CJC-1295 (No DAC)

Name: CJC-1295 (No DAC) — Peptide Information
Creator: Michael Carroll

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

Growth HormoneModerate human trialsResearch compound

Suggested dose

100 mcg

100 mcg2-4 weeks · Once daily, 30 minutes before bed
100 mcg per dose8-12 weeks · 1-2 times daily
100 mcg per dose8-12 weeks · 2-3 times daily

Once dailyCycle: 8-12 weeksOnset: Moderate (1-2 weeks)

30 minutes to 2 hoursHalf-life

~100% (subcutaneous)Bioavailability

3367.9 g/molMolecular weight

Moderate human trialsEvidence level

Compound profile

Scientific & efficacy data

Growth Hormone

Peptide profile

GH Stimulation8.8

Sleep Quality9.2

Recovery Support8.5

Moderate human trials

CJC-1295 (No DAC)

100 mcg per dose · Once daily

Molecular formula

C₁₅₂H₂₅₂N₄₄O₄₂

Mol. weight: 3367.9 g/mol
CAS number: 863288-34-0
PubChem: 56841945
Developed · 2005: ConjuChem Research Team
ConjuChem Biotechnologies

Amino acid sequence

Tyr-D-Ala-Asp-Ala-Ile-Phe-Thr-Gln-Ser-Tyr-Arg-Lys-Val-Leu-Ala-Gln-Leu-Ser-Ala-Arg-Lys-Leu-Leu-Gln-Asp-Ile-Leu-Ser-Arg-NH2

GH Stimulation

Effectively stimulates natural GH release in pulsatile pattern, especially when combined with GHRPs

Sources for this statement are still being verified by our research team.

Sleep Quality

One of the most reliably noticed benefits, with deeper sleep and more refreshed mornings

Sources for this statement are still being verified by our research team.

Recovery Support

Enhances workout recovery and tissue repair through elevated GH and IGF-1 levels

Sources for this statement are still being verified by our research team.

Dosing

How much do I take?

100 mcg per dose · 1-2 times daily

Weeks 8-12

100 mcg per dose

1-2 times daily

Full CJC-1295 (No DAC) dosing protocol

Covers all 3 dosing tiers · timing · dose-adjustment guidance.

CJC-1295 (No DAC)Once daily, 30 minutes before bed

How much peptide is in your bottle?

Look at the label on the vial. It’s the number next to mg — like "5 mg".

Suitability

Is this right for me?

Best for increasing natural growth hormone levels & building lean muscle mass

Best for

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].

Consider alternatives if

Longer-acting GH stimulationCJC-1295 with DAC, Tesamorelin

Simpler dosing protocolSermorelin, CJC-1295 with DAC

Direct GH replacementHGH (Somatropin), HGH Fragment 176-191

GHRP-only approachIpamorelin, GHRP-6, GHRP-2

Do not use if

You have active cancer or a history of cancer (GH may promote tumor growth)You are pregnant or breastfeedingYou have a pituitary tumor or untreated pituitary disorderYou have had an allergic reaction to GHRH or its analogsYou have uncontrolled diabetes or diabetic retinopathyYou have active Cushing's disease or syndrome

Use with caution if

You have diabetes (may affect blood sugar regulation)You are taking insulin or diabetes medicationsYou have carpal tunnel syndrome (GH may worsen symptoms)You have a history of joint pain or arthritisYou are over 65 years old (start with lower doses)You have impaired kidney or liver function

Not sure?

Compare CJC-1295 (No DAC) with similar peptides to find the best fit for your goals.

CJC-1295 (No DAC) vs Ipamorelin CJC-1295 (No DAC) vs CJC-1295 with DAC CJC-1295 (No DAC) vs Sermorelin

Administration

How do I use it?

Subcutaneous injection

Route

Subcutaneous injection into fatty tissue

Best sites

Abdomen (2 inches from navel)Lower belly fat rollUpper thigh (front or outer)

CJC-1295 (No DAC) dosing protocol CJC-1295 (No DAC) injection guide

Covers reconstitution · step-by-step technique · storage · a sample daily schedule.

Safety

Is it safe?

4 common side effects · 2 serious

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].

Human studies at doses up to 90mcg/kg showed no serious adverse events [1]. However, most research has been relatively short-term. Long-term safety data in humans is limited compared to FDA-approved medications.

Common side effects · experienced by some users

Injection site reactionsTemporary redness, swelling, or mild pain at injection site

Sources for this statement are still being verified by our research team.

Management: Rotate injection sites, ensure proper technique, apply ice if needed

Flushing or warmthBrief feeling of warmth or facial flushing shortly after injection

Sources for this statement are still being verified by our research team.

