Peptide Comparison
CJC-1295 (No DAC)vsIGF-1 LR3
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].
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.
At a Glance
Quick
comparison
Dose Range
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
100–100 mcg
IGF-1 LR3
20–100 mcg
Frequency
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
Once daily
IGF-1 LR3
Once daily
Administration
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
Subcutaneous injection
IGF-1 LR3
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle Length
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
8-12 weeks
IGF-1 LR3
4-6 weeks
Onset Speed
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
IGF-1 LR3
Rapid (hours to days)
Evidence Level
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
IGF-1 LR3
Strong preclinical (extensive animal studies)
Efficacy
Benefit
ratings
GH Stimulation
Sleep Quality
Recovery Support
Muscle Growth
Recovery Speed
Nutrient Utilization
Technical Data
Compound
specifications
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
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
Protocols
Dosing
tiers
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
IGF-1 LR3
Applications
Best
suited for
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].
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.
Safety Profile
Side
effects
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
Common
- Injection site reactions
- Flushing or warmth
- Water retention
- Increased appetite
Uncommon
- Tingling or numbness
- Headache
Serious
- Allergic reaction
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
Research Status
Safety
& evidence
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
- xActive cancer or history of cancer
- xPregnancy or breastfeeding
- xPituitary tumors or disorders
- xHypersensitivity to GHRH analogs
- xDiabetic retinopathy
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
- xActive cancer or history of cancer
- xPregnancy or breastfeeding
- xDiabetic retinopathy or uncontrolled diabetes
- xKnown hypersensitivity to IGF-1 or related peptides
- xChildren and adolescents (can affect growth plates)
Decision Guide
Which is
right for you?
Choose CJC-1295 (No DAC) if...
- Increasing natural growth hormone levels
- Building lean muscle mass
- Improving sleep quality
- Enhancing workout recovery
Choose IGF-1 LR3 if...
- Muscle growth and hypertrophy
- Post-workout recovery
- Body recomposition
- Athletic performance enhancement