CJC-1295 (No DAC) — Research, Dosing & Price Guide

CJC-1295 without DAC, also known as Modified GRF(1-29) or Mod GRF, is a synthetic 29-amino-acid analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) that stimulates pulsatile growth hormone release from the anterior pituitary. It is the most widely used GHRH analog in peptide therapy, prized for producing physiological GH pulses that mimic the body's natural secretory pattern. Its shorter half-life (~30 minutes vs. 8 days for the DAC version) allows discrete GH pulses rather than sustained elevation, which many consider more physiological and safer for long-term use. Almost always paired with a GHRP — typically Ipamorelin — for dramatically amplified GH output.

CJC-1295 (no DAC) is a modified version of the first 29 amino acids of endogenous GHRH, with four amino acid substitutions at positions 2, 8, 15, and 27 (Ala², Glu⁸, Ala¹⁵, Leu²⁷). These substitutions were strategically designed to protect the peptide from enzymatic degradation by dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV), the enzyme that rapidly degrades native GHRH and gives it a half-life of only 7 minutes. The modifications extend the half-life to approximately 30 minutes — long enough to produce a meaningful GH pulse but short enough to preserve pulsatile release patterns. **Receptor pharmacology:** Mod GRF binds to the GHRH receptor (GHRH-R) on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary. The GHRH-R is a Class B G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) that signals primarily through Gαs, activating adenylyl cyclase and increasing intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP). Elevated cAMP activates protein kinase A (PKA), which phosphorylates transcription factors (CREB) that increase GH gene transcription AND triggers exocytosis of stored GH granules for immediate release. **The GHRH + GHRP synergy:** When Mod GRF is combined with a GHRP (growth hormone-releasing peptide) like Ipamorelin, the GH pulse amplitude is dramatically amplified — typically 2–3x greater than either peptide alone. This occurs because GHRPs work through a completely different receptor (the ghrelin/GHS receptor, GHS-R1a) using different intracellular signaling (Gαq → IP3/calcium rather than Gαs → cAMP). The two signaling cascades converge synergistically on GH release. Additionally, GHRPs suppress somatostatin (the GH-inhibiting hormone), removing the brake while Mod GRF steps on the gas. **Advantages over exogenous GH:** Because Mod GRF stimulates endogenous GH production, the resulting GH has the full spectrum of normal GH isoforms and follows physiological pulsatile timing. This preserves the negative feedback mechanisms that prevent excessive IGF-1 elevation, avoids GH receptor desensitization, and maintains the body's natural regulatory capacity. Exogenous GH, by contrast, provides only the 22kDa isoform in a non-pulsatile pattern and suppresses endogenous GH production through direct negative feedback.

• Studies demonstrate that Mod GRF combined with a GHRP increases GH pulse amplitude by 7–10 fold compared to baseline — producing GH levels comparable to those seen in young, healthy adults at their nocturnal peak.
• Does not cause 'GH bleed' (sustained elevation) — maintains natural pulsatility with clear peaks and troughs, which preserves GH receptor sensitivity and prevents desensitization.
• Well-tolerated in clinical studies with minimal side effects. No significant impact on glucose homeostasis at standard doses, unlike exogenous GH which can cause insulin resistance.
• Produces steady IGF-1 increases of 50–100% above baseline when used consistently for 4+ weeks, similar to low-dose exogenous GH therapy but through a more physiological mechanism.
• The DPP-IV-resistant modifications were validated in pharmacokinetic studies showing a 4–5x extension in bioactive half-life compared to native GHRH(1-29).
• Head-to-head comparison with exogenous GH shows comparable IGF-1 elevation at moderate GH doses, with better preservation of GH pulsatility and insulin sensitivity.
• Long-term use data from peptide therapy clinics suggests sustained efficacy over 6–12+ months when used with appropriate cycling, without the tachyphylaxis seen with some GHRPs.
• Combination with Ipamorelin specifically (rather than GHRP-2 or GHRP-6) is preferred because Ipamorelin does not significantly increase cortisol, prolactin, or hunger — making it the cleanest GHRP partner.

