CJC-1295
Also known as: CJC-1295 DAC, CJC-1295 no DAC, Modified GRF 1-29, Mod GRF
Grey-Market Compound. This compound is not approved by the FDA or any major regulatory authority. No established regimen exists. Products available outside of regulated channels lack standardized manufacturing, quality control, and potency verification. Consult a qualified clinician. Research-only risks apply.
Overview
Clinical Summary
CJC-1295 is a synthetic GHRH analogue with 29 amino acids, modified for increased stability and half-life. Two forms exist: CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex, which binds albumin for extended half-life) and CJC-1295 without DAC (also called Modified GRF 1-29). It was originally developed by ConjuChem Biotechnologies but clinical development was discontinued. It is widely used in the grey market, often in combination with ipamorelin.
Plain Language Summary
CJC-1295 is a lab-made peptide that mimics a natural brain hormone (GHRH) to tell your body to release more growth hormone. It comes in two versions: one with a longer-lasting effect (with DAC) and one with a shorter pulse (without DAC). Clinical development was abandoned after early trials, but it remains very popular in the grey market for body composition and anti-aging purposes. It is often used alongside ipamorelin.
Mechanism of Action
CJC-1295 is a synthetic analogue of GHRH (1-29) with four amino acid substitutions (Ala2, Gln8, Ala15, Leu27) that confer resistance to DPP-IV cleavage. The DAC version includes a maleimidopropionic acid linker that forms a covalent bond with serum albumin, extending the half-life to approximately 6-8 days. It binds to GHRH receptors on anterior pituitary somatotrophs, stimulating GH synthesis and secretion in a pulsatile, physiological pattern.
Evidence Summary
Limited clinical data exist. A Phase 2 study by ConjuChem showed sustained elevation of GH and IGF-1 levels with weekly dosing of CJC-1295 DAC. However, clinical development was discontinued (reasons not fully disclosed but possibly related to a death in an unrelated trial). No completed efficacy trials for body composition, recovery, or anti-aging endpoints exist. The evidence is limited to pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic studies demonstrating GH and IGF-1 elevation.
Safety Profile
Clinical trial data are limited. Reported adverse events in early trials included injection site reactions, flushing, headache, and diarrhea. The discontinuation of clinical development raises questions about the risk-benefit profile that have not been publicly resolved. Grey-market use introduces additional risks from product quality variability. No long-term safety data exist.
Contraindications
- Active malignancy
- Known hypersensitivity
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Active pituitary pathology
Adverse Events
- Injection site reactions
- Flushing
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Water retention
- Numbness/tingling in extremities
Interactions
- May potentiate effects of exogenous GH
- Glucocorticoids may attenuate GH response
- Monitor glucose in diabetic patients
Active Safety Signals
ConjuChem Biotechnologies discontinued clinical development of CJC-1295. The reasons were not fully disclosed publicly. This means the compound did not complete the standard safety and efficacy evaluation process required for regulatory approval.
Regulatory Notes
CJC-1295 is not approved by the FDA or any major regulatory authority. Clinical development by ConjuChem Biotechnologies was discontinued. It is sold as a research chemical in the grey market. No established regimen; consult clinician; research-only risks apply.
Monitoring Considerations
No established monitoring protocols. Clinicians may consider IGF-1 levels, fasting glucose, and assessment for signs of GH excess (fluid retention, joint pain, carpal tunnel symptoms).
These are general considerations for clinical awareness and do not constitute prescriptive monitoring recommendations for any individual patient.
Stability and Handling Notes
Lyophilized peptide. Grey-market products lack standardized stability data. Generally stored lyophilized at -20C to 4C. Reconstituted solutions should be refrigerated and used promptly.
References
- 1RCT
Prolonged Stimulation of GH, IGF-1, and Prolactin by the Pituitary GHRH Analogue CJC-1295 in Healthy Adults
Teichman SL, Neale A, Lawrence B, et al. (2006). Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
Key findings: CJC-1295 DAC produced sustained GH and IGF-1 elevation for 6-8 days after a single injection. Dose-dependent increases in GH (2-10 fold) and IGF-1 (1.5-3 fold).
Limitations: PK/PD study only; no efficacy endpoints. Small sample (n=33).
View source - 2review
Growth Hormone Secretagogues: History, Mechanism, and Clinical Development
Sigalos JT, Pastuszak AW. (2018). Sexual Medicine Reviews
Key findings: Review of GH secretagogue classes including GHRH analogues. Notes discontinuation of CJC-1295 clinical development.
Limitations: Review article; limited primary data on CJC-1295 specifically.
Last reviewed: 2024-11-30 | Version: 1 | Status: Published
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