continuous GHRH receptor stimulation, while the non-DAC version creates pulsatile GH release that more closely mimics natural physiology. CJC-1295 without DAC is frequently discussed in combination with growth hormone-releasing peptides such as ipamorelin for synergistic GH release. Research by Teichman et al. (2006) demonstrated that CJC-1295 DAC increased mean GH concentrations 2–10 fold and IGF-1 levels 1.5–3 fold for 6 days or more after a single injection.

Dosing Protocols

Without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29) — Standard Protocol

Route: Subcutaneous injection
Dose: 100–200 mcg
Frequency: 2–3 times daily
Duration: 8–12 weeks

Due to the short half-life (~30 minutes), multiple daily doses are discussed in research literature. Commonly administered before bed, upon waking, and/or post-workout. Often combined with a GHRP such as ipamorelin at each injection. Best administered on an empty stomach — food (especially fats and carbohydrates) can blunt GH release. For educational reference only.

With DAC — Extended Release Protocol

Route: Subcutaneous injection
Dose: 2 mg
Frequency: Once or twice weekly
Duration: 8–12 weeks

The DAC version has a dramatically longer half-life (~6–8 days) due to albumin binding. This allows for infrequent dosing. Research by Teichman et al. demonstrated sustained GH elevation for 6+ days after a single injection. The extended GH elevation is a continuous "bleed" rather than pulsatile release, which some researchers consider less physiological.

CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin Combination Stack

Route: Subcutaneous injection
Dose: 100 mcg CJC-1295 (no DAC) + 100 mcg Ipamorelin
Frequency: 2–3 times daily
Duration: 8–12 weeks

The most commonly discussed combination protocol. GHRH (CJC-1295) and GHRP (Ipamorelin) act synergistically — GHRH amplifies the GH pulse initiated by the GHRP. This combination is reported in research literature to produce stronger GH release than either peptide alone. Typically administered together in the same injection. Timing: before bed is considered the most important dose, as it synergizes with the natural nocturnal GH pulse.

Reconstitution & Storage

Vial sizes2 mg or 5 mg lyophilized powder
Recommended water volume2 mL bacteriostatic water (BAC water)
StorageRefrigerate at 2–8°C after reconstitution. Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Stability once reconstitutedUse within 30 days of reconstitution when stored properly. Unreconstituted vials can be stored frozen for longer-term storage.

Use our reconstitution calculator to determine exact syringe units for your dose.

Cycle Guidance

Research literature typically describes cycles of 8–12 weeks followed by a 4-week break. The rationale for cycling is to prevent pituitary desensitization and maintain receptor sensitivity to GHRH. Some protocols discuss extended use of 3–6 months at lower doses. The DAC version may require longer breaks between cycles due to sustained receptor stimulation. Without DAC, the pulsatile nature of dosing is thought to preserve receptor sensitivity better, potentially allowing longer cycle durations.

Stacking Considerations

  • The CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin combination is one of the most frequently discussed peptide stacks in research literature due to the synergistic GHRH/GHRP mechanism.
  • Some protocols discuss adding a third component such as tesamorelin or hexarelin, though complexity and diminishing returns are noted.
  • CJC-1295 (no DAC) is sometimes discussed alongside MK-677 (ibutamoren), though both target the GH axis and redundancy should be considered.
  • When using the DAC version, concurrent GHRP use is less commonly discussed since the continuous GH elevation already provides sustained stimulation.
  • BPC-157 and TB-500 are sometimes included in broader recovery-focused protocols alongside GH-axis peptides.