• Standard dose: 100 mcg (1 mcg/kg for a 100 kg individual) subcutaneous injection, combined with Ipamorelin 100–200 mcg at each injection. This combination is the foundation of modern peptide-based GH therapy.
• Dosing frequency: 1–3 times daily. Common protocols: (1) Once daily at bedtime to amplify the nocturnal GH surge; (2) Twice daily — morning and bedtime; (3) Three times daily — morning, post-workout, and bedtime for maximum GH output.
• Critical timing: Inject on an empty stomach — at least 2 hours after eating, and wait at least 30 minutes before eating after injection. Elevated insulin and blood glucose directly suppress GH release, negating the peptide's effects. This is the most common mistake users make.
• Bedtime dosing is particularly effective because it synergizes with the natural nocturnal GH pulse. The largest endogenous GH secretion occurs during the first 90 minutes of deep sleep (Stage 3 NREM). Injecting 15–30 minutes before bed amplifies this peak.
• Post-workout timing: Inject within 15 minutes of completing resistance training to synergize with the exercise-induced GH pulse. Wait at least 30 minutes before consuming a post-workout meal.
• Cycle: 12–16 weeks on, 4 weeks off. Some practitioners run continuous protocols at once-daily dosing without cycling, as the pulsatile nature of Mod GRF preserves pituitary sensitivity. However, periodic breaks are recommended to prevent potential pituitary desensitization.
• Saturation dose: The GHRH receptor saturates at approximately 100 mcg — doses above this do not proportionally increase GH output. Using 200 mcg produces only marginally more GH than 100 mcg, making higher doses cost-inefficient.
• Do NOT combine with food, sugar, or carbohydrates. Even a small insulin spike will significantly blunt the GH response.
• Reconstitution: Add 2 mL bacteriostatic water to a 5 mg vial = 2.5 mg/mL (100 mcg per 0.04 mL/4 units on an insulin syringe).

Known Side Effects

• Injection site reactions — mild redness, itching, or transient pain. Common but minor. Rotate injection sites.
• Flushing and warmth — a sensation of warmth or facial flushing within 5–10 minutes of injection, reported by approximately 15–20% of users. Caused by vasodilation from GH release. Temporary and harmless.
• Head rush or lightheadedness — transient dizziness within minutes of injection, particularly at higher doses. Usually mild and self-resolving within 15 minutes.
• Increased hunger — GH stimulates appetite in some individuals. More pronounced with GHRP-6 combinations than with Ipamorelin.
• Water retention — mild fluid retention, particularly in the hands and feet, more common during the first 2 weeks. Usually resolves as the body adjusts. Much less pronounced than with exogenous GH.
• Tingling or numbness in extremities — related to GH-mediated fluid shifts. Typically transient.
• Vivid dreams — commonly reported, likely related to enhanced deep sleep quality from the nocturnal GH surge. Generally considered a positive effect.
• Fatigue initially — some users feel more tired in the first week as sleep architecture deepens. Transitions to improved energy as the body adapts.

Safety Profile

CJC-1295 (no DAC) has an excellent safety profile supported by clinical research data and extensive real-world use in peptide therapy clinics over the past decade. Its pulsatile mechanism preserves the body's natural GH regulatory systems, including somatostatin negative feedback, which prevents the excessive IGF-1 elevation associated with exogenous GH. At standard doses (100 mcg 1–3x daily), it does not significantly impair glucose tolerance or cause insulin resistance. The key safety advantages over exogenous GH include: preserved pulsatile release pattern, maintained endogenous production capacity (GH production recovers quickly upon cessation), no antibody formation against endogenous GH, lower risk of carpal tunnel syndrome and other GH side effects, and self-limiting effects (the pituitary has a finite releasable GH pool per pulse, providing a natural ceiling). Contraindications include: active malignancy (GH/IGF-1 can promote tumor growth), history of pituitary tumors, uncontrolled diabetes (GH opposes insulin action), and pregnancy/breastfeeding. Individuals over 40 should have baseline IGF-1 levels checked, and periodic monitoring (every 3–6 months) is recommended during use. Do not combine with exogenous GH (redundant and potentially suppressive). Caution in individuals with a history of cancer — allow adequate cancer-free interval before using any GH-promoting therapy.

Week 1: Improved sleep quality is typically the first noticeable effect — deeper sleep, easier falling asleep, and more vivid dreams. Mild flushing after injection is common. Some users notice a subtle energy improvement by the end of the first week. Weeks 2–4: Sleep quality continues to improve. Recovery from exercise accelerates noticeably. Skin texture begins improving (smoother, better hydration). Mild fat loss may begin, particularly with proper diet and exercise. Nails may grow faster. Weeks 5–8: Body composition changes become visible — reduced abdominal fat, improved muscle tone, better workout recovery. Energy and mood are consistently improved. Hair quality may improve. Joint comfort often increases as GH promotes connective tissue health. IGF-1 levels typically increase 50–100% above baseline when measured. Weeks 9–12: Full effects are established. Users report looking and feeling younger — improved skin elasticity, body composition, energy, sleep, and recovery. These effects are cumulative and build throughout the cycle. Fat loss and muscle definition continue to improve. Weeks 13–16+: Continued benefits with maintenance dosing. Upon cycling off, most effects gradually diminish over 2–4 weeks as GH and IGF-1 return to baseline. Sleep quality and skin improvements tend to persist longest.

Prices sourced from peptides.gg marketplace. Prices may vary.