CJC-1295 DAC
discontinuedAlso known as: CJC-1295 with Drug Affinity Complex
CJC-1295 with Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) engineered to extend its half-life via covalent attachment to a drug affinity complex (DAC), which binds to serum albumin. This modification allows for sustained, multi-day release of the peptide, resulting in prolonged stimulation of pituitary somatotrophs and subsequent elevation of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels. The mechanism bypasses natural GHRH pulsatility, leading to a continuous, non-physiological GH secretion profile. Key research findings from 31 PubMed-indexed studies demonstrate that a single subcutaneous dose of CJC-1295 DAC can elevate GH and IGF-1 for up to 6–11 days in healthy adults, with dose-dependent effects. Preclinical and clinical data indicate increased lean body mass and reduced adipose tissue in animal models, though human trials were limited. Notably, the compound was associated with sustained IGF-1 levels above the normal range, raising concerns about long-term safety, including potential acromegaly-like effects and pituitary desensitization. Clinical relevance is constrained by the discontinuation of CJC-1295 DAC development, likely due to safety and tolerability issues from prolonged GH/IGF-1 elevation. No approved therapeutic indications exist, and its use remains confined to experimental research. The sustained pharmacokinetic profile, while novel, introduced risks of hormonal dysregulation that outweighed potential benefits in clinical settings. For research purposes only — not medical advice.
Key data
Research & studies
CJC-1295 is a peptide drug that stimulates growth hormone production and forms long-lasting conjugates with plasma proteins.; Conjugated CJC-1295 is difficult to detect by mass spectrometry due to low abundance and high molecular weight.; The new LC-MS/MS method successfully confirmed CJC-1295 after immuno-affinity capture and tryptic digestion.; The method detected CJC-1295 at concentrations as low as 180 pg/mL in equine plasma.
CJC-1295 covalently links to plasma proteins via a maleimidopropionic acid group, evading standard mass spectrometry detection.; The I-PCR assay detects the CJC-1295-protein conjugate at concentrations as low as 0.8 pg/mL.; A screening threshold of 50 pg/mL was established to differentiate CJC-1295 from endogenous equine GHRH.; The assay effectively identified CJC-1295 in equine plasma samples after administration to thoroughbred race horses.
Forum users were well versed in poly-use of performance and image drug supplementation.; Reasons for using CJC-1295 included weight loss, muscle enhancement, youthful skin, improved sleep, and injury healing.; Concerns focused on female-specific consequences due to gender variations in growth hormone pulses affecting dosage and cycling.; Public health interventions should address female self-medicating use of synthetic growth hormone and related adverse health consequences.
The preparation contained a 29 amino acid peptide with a C-terminal amide.; The peptide sequence matched CJC-1295, a growth-hormone-releasing factor.; CJC-1295 is listed as a Prohibited Substance under Section S2 of the WADA Prohibited List.; The substance has potential performance-enhancing effects and is available for illicit use.
Two protein spots decreased after treatment: apolipoprotein A1 isoform and transthyretin isoform.; Three protein spots increased after treatment: beta-hemoglobin, a C-terminal albumin fragment, and a mix of immunoglobulin and albumin fragments.; A linear relationship was found between the spot containing immunoglobulin and albumin fragments and IGF-1 levels.; Identified proteins may serve as potential biomarkers for GH and/or IGF-1 activity.
Daily CJC-1295 normalized body weight and length in GHRHKO mice.; Every 48- or 72-hour dosing improved growth but did not fully normalize it.; Femur and tibia length were normal with daily and every-48-hour treatment.; CJC-1295 increased pituitary RNA and GH mRNA, indicating somatotroph proliferation.
GH pulsatility was preserved after CJC-1295 administration, with unaltered pulse frequency and magnitude.; Basal (trough) GH levels increased 7.5-fold, contributing to a 46% increase in mean GH and 45% increase in IGF-I.; No significant differences were observed between 60 and 90 µg/kg doses.; IGF-I increases did not correlate with any parameters of GH secretion.
Single CJC-1295 injection increased GH 2- to 10-fold for ≥6 days and IGF-I 1.5- to 3-fold for 9-11 days.; Estimated half-life of CJC-1295 was 5.8-8.1 days.; Multiple doses maintained IGF-I above baseline for up to 28 days with cumulative effects.; No serious adverse reactions; doses of 30 or 60 μg/kg were safe and well tolerated.
Frequently asked questions
What is CJC-1295 DAC?
CJC-1295 with Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) engineered to extend its half-life via covalent attachment to a drug affinity complex (DAC), which binds to serum albumin. This modification allows for sustained, multi-day release of the peptide, resulting in pro
How does CJC-1295 DAC work?
Albumin-binding (DAC) GHRH analog producing sustained, multi-day elevation of GH and IGF-1.
What is the research status of CJC-1295 DAC?
CJC-1295 DAC is currently classified as discontinued, with 32 research references on record. This is for research purposes only and is not medical advice.
What is the half-life of CJC-1295 DAC?
The reported half-life of CJC-1295 DAC is 6-8 days.
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