Management: Usually resolves within 15-30 minutes, no treatment needed

Water retentionMild fluid retention, especially in first few weeks

Sources for this statement are still being verified by our research team.

Management: Usually temporary, reduce sodium intake if bothersome

Increased appetiteGH stimulation can increase hunger

Sources for this statement are still being verified by our research team.

Management: Plan meals accordingly, can be beneficial for muscle-building goals

Less common

Tingling or numbnessHeadache

These typically resolve with continued use or dose adjustment.

Stop and seek help if

Signs of allergic reaction (hives, swelling, difficulty breathing)
Persistent severe headaches that don't improve
Significant joint pain or carpal tunnel symptoms
Development of diabetes symptoms (excessive thirst, frequent urination)
Any concerning changes in moles or skin growths
Planned surgery (stop 1-2 weeks before)

Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting or stopping peptide therapy. This information is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice.

With other peptides

Safe:Ipamorelin — Excellent synergy - GHRH + GHRP combination amplifies GH release 3-5x more than either alone
Safe:GHRP-6 — Strong synergy but may increase hunger more than Ipamorelin combination
Safe:GHRP-2 — Effective combination with moderate hunger increase
Safe:BPC-157 — Can be used together for enhanced healing and recovery
Caution:CJC-1295 with DAC — Redundant - do not combine as both are GHRH analogs

With medications

Caution:Insulin — May affect blood sugar regulation, monitor closely
Caution:Diabetes medications — GH can increase blood sugar - may need dose adjustments
Caution:Glucocorticoids (Prednisone) — May reduce effectiveness of CJC-1295
Safe:Thyroid medications — Generally safe but monitor thyroid levels

With supplements

Safe:Arginine — May enhance GH release, safe to combine
Safe:GABA — May support GH release and sleep quality
Safe:Melatonin — Safe for bedtime dosing, may enhance sleep benefits
Safe:High-dose carbohydrates — Eating carbs/sugar before injection blunts GH response - avoid

Effectiveness

How do I know it's working?

Moderate human trials · first signs week 1-2

Evidence level

Moderate human trials

(Phase 1-2)

80/100

How it works

Your brain naturally releases growth hormone in pulses throughout the day, especially during deep sleep [11] [12]. CJC-1295 without DAC is a modified version of the hormone (GHRH) that tells your pituitary gland to release GH. By mimicking this natural signal, it amplifies your body's own GH pulses rather than replacing them entirely [2]. This keeps your hormonal feedback system working normally while boosting overall GH output.

CJC-1295 without DAC (also called Modified GRF 1-29 or Mod GRF) is a synthetic 29-amino acid analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It contains four amino acid substitutions (positions 2, 8, 15, and 27) that protect it from degradation by dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV), extending its half-life from minutes to 30 minutes-2 hours [5] [6]. It binds to GHRH receptors on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary, activating adenylyl cyclase and increasing cAMP, which triggers GH synthesis and secretion [8]. Unlike the DAC version, the no-DAC form produces acute GH pulses that mimic physiological patterns [7]. When combined with a GHRP (ghrelin mimetic), the two peptides act synergistically via different receptor pathways, producing GH release 3-5x greater than either alone. The short half-life requires daily dosing but allows for more precise control of GH stimulation timing.

What to expect

Week 1-2

What you might notice

Improved sleep quality and deeper rest
More vivid dreams
Subtle increase in energy levels
Possible mild water retention
Injection site may be slightly red initially

What's normal

Sleep improvements are often the first noticeable effect
Mild side effects like flushing are common and temporary
Don't expect dramatic physical changes yet

What's next

Continue at starting dose if tolerating well
Track sleep quality and energy in a journal
Consider adding a GHRP if not already stacking

Week 3-4

What you might notice

Faster recovery between workouts
Improved skin appearance and hydration
Gradual fat loss beginning
Better workout performance
Sustained energy throughout the day

What's normal

Recovery benefits become more apparent
Physical changes are still subtle
Side effects should be minimal by now

What's next

Consider increasing dose if effects are mild
Ensure proper nutrition to support muscle growth
May add second daily dose for enhanced results

Week 5-8

What you might notice

Noticeable improvements in body composition
Increased lean muscle mass
Continued fat reduction
Better skin elasticity and appearance
Improved sense of well-being

What's normal

Body composition changes become visible
IGF-1 levels peak after consistent use [1]
Full benefits developing

What's next

Continue protocol through week 8-12
Consider lab work to check IGF-1 levels
Maintain consistent injection schedule