Potential Side Effects

  • Injection site reactions — redness, swelling, or irritation at the injection site
  • Water retention and bloating — reported as the most common side effect, particularly at higher doses or with the DAC version
  • Flushing and warmth — a transient sensation reported shortly after injection
  • Tingling or numbness in extremities — associated with GH elevation
  • Headache — occasionally reported, usually transient
  • Increased hunger — growth hormone can stimulate appetite through ghrelin pathway interactions
  • Fatigue or lethargy — reported during initial use, may resolve with continued administration
  • Elevated cortisol — GHRH can stimulate cortisol release, particularly at higher doses

Contraindications & Cautions

  • Active malignancy or history of cancer — elevated GH and IGF-1 may promote tumor growth
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding — no safety data in these populations
  • Pituitary tumors or disorders — direct stimulation of the pituitary gland is contraindicated
  • Diabetic retinopathy — elevated IGF-1 may worsen retinal neovascularization
  • Active carpal tunnel syndrome — GH elevation can exacerbate symptoms
  • Children and adolescents — may affect growth plate closure and natural development

Related

CJC-1295 Profileanti agingmuscle growthfat losssleeprecoveryipamorelin dosagesermorelin dosagetesamorelin dosage

References

  1. 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 (2006) — PubMed
  2. Phase I clinical study of a new type of growth hormone-releasing peptide, CJC-1295 (2006) — PubMed
  3. Growth hormone-releasing hormone and growth hormone secretagogues: basic physiology and clinical implications (2000) — PubMed
  4. Synergistic effects of growth hormone-releasing hormone and growth hormone-releasing peptide-6 on growth hormone release (1998) — PubMed

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between CJC-1295 with DAC and without DAC?
The key difference is half-life and dosing frequency. CJC-1295 without DAC (modified GRF 1-29) has a half-life of approximately 30 minutes and requires multiple daily injections for sustained effect. CJC-1295 with DAC binds to albumin in the bloodstream, extending the half-life to approximately 6–8 days, allowing once or twice weekly dosing. The trade-off is that the DAC version produces a continuous elevation of GH rather than the pulsatile release pattern that more closely mimics natural physiology.
Why is CJC-1295 combined with ipamorelin?
CJC-1295 is a GHRH analog (growth hormone-releasing hormone), while ipamorelin is a GHRP (growth hormone-releasing peptide) that acts on the ghrelin receptor. These two mechanisms are synergistic — GHRH amplifies the GH pulse that the GHRP initiates. Research literature describes this combination as producing significantly greater GH release than either peptide administered alone. Ipamorelin is preferred over other GHRPs like GHRP-6 or hexarelin because it does not significantly increase cortisol, prolactin, or appetite.
When is the best time to take CJC-1295?
For the non-DAC version, research protocols most commonly describe dosing before bedtime as the most important timing, as it synergizes with the natural nocturnal growth hormone pulse. Additional doses are discussed upon waking and post-workout. All doses should be administered on an empty stomach — food intake, particularly fats and carbohydrates, can blunt growth hormone release for up to 2–3 hours. The DAC version is less timing-sensitive due to its extended half-life.
Does CJC-1295 cause water retention?
Water retention is reported as one of the most common side effects of CJC-1295, particularly with the DAC version and at higher doses. This is consistent with the known effects of elevated growth hormone on sodium and water reabsorption in the kidneys. The effect is typically transient and tends to diminish over the first few weeks of use. Reducing sodium intake and ensuring adequate hydration may help manage this side effect.
How long does it take for CJC-1295 to show results?
Research literature and anecdotal reports describe initial effects such as improved sleep quality and recovery within the first 1–2 weeks. More pronounced effects on body composition (increased lean mass, reduced body fat) are typically discussed at the 6–12 week mark. IGF-1 levels show measurable elevation within days of starting CJC-1295 DAC. Full benefits are generally discussed in the context of consistent use over 3–6 months combined with appropriate training and nutrition.
Can CJC-1295 be used long-term?
Long-term continuous use is a topic of debate in research literature. Most protocols describe cycles of 8–12 weeks with breaks to preserve pituitary receptor sensitivity. Some researchers discuss extended low-dose protocols lasting 3–6 months. The primary concern with prolonged use is pituitary desensitization, where the gland becomes less responsive to GHRH stimulation. No large-scale long-term safety studies exist for CJC-1295 in humans.