CJC-1295 with DAC vs IGF-1 LR3
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.
A supercharged version of your body's own growth factor that stays active 2-3 times longer than regular IGF-1, making it a powerhouse for muscle growth, recovery, and cellular regeneration.
Written by Michael Carroll — Owner, Director of Research · Reviewed by the Peptide Initiative Research Team · Editorial standards
Quick comparison
Dose range
CJC-1295 with DAC
2–2 mg
IGF-1 LR3
20–100 mcg
Frequency
CJC-1295 with DAC
Twice weekly
IGF-1 LR3
Once daily
Administration
CJC-1295 with DAC
Subcutaneous injection
IGF-1 LR3
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle length
CJC-1295 with DAC
8-12 weeks
IGF-1 LR3
4-6 weeks
Onset speed
CJC-1295 with DAC
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
IGF-1 LR3
Rapid (hours to days)
Evidence level
CJC-1295 with DAC
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
IGF-1 LR3
Strong preclinical (extensive animal studies)
Benefit ratings
GH Elevation
Convenience
Recovery Support
Muscle Growth
Recovery Speed
Nutrient Utilization
Compound specifications
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
IGF-1 LR3
Molecular formula
C400H625N111O115S9
Molecular weight
9111.4 g/mol
Half-life
20-30 hours
Bioavailability
High when injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly
CAS number
946870-92-4
Dosing compared
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]
IGF-1 LR3
Best suited for
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.
IGF-1 LR3
Serious Muscle Builders
If you're pushing hard in the gym and want to maximize every rep, IGF-1 LR3 helps your muscles grow through both hypertrophy (bigger cells) AND hyperplasia (more cells) [2]. That's a one-two punch that few other compounds offer.
Recovery-Focused Athletes
Train hard, recover faster. IGF-1 LR3 accelerates tissue repair and reduces the time you need between intense sessions [14]. It's particularly valuable during high-volume training blocks or when preparing for competition.
Body Recomposition Goals
Looking to build muscle while losing fat? IGF-1 LR3 helps shuttle nutrients into muscle cells while improving how your body uses fat for fuel [8][15]. Combined with proper diet, it supports that lean, muscular physique.
Post-Injury Rehabilitation
IGF-1 is your body's natural repair signal. The LR3 version stays active longer, potentially helping injured tissues heal more completely [1][5]. Athletes recovering from muscle strains or tears may find it particularly beneficial.
Side effects
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
IGF-1 LR3
Common
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Injection site reactions
- Water retention
- Headaches
Uncommon
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Numbness or tingling
Serious
- Severe hypoglycemia
Safety & evidence
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
IGF-1 LR3
Evidence level
Strong preclinical (extensive animal studies)
FDA status
Research compound
Safety overview
IGF-1 LR3 has been extensively studied in research settings and shows a predictable side effect profile when used responsibly. The primary concern is hypoglycemia, which is manageable with proper nutrition timing [7][9]. Long-term safety data in humans is limited since it's used as a research compound. Joint discomfort and water retention are generally mild and resolve when cycling off.
Contraindications
- Active cancer or history of cancer
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Diabetic retinopathy or uncontrolled diabetes
- Known hypersensitivity to IGF-1 or related peptides
- Children and adolescents (can affect growth plates)
Which is right for you?
Choose CJC-1295 with DAC if...
- Boosting natural growth hormone production
- Building lean muscle mass
- Improving body composition
- Anti-aging and longevity
Choose IGF-1 LR3 if...
- Muscle growth and hypertrophy
- Post-workout recovery
- Body recomposition
- Athletic performance enhancement