Week 9-12+

What you might notice

Sustained improvements in muscle and fat ratio
Continued enhanced recovery
Stable sleep and energy benefits
Overall improved physical performance
Anti-aging effects more noticeable

What's normal

Benefits plateau at optimal levels
Consistent results with continued use
Some users cycle off for 4-8 weeks before restarting

What's next

Decide on cycling strategy with healthcare provider
May take 4-8 week break before next cycle
Maintain lifestyle factors to preserve gains

Signs it's working · Sleep and Recovery

Falling asleep faster and sleeping more deeply
Waking up feeling more refreshed
More vivid or memorable dreams
Faster recovery between workouts
Less muscle soreness after training

Signs it's working · Body Composition

Gradual reduction in body fat
Increased lean muscle mass
Improved muscle definition
Clothes fitting differently (looser around waist, tighter around shoulders)
Better muscle pumps during workouts

Signs it's working · Overall Vitality

Improved energy throughout the day
Better skin quality and elasticity
Stronger nails and healthier hair
Improved mood and sense of well-being
Enhanced exercise performance

Not seeing results? Common reasons

Not taking on empty stomach - food (especially carbs) blunts GH release significantly [14]
Not combining with a GHRP - CJC-1295 alone produces modest effects; pairing with Ipamorelin multiplies results [9] [10]
Dose too low - some individuals need higher doses for noticeable effects
Poor quality peptide - ensure source tests for purity and potency
Inconsistent dosing schedule - daily consistent timing is important for best results
Not enough time - meaningful body composition changes take 6-12 weeks
Improper storage - degraded peptide from improper refrigeration won't work

Key research

[1]“Prolonged stimulation of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor I secretion by CJC-1295, a long-acting analog of GH-releasing hormone, in healthy adults”Teichman et al., 2006Finding: Single injection increased GH levels 2-10 fold for 6+ days and IGF-1 levels 1.5-3 fold for 9-11 days. No serious adverse events were reported in healthy adults.View study

[2]“Pulsatile secretion of growth hormone (GH) persists during continuous stimulation by CJC-1295”Ionescu M, Frohman LA, 2006Finding: CJC-1295 increased GH secretion while preserving the natural pulsatile pattern. Basal GH levels increased 7.5-fold and IGF-1 increased 45% one week after injection.View study

[3]“Once-daily administration of CJC-1295 normalizes growth in the GHRH knockout mouse”Alba M, Fintini D, Sagazio A et al., 2006Finding: Daily CJC-1295 treatment restored normal body weight, length, and body composition in growth hormone-deficient mice, demonstrating its ability to normalize GH-dependent growth.View study

[4]“Activation of the GH/IGF-1 axis by CJC-1295 results in serum protein profile changes in normal adult subjects”Sackmann-Sala L, Ding J, Frohman LA et al., 2009Finding: CJC-1295 administration caused measurable changes in serum protein profiles, indicating activation of the GH/IGF-1 axis with potential biomarkers of GH activity.View study

[5]“Dipeptidylpeptidase IV and trypsin-like enzymatic degradation of human growth hormone-releasing hormone in plasma”Frohman LA, Downs TR, Heimer EP, Felix AM, 1989Finding: Human GHRH, including the 1-29 fragment, is cleaved rapidly in plasma at the bond between amino acids 2 and 3 by the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase IV, which inactivates it. Substituting a D-amino acid at position 1 or position 2 prevented that cleavage.View study

[6]“Enhanced stability and potency of novel growth hormone-releasing factor (GRF) analogues derived from rodent and human GRF sequences”Campbell RM, Stricker P, Miller R, Bongers J, Liu W, Lambros T, Ahmad M, Felix AM, Heimer EP, 1994Finding: Native human GRF is inactivated in three ways: DPP-IV cleavage between residues 2 and 3, chemical rearrangement at Asn8, and oxidation at Met27. Analogues built with substitutions at position 2 (to block DPP-IV), position 8 (to reduce rearrangement), position 15 (Ala15, which improves receptor binding) and position 27 (Leu27, to prevent oxidation) resisted DPP-IV cleavage completely over 24 hours and were 11- to 13-fold more potent than native GRF when injected into pigs.View study

[7]“Human growth hormone-releasing factor (hGRF)1-29-albumin bioconjugates activate the GRF receptor on the anterior pituitary in rats: identification of CJC-1295 as a long-lasting GRF analog”Jette L, Leger R, Thibaudeau K, Benquet C, Robitaille M, Pellerin I, Paradis V, van Wyk P, Pham K, Bridon DP, 2005Finding: Subcutaneous injection of the unconjugated tetrasubstituted hGRF(1-29) derivatives in rats produced an acute burst of growth hormone in plasma. The albumin-binding version, CJC-1295, was still detectable in plasma beyond 72 hours.View study

