CJC-1295
FitnessAlso known as: CJC-1295 DAC, Modified GRF 1-29, Mod GRF
Limited EvidenceWhat is CJC-1295?
A growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) analog popular in anti-aging and bodybuilding communities. Often combined with Ipamorelin. Not FDA approved as a drug — its US compounding-pharmacy legal status has shifted multiple times since 2023 and remains actively in flux.
How it works
Mimics natural growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) to stimulate the pituitary gland to produce and release more growth hormone. The DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) variant extends its half-life from minutes to days, creating a sustained GH elevation.
What marketers claim
- ▸dramatically increases muscle mass
- ▸burns fat rapidly
- ▸reverses aging
- ▸safe alternative to HGH injections
What evidence supports
- ✓demonstrated ability to increase growth hormone secretion in clinical studies
- ✓phase II trials showed sustained IGF-1 elevation
- ✓development was discontinued by the pharmaceutical company — not due to safety but commercial reasons
Best for
Safety notes & concerns
Full safety guide →- ⚠not FDA approved for any indication
- ⚠long-term safety data in humans is very limited
- ⚠US compounding legality has changed repeatedly: added to the FDA's restricted "Category 2" do-not-compound list in late 2023, then removed from that list in an April 2026 reclassification alongside ~12 other peptides — this could shift again, so don't assume current legal status is permanent
- ⚠may cause water retention, tingling, and flushing
- ⚠potential risk of stimulating growth of existing tumors via IGF-1 elevation
- ⚠injection-based — carries infection risk without medical supervision
Pairs well with
Use caution with
Frequently asked questions
What is the CJC/Ipamorelin stack?
CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin are commonly combined because they stimulate growth hormone release through different mechanisms (GHRH and ghrelin pathways respectively). The combination is thought to produce a stronger, more natural GH pulse than either alone. This stack is popular in anti-aging clinics but is not FDA approved.
What is the difference between CJC-1295 with and without DAC?
DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) extends the half-life of CJC-1295 from about 30 minutes to several days. CJC-1295 with DAC produces a sustained GH elevation, while Modified GRF 1-29 (without DAC) produces shorter, more physiological GH pulses. Many practitioners prefer the non-DAC version for more natural pulsatile release.
Is CJC-1295 legal to buy?
Its status has been unstable. The FDA placed it on a restricted "Category 2" list in late 2023 that discouraged compounding pharmacies from selling it, then removed it from that list in April 2026 as part of a broader reclassification of about a dozen peptides. This does not mean it is FDA-approved as a drug — it remains an unapproved substance sold through the research/compounding market, and the legal picture could change again.
Related fitness peptides
investigational GH axis optimisation in adults seeking to restore youthful GH pulsatility for recovery, sleep quality, and body composition — in a research context with physician oversight; Sermorelin is the more legally accessible clinical alternative in the US for similar goals
understanding GH secretagogue research — use under medical supervision only
research context — those exploring GH secretagogues under medical supervision
following as a research compound in the GH/IGF-1 axis — no approved clinical use exists, understanding the GH → IGF-1 → muscle signaling cascade
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Last updated: 2026-09-25
Medical Disclaimer
The information on this site is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any condition. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, peptide, or treatment protocol.