Alexamorelin vs CJC-1295 (No DAC)
A next-generation growth hormone releaser that converts to hexarelin in your body for enhanced GH, cortisol, and unique aldosterone stimulation.
A modified growth hormone-releasing hormone that boosts your body's natural GH pulses for better recovery, deeper sleep, and improved body composition [13] [17].
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 (No DAC)
100–100 mcg
Frequency
Alexamorelin
Multiple times daily
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
Once daily
Administration
Alexamorelin
Subcutaneous injection
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle length
Alexamorelin
4-6 weeks
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
8-12 weeks
Onset speed
Alexamorelin
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Evidence level
Alexamorelin
Limited human trials
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
Benefit ratings
Growth Hormone Release
Hormone Axis Stimulation
Research & Innovation
GH Stimulation
Sleep Quality
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 (No DAC)
Molecular formula
C152H252N44O42
Molecular weight
3367.9 g/mol
Half-life
30 minutes to 2 hours
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 (No DAC)
Subcutaneous
100 mcg
Once daily, 30 minutes before bed · 2-4 weeks
A common starting dose used in research practice. Because the no-DAC form is short-acting (about 30 minute half-life), it is injected on an empty stomach for the best growth-hormone pulse. [14][15]
100 mcg per dose
1-2 times daily · 8-12 weeks
The typical maintenance dose used in practice, often given before bed and/or after fasted exercise. Frequently paired with a GH-releasing peptide.
100 mcg per dose
2-3 times daily · 8-12 weeks
A higher-frequency plan used by experienced users to mimic natural GH pulses across the day, each dose taken fasted.
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 (No DAC)
Natural Growth Hormone Optimization
Perfect for those wanting to boost their body's own GH production rather than using synthetic growth hormone. Mimics the natural pulsatile release pattern your pituitary uses [2].
Workout Recovery and Muscle Building
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts use it to accelerate recovery between training sessions, support lean muscle development, and reduce body fat over time [17] [18].
Sleep Quality Enhancement
Because GH is naturally released during deep sleep, many users report dramatically improved sleep quality with more vivid dreams and feeling more refreshed upon waking [12] [13].
Anti-Aging and Vitality
As GH levels decline with age, CJC-1295 helps restore more youthful hormone patterns, potentially improving skin quality, energy levels, and overall well-being [16] [17] [20].
Synergistic Peptide Stacking
Designed to work hand-in-hand with GHRPs like Ipamorelin. When combined, these peptides amplify each other's effects for significantly greater GH release than either alone [9].
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 (No DAC)
Common
- Injection site reactions
- Flushing or warmth
- Water retention
- Increased appetite
Uncommon
- Tingling or numbness
- Headache
Serious
- Allergic reaction
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 (No DAC)
Evidence level
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
FDA status
Research compound
Safety overview
CJC-1295 without DAC itself has not been evaluated in controlled human clinical trials; expectations about its safety are extrapolated from studies of related GHRH analogs. The most common side effects are mild and include injection site reactions and temporary flushing [19]. Because it stimulates natural GH release rather than providing exogenous GH, it maintains the body's feedback mechanisms [2].
Contraindications
- Active cancer or history of cancer
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Pituitary tumors or disorders
- Hypersensitivity to GHRH analogs
- Diabetic retinopathy
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 (No DAC) if...
- Increasing natural growth hormone levels
- Building lean muscle mass
- Improving sleep quality
- Enhancing workout recovery