CJC-1295
$Human PK data for DAC form; Common confusion between DAC and no-DAC
CJC-1295 is a growth-hormone-releasing hormone analog. The single most important distinction is whether the product has DAC. No-DAC products behave like short GHRH pulses; DAC products bind albumin and last for days.
The DAC version has human pharmacokinetic data showing a multi-day half-life. Many community protocols, however, actually refer to modified GRF 1-29/no-DAC while calling it CJC. Confusing these two can lead to wrong expectations about accumulation, side effects, and monitoring. Verify the exact molecule before reading any protocol.
Distinguish GH pulsatility from prolonged “GH bleed,” because the endocrine risk profile is different.
Classification details
- CJC-1295 is a synthetic tetrasubstituted 29-amino acid peptide hormone, specifically acting as a Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH) analog.
- It was developed by ConjuChem Biotechnologies to treat muscle wasting and growth hormone deficiencies.
- It is a modified version of GRF (1-29) (Sermorelin), engineered for superior stability and a significantly longer half-life.
- CJC-1295 needs a DAC/no-DAC distinction every time. DAC forms are long-acting albumin-binding GHRH analogs. No-DAC or modified GRF(1-29)-type products behave much more like short-acting pulse agents.
CJC-1295 stimulates the pituitary gland to increase the endogenous production of Growth Hormone (GH):
- GHRH Receptor Agonism: It binds to GHRH receptors on the somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary, triggering the synthesis and pulsatile release of GH.
- IGF-1 Elevation: Increased GH levels prompt the liver to produce Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF1), which mediates most of the peptide’s anabolic and recovery effects.
- Pulsatile Preservation: Unlike synthetic HGH, CJC-1295 (specifically the “No DAC” version) preserves the body’s natural “pulses” of growth hormone rather than shutting down natural production.
- DAC Technology: The “With DAC” (Drug Affinity Complex) version incorporates a maleimide group that binds to circulating albumin, preventing enzymatic degradation and extending its activity from minutes to days.
- The mechanism is pituitary GHRH-receptor stimulation, increasing GH pulses and downstream IGF-1. It is not the same as giving growth hormone directly, and physiologic reserve limits response.