[8]“Molecular cloning and expression of a pituitary-specific receptor for growth hormone-releasing hormone”Mayo KE, 1992Finding: The GHRH receptor is a seven-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor whose messenger RNA is expressed predominantly, if not exclusively, in the anterior pituitary. GHRH binds it with high affinity and stimulates production of intracellular cAMP.View study

[9]“Blocked growth hormone-releasing peptide (GHRP-6)-induced GH secretion and absence of the synergic action of GHRP-6 plus GH-releasing hormone in patients with hypothalamopituitary disconnection: evidence that GHRP-6 main action is exerted at the hypothalamic level”Popovic V, Damjanovic S, Micic D, Djurovic M, Dieguez C, Casanueva FF, 1995Finding: In healthy adults, growth hormone released over 120 minutes measured 484 ug/L per min after GHRH alone and 1435 after GHRP-6 alone, but 3772 when the two were given together. The combined response was significantly greater than the sum of the two given separately.View study

[10]“Ipamorelin, the first selective growth hormone secretagogue”Raun K, Hansen BS, Johansen NL, Thogersen H, Madsen K, Ankersen M, Andersen PH, 1998Finding: Ipamorelin releases growth hormone through a GHRP-type receptor, which is separate from the GHRH receptor, with potency comparable to GHRP-6. Unlike GHRP-6 and GHRP-2, it did not raise ACTH or cortisol.View study

[11]“Growth hormone secretion during sleep”Takahashi Y, Kipnis DM, Daughaday WH, 1968Finding: Overnight blood sampling in eight young adults found that in seven of them a large plasma growth hormone peak lasting 1.5 to 3.5 hours began with the onset of deep sleep. Delaying sleep delayed the peak.View study

[12]“Interrelationships between growth hormone and sleep”Van Cauter E, Copinschi G, 2000Finding: The 24-hour growth hormone profile in healthy young adults consists of stable low levels interrupted by bursts of secretion. The amount of growth hormone secreted is linearly related to the amount of slow-wave sleep, and both decline with age on the same timetable.View study

[13]“Effects of growth hormone-releasing hormone and somatostatin on sleep EEG and nocturnal hormone secretion in male controls”Steiger A, Guldner J, Hemmeter U, Rothe B, Wiedemann K, Holsboer F, 1992Finding: Seven healthy men received four intravenous boluses of GHRH across the evening. GHRH raised overnight plasma growth hormone and increased the share of the night spent in slow-wave sleep from 14.0 percent on placebo to 20.2 percent.View study

[14]“Arginine abolishes the inhibitory effect of glucose on the growth hormone response to growth hormone-releasing hormone in man”Ghigo E, Miola C, Aimaretti G, Valente F, Procopio M, Arvat E, Yin-Zhang W, Camanni F, 1992Finding: In seven healthy adults, an oral glucose load given before GHRH lowered the peak growth hormone response from 11.6 to 7.4 ug/L. The authors attribute the effect to glucose stimulating release of somatostatin, the hormone that opposes GH secretion.View study

[15]“Evidence for an inhibitory effect of physiological levels of insulin on the growth hormone (GH) response to GH-releasing hormone in healthy subjects”Lanzi R, Manzoni MF, Andreotti AC, Malighetti ME, Bianchi E, Sereni LP, Caumo A, Luzi L, Pontiroli AE, 1997Finding: Six healthy adults received GHRH at three different insulin levels. As insulin rose from 12 to 100 to 194 pmol/L, the growth hormone response to GHRH fell from 4871 to 2414 to 1076 ug/L per 120 min, and insulin level correlated negatively with the GH response. The authors note the insulin levels that reduced the response are the levels normally reached after a meal.View study

[16]“Age and relative adiposity are specific negative determinants of the frequency and amplitude of growth hormone (GH) secretory bursts and the half-life of endogenous GH in healthy men”Iranmanesh A, Lizarralde G, Veldhuis JD, 1991Finding: Twenty-four hour blood sampling in 21 healthy men aged 21 to 71 showed that growth hormone production falls about 14 percent with each decade of age, with fewer secretory bursts and a shorter GH half-life in the older men.View study

[17]“Effects of human growth hormone in men over 60 years old”Rudman D, Feller AG, Nagraj HS, Gergans GA, Lalitha PY, Goldberg AF, Schlenker RA, Cohn L, Rudman IW, Mattson DE, 1990Finding: Twelve men aged 61 to 81 given growth hormone for six months moved their IGF-1 into the range typical of young adults and gained 8.8 percent in lean body mass while losing 14.4 percent of adipose tissue mass. Skin thickness rose 7.1 percent, which did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.07). An untreated comparison group showed no such changes.View study

