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CJC-1295 vs Ipamorelin

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The key difference

They raise growth hormone through different receptors. CJC-1295 is a GHRH analog, acting on the growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor; ipamorelin is a ghrelin mimetic (GHRP) acting on the ghrelin receptor. Because the two pathways are complementary, they are commonly paired.

Side by side

What it is
CJC-1295A long-acting growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) analog that stimulates the pituitary to produce more growth hormone. Often paired with a ghrelin mimetic for synergistic GH release.
IpamorelinA selective ghrelin receptor agonist (growth hormone secretagogue) prized for stimulating GH release with minimal effect on cortisol or prolactin. Considered one of the gentler GH peptides.
Research status
CJC-1295Research chemical
IpamorelinResearch chemical
Category
CJC-1295Growth Hormone Secretagogues
IpamorelinGrowth Hormone Secretagogues
Half-life
CJC-1295DAC version: ~6-8 days; without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29): ~30 minutes
IpamorelinApproximately 2 hours
Routes
CJC-1295subcutaneous
Ipamorelinsubcutaneous
Reported dosing
CJC-1295Research literature references the DAC form around 1-2 mg weekly, while the no-DAC form is studied at ~100 mcg per dose 1-3 times daily timed to GH pulses. Educational ranges only.
IpamorelinResearch protocols often reference ~100-300 mcg per dose, 1-3 times daily, frequently timed before sleep or paired with a GHRH analog. Educational reference only.
Studied for
CJC-1295
  • Increases endogenous growth hormone and IGF-1 levels
  • Long half-life allows infrequent administration (DAC version)
  • Supports lean body mass and fat metabolism
  • May improve sleep quality and recovery
Ipamorelin
  • Selective GH release with minimal cortisol or prolactin elevation
  • Supports lean muscle, recovery, and fat metabolism
  • May improve sleep depth and quality
  • Lower appetite stimulation than GHRP-6
Side effects
CJC-1295
  • Water retention and tingling/numbness in extremities
  • Injection-site irritation
  • Headache or flushing
  • Transient increases in hunger or fatigue
Ipamorelin
  • Mild head-rush or flushing after injection
  • Water retention or tingling in extremities
  • Injection-site irritation
  • Possible transient increase in hunger
Cited studies
CJC-12954 on its page
Ipamorelin4 on its page

How CJC-1295 works

CJC-1295 is a modified GHRH (1-29) analog that binds the GHRH receptor on pituitary somatotrophs, stimulating endogenous growth hormone synthesis and release. The DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) version adds a lysine linker that binds serum albumin, dramatically extending half-life and prolonging GH and IGF-1 elevation. It preserves the natural pulsatile pattern of GH release rather than producing a constant supraphysiologic level.

Full CJC-1295 profile →

How Ipamorelin works

Ipamorelin is a pentapeptide that selectively activates the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R1a), mimicking ghrelin to trigger a clean pulse of growth hormone from the pituitary. Unlike earlier GHRPs, it has high specificity and does not meaningfully stimulate ACTH, cortisol, or prolactin. This selectivity gives it a favorable side-effect profile while still amplifying GH secretion, especially when combined with a GHRH analog.

Full Ipamorelin profile →

Dosing shown is what research and community sources report, not a recommendation. For educational and research purposes only; not medical advice. How we source this

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