What Is CJC-1295?
CJC-1295 is a synthetic peptide that mimics growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), the signal your brain uses to tell the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. It's marketed for muscle gain, fat loss, recovery, and anti-aging.
With DAC vs. Without DAC
The main difference is how long each form lasts in the body.
CJC-1295 with DAC:
- DAC stands for "Drug Affinity Complex," a chemical modification that allows the peptide to bind to albumin, a protein in the blood
- This extends its half-life to about 6 to 8 days
- It produces a sustained elevation in growth hormone and IGF-1
- Typically dosed once or twice per week
CJC-1295 without DAC (often called Mod GRF 1-29):
- Has a much shorter half-life, roughly 30 minutes
- Produces short pulses of growth hormone that more closely resemble the body's natural rhythm
- Typically dosed one or more times per day, often combined with a growth hormone-releasing peptide like ipamorelin
What Does the Research Show?
Small human studies in the mid-2000s showed that CJC-1295 with DAC could raise growth hormone and IGF-1 levels for days after a single injection. However, its clinical development did not continue, and there are no large trials showing long-term benefits for muscle, fat loss, or aging.
Research on the version without DAC in healthy adults is also very limited.
Safety Considerations
- Constant GH elevation (with DAC) may disrupt natural hormone rhythms
- Possible side effects include water retention, joint pain, tingling, flushing, and increased blood sugar
- Long-term effects of raising growth hormone and IGF-1, including on cancer risk, are not well understood
- Unregulated online products may be impure or mislabeled
Regulatory Status
CJC-1295 is not FDA-approved. Its status for compounding has been under review and changed during 2026, and it isn't fully settled. Peptide regulations have changed several times in 2026, so a provider can help you understand current rules.
If you're interested in growth hormone-related therapies, talk with a provider first: Talk to a Heva Specialist
The Bottom Line
CJC-1295 with DAC lasts about a week and keeps growth hormone elevated, while the version without DAC lasts minutes and produces short pulses. Both lack strong long-term human evidence and should only be considered with medical guidance.