[18]“Metabolic effects of a growth hormone-releasing factor in patients with HIV”Falutz J, Allas S, Blot K, Potvin D, Kotler D, Somero M, Berger D, Brown S, Richmond G, Fessel J, Turner R, Grinspoon S, 2007Finding: In 412 patients randomly assigned to daily subcutaneous injection of the GHRH analogue tesamorelin or placebo for 26 weeks, visceral adipose tissue fell 15.2 percent on tesamorelin and rose 5.0 percent on placebo, and IGF-1 rose 81 percent. Triglycerides and cholesterol ratios also improved.View study

[19]“Sermorelin: a review of its use in the diagnosis and treatment of children with idiopathic growth hormone deficiency”Prakash A, Goa KL, 1999Finding: Sermorelin, the unmodified 29-amino-acid GHRH fragment, was well tolerated both as a single intravenous dose and as repeated once-daily subcutaneous doses. Transient facial flushing and pain at the injection site were the most commonly reported adverse events.View study

[20]“Growth hormone deficiency in adults: effects of replacement therapy on body composition and health-related quality of life”Mesa J, Gomez JM, Hernandez C, Pico A, Ulied A, 2003Finding: In a six-month double-blind placebo-controlled trial in 165 adults with growth hormone deficiency, growth hormone significantly increased fat-free mass and decreased fat mass. Scores improved on the energy and emotional-reaction dimensions of the Nottingham Health Profile and on the QoL-AGHDA questionnaire, with no improvement in the placebo group.View study

Questions

Frequently asked

What's the difference between CJC-1295 with DAC and without DAC?

The DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) version attaches to albumin in your blood, extending its half-life to 6-8 days for weekly dosing [1]. The no-DAC version has a short half-life of 30 minutes to 2 hours, requiring daily dosing but producing more natural GH pulses. Most users prefer no-DAC for its more physiological release pattern and ability to fine-tune dosing.

Why should I combine CJC-1295 with Ipamorelin?

CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin work through different receptors but both stimulate GH release. When combined, they create a synergistic effect that releases 3-5 times more GH than either peptide alone. Think of CJC-1295 as pressing the gas pedal while Ipamorelin releases the parking brake - together they're far more effective.

Sources for this statement are still being verified by our research team.

Why do I need to take it on an empty stomach?

Food, especially carbohydrates, triggers insulin release. Insulin significantly blunts the GH response to CJC-1295 [15]. Taking it fasted (2+ hours after eating) ensures maximum GH release. This is why bedtime dosing is popular - most people haven't eaten for several hours before sleep.

How long until I see results?

Sleep improvements are often noticed within the first week. Enhanced recovery and energy typically appear by weeks 2-3. Visible body composition changes (less fat, more muscle) usually take 6-8 weeks of consistent use. Full benefits are typically seen by week 12.

Sources for this statement are still being verified by our research team.

Is CJC-1295 without DAC the same as Mod GRF 1-29?

Yes, they're the same peptide with different names. Modified GRF (1-29), Mod GRF 1-29, and CJC-1295 without DAC all refer to the tetrasubstituted 29-amino acid GHRH analog. The naming can be confusing, but if you see these names, they're describing the same compound.

Sources for this statement are still being verified by our research team.

Can I use CJC-1295 without DAC for anti-aging?

Many people use it for this purpose. Growth hormone naturally declines with age, and restoring more youthful GH patterns may support skin quality, energy levels, body composition, and overall vitality [16] [17] [20]. However, it won't reverse aging - it may help you feel more energetic and recover better.

Do I need to cycle CJC-1295 without DAC?

Many users follow 8-12 week cycles with 4-8 week breaks, though some use it continuously. Cycling may help maintain receptor sensitivity and prevent tolerance. There's no definitive research on optimal cycling protocols, so consult with a healthcare provider familiar with peptides.

Sources for this statement are still being verified by our research team.

What time of day is best for injection?

Most users prefer bedtime dosing because GH is naturally released during deep sleep, and taking it fasted is easier at night. Some users add a morning fasted dose for additional benefits. Pre-workout dosing is another option as GH supports exercise performance and recovery.

Sources for this statement are still being verified by our research team.

Ready for the protocol?

Every dosing tier, administration route, timing note, and dose-adjustment rule for CJC-1295 (No DAC), on one page.

CJC-1295 (No DAC) dosing protocol

Peptide Database

Scientific & efficacy data

How much do I take?

Is this right for me?

How do I use it?

Is it safe?

How do I know it's working?

Frequently asked

Ready for the protocol?