CJC-1295 with DAC vs Pralmorelin (GHRP-2)
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 powerful hexapeptide that stimulates growth hormone release—used clinically in Japan for GH testing and studied for healing and anti-inflammatory effects.
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
Pralmorelin (GHRP-2)
1–1 mcg/kg/hour
Frequency
CJC-1295 with DAC
Twice weekly
Pralmorelin (GHRP-2)
Once daily
Administration
CJC-1295 with DAC
Subcutaneous injection
Pralmorelin (GHRP-2)
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle length
CJC-1295 with DAC
8-12 weeks
Pralmorelin (GHRP-2)
4-6 weeks
Onset speed
CJC-1295 with DAC
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Pralmorelin (GHRP-2)
Rapid (hours to days)
Evidence level
CJC-1295 with DAC
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
Pralmorelin (GHRP-2)
Limited human trials
Benefit ratings
GH Elevation
Convenience
Recovery Support
Muscle & Performance Enhancement
Injury Recovery & Healing
Diagnostic Clinical Use
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
Pralmorelin (GHRP-2)
Molecular formula
C45H55N9O6
Molecular weight
818.0 g/mol
Half-life
15-60 minutes
Bioavailability
~100% (subcutaneous injection)
CAS number
158861-67-7
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]
Pralmorelin (GHRP-2)
Subcutaneous
1 mcg/kg/hour (continuous infusion) in research settings
Continuous infusion · Study-defined (e.g. ~270 minutes in published trials)
Subcutaneous infusion dose used in controlled human GH-release/appetite studies; not an approved therapeutic regimen. [4]
Intravenous
100 mcg (0.1 mg) single bolus (diagnostic GH-stimulation test)
Single administration · Single test; blood sampled at 0, 15, 30, 60 min
Japan-approved diagnostic dose (GHRP Kaken 100) for growth hormone deficiency; fixed 100 mcg IV bolus. A research GH-stimulation dose of 1 mcg/kg IV is also documented. [1]
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.
Pralmorelin (GHRP-2)
Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts
If you're serious about lean muscle gains and recovery, pralmorelin directly stimulates GH release—one of the body's most powerful anabolic hormones. [7][9] Most athletes in research settings use 100-200 mcg for faster muscle repair and improved performance.
Individuals Recovering from Injury
Recent animal studies show GHRP-2 reduces inflammation and speeds tendon-bone healing. [3] If you're dealing with sports injuries, rotator cuff issues, or fractures, this peptide's anti-inflammatory profile may accelerate recovery when combined with proper rehab.
Those Seeking Diagnostic GH Testing
If your doctor suspects growth hormone deficiency, pralmorelin is the gold-standard diagnostic tool in Japan and many countries. A single injection stimulates GH release, allowing physicians to assess your pituitary function safely and accurately [1][5][6].
Peptide Research Enthusiasts
Pralmorelin is one of the most extensively studied GHRPs worldwide. If you're exploring peptide protocols and understand research-grade products, this is a powerful tool for understanding how your GH axis responds to stimulation.
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
Pralmorelin (GHRP-2)
Common
- Facial flushing
- Transient headache
- Increased appetite
- Temporary dizziness or lightheadedness
Uncommon
- Carpal tunnel-like sensations
- Joint or muscle aches
- Sleep quality changes
Serious
- Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
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
Pralmorelin (GHRP-2)
Evidence level
Limited human trials
FDA status
Research compound
Safety overview
Pralmorelin (GHRP-2) has been safely used in diagnostic settings in Japan for decades and is well-tolerated in most individuals when used at appropriate doses. [5][6][11] The peptide is synthetic and chemically stable, with low immunogenicity risk. However, it is NOT FDA approved and should only be used under medical supervision or within research protocols. Long-term safety data in healthy humans is limited.
Contraindications
- Active malignancy or unresolved cancer history
- Uncontrolled hypertension or severe cardiovascular disease
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Acute infection or sepsis
- Uncontrolled diabetes
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 Pralmorelin (GHRP-2) if...
- Athletes seeking enhanced recovery and lean mass gains
- Individuals with suspected GH deficiency (diagnostic use)
- Recovery from tendon or bone injuries
- Those wanting to test GH axis responsiveness