Alexamorelin vs CJC-1295 with DAC
A next-generation growth hormone releaser that converts to hexarelin in your body for enhanced GH, cortisol, and unique aldosterone stimulation.
Long-acting growth hormone releaser that works around the clock to boost your body's natural GH production with just one or two injections per week.
Written by Michael Carroll — Owner, Director of Research · Reviewed by the Peptide Initiative Research Team · Editorial standards
Quick comparison
Dose range
Alexamorelin
2.0–2.0 mcg/kg
CJC-1295 with DAC
2–2 mg
Frequency
Alexamorelin
Multiple times daily
CJC-1295 with DAC
Twice weekly
Administration
Alexamorelin
Subcutaneous injection
CJC-1295 with DAC
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle length
Alexamorelin
4-6 weeks
CJC-1295 with DAC
8-12 weeks
Onset speed
Alexamorelin
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
CJC-1295 with DAC
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Evidence level
Alexamorelin
Limited human trials
CJC-1295 with DAC
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
Benefit ratings
Growth Hormone Release
Hormone Axis Stimulation
Research & Innovation
GH Elevation
Convenience
Recovery Support
Compound specifications
Alexamorelin
Molecular formula
C50H63N13O7
Molecular weight
958.1 g/mol
Half-life
Estimated 1-3 hours (rapidly metabolized to hexarelin)
Bioavailability
Active IV and orally; subcutaneous bioavailability expected moderate to good
CAS number
196808-85-2
CJC-1295 with DAC
Molecular formula
C165H269N47O46
Molecular weight
3647.28 g/mol
Half-life
6-8 days
Bioavailability
~100% (subcutaneous)
CAS number
863288-34-0
Dosing compared
Alexamorelin
Intravenous
1.0 mcg/kg
Single bolus per test session · Single-dose research study
Alexamorelin is a research growth-hormone-releasing peptide. In the main human study it was given as a single shot into a vein. The lower 1.0 mcg/kg dose raised growth hormone levels. [1]
2.0 mcg/kg
Single bolus per test session · Single-dose research study
The higher IV dose used in the same human study produced a stronger growth hormone response. [1]
Oral
20 mg (about 300 mcg/kg)
Single dose · Single-dose research study
Alexamorelin also works by mouth. A 20 mg oral dose (roughly 300 mcg/kg) released growth hormone in the human study, showing it stays active when swallowed. [1][3]
CJC-1295 with DAC
Subcutaneous
1 mg (1000 mcg)
Once weekly · 2-4 weeks
A starting dose used in practice. The DAC version is long-acting (about a 6-8 day half-life), so weekly dosing keeps growth hormone and IGF-1 raised. In the Phase 1 trial a single dose raised GH for 6+ days and IGF-1 for up to 11 days. [2]
2 mg (2000 mcg)
Once weekly (or split twice weekly) · 8-12 weeks
The common maintenance dose, roughly in line with the 30-60 mcg/kg weekly range studied in the Phase 1 trial. [1][2] In the ascending-dose trials, single injections raised mean GH 2- to 10-fold for six or more days and IGF-I 1.5- to 3-fold for 9-11 days; 30 and 60 µg/kg doses were the best tolerated [2].
2 mg per dose
Twice weekly · 8-12 weeks
A higher total weekly amount split into two doses, used by experienced users; near the top of the 30-60 mcg/kg weekly range from the clinical study. [2]
Best suited for
Alexamorelin
Muscle Builders and Athletes
Alexamorelin's potent GH release makes it ideal for those serious about muscle gains. Its stronger ACTH response compared to hexarelin provides additional recovery benefits, though the cortisol elevation requires monitoring. The oral option is convenient for athletes avoiding injections, though subcutaneous injection remains most practical.
Research-Focused Peptide Users
If you're exploring next-generation GHS compounds, alexamorelin offers a fascinating case study: it's a prodrug that becomes hexarelin in your body, offering a unique window into peptide metabolism. This makes it valuable for understanding how compound modifications affect potency and half-life.
Synergistic Stack Enthusiasts
Alexamorelin shines when stacked with GHRH, creating synergistic GH release that exceeds either alone. It also pairs well with recovery-focused peptides like BPC-157, making it the centerpiece of comprehensive growth protocols.
CJC-1295 with DAC
Growth Hormone Optimization
CJC-1295 with DAC excels at providing a sustained, steady elevation of growth hormone levels. Unlike shorter-acting peptides that create brief spikes, the DAC modification keeps GH elevated for days, mimicking a more youthful hormone profile.
Muscle Building and Recovery
By increasing both GH and IGF-1 levels, this peptide supports protein synthesis and muscle repair. Users often notice improved recovery between workouts and better ability to build and maintain lean muscle mass.
Anti-Aging and Longevity
Growth hormone naturally declines with age, contributing to many signs of aging. CJC-1295 with DAC helps restore more youthful GH levels, potentially supporting better skin quality, energy levels, and overall vitality.
Body Composition Improvement
The combination of increased GH and IGF-1 promotes fat metabolism while preserving muscle tissue. Many users experience gradual fat loss, particularly in stubborn areas, while maintaining or building lean mass.
Convenient Weekly Dosing
Unlike peptides requiring daily or twice-daily injections, the extended half-life of CJC-1295 with DAC means just one or two injections per week provide continuous benefits. Ideal for those who want results without daily protocols.
Side effects
Alexamorelin
Common
- Increased Hunger
- Water Retention
- Injection Site Reactions
Uncommon
- Cortisol-Related Mood Changes
- Joint or Muscle Aches
Serious
- Allergic Reaction
CJC-1295 with DAC
Common
- Injection site reactions
- Water retention
- Flushing
- Tingling sensation
Uncommon
- Headaches
- Fatigue or lethargy
- Joint discomfort
Serious
- Carpal tunnel symptoms
- Blood glucose elevation
Safety & evidence
Alexamorelin
Evidence level
Limited human trials
FDA status
Research compound
Safety overview
Alexamorelin is a research compound with only one small human study (6 subjects), making it much less proven than hexarelin. While it shows promise as a potent GH releaser, the limited human evidence means we don't fully understand long-term effects, optimal dosing in different populations, or rare side effects. Its unique stronger ACTH and aldosterone effects require careful monitoring. Always start low and monitor how your body responds.
Contraindications
- Active malignancy or cancer history (GH stimulation concern)
- Uncontrolled diabetes or severe glucose dysregulation
- Severe cardiovascular disease or unmanaged hypertension
- Pregnancy or nursing
CJC-1295 with DAC
Evidence level
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
FDA status
Research compound
Safety overview
CJC-1295 with DAC was evaluated in Phase 1-2 human clinical trials where it demonstrated a generally favorable safety profile. The most common adverse events were mild injection site reactions including temporary pain, swelling, and redness. No serious adverse events were reported in the published clinical studies. The compound was being developed for HIV-associated lipodystrophy before the program was discontinued.
Contraindications
- Active cancer or history of malignancy
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Pituitary tumors or disorders
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Uncontrolled diabetes
Which is right for you?
Choose Alexamorelin if...
- Maximizing growth hormone release for muscle building
- Cycling with other peptides for synergistic GH stack effects
- Research into next-generation GHS compounds
- Understanding prodrug metabolism in peptide design
Choose CJC-1295 with DAC if...
- Boosting natural growth hormone production
- Building lean muscle mass
- Improving body composition
- Anti-aging and longevity