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Science & Nature • Peptide

CJC-1295

CJC-1295 is a synthetic analogue of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) developed to stimulate the pituitary gland to release growth hormone and increase insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1).

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

CJC-1295 is a synthetic analogue of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) developed to stimulate the pituitary gland to release growth hormone and increase insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). It is known for a long half-life version that binds albumin through a drug affinity complex (DAC), as well as a shorter-acting version often referred to as modified GRF 1-29. The peptide has been studied in relation to growth hormone deficiency and performance-related use, but it is not broadly approved as a standard medicine.

Mechanism of action

CJC-1295 is designed to mimic GHRH and activate GHRH receptors in the pituitary, promoting secretion of the body's own growth hormone. The DAC version is modified to bind albumin and remain active much longer than native GHRH.

Forms and chemistry

The compound is commonly described in two forms: CJC-1295 with DAC and without DAC. The non-DAC version is often referred to as modified GRF 1-29, while the DAC version uses an albumin-binding strategy to extend half-life.

Research and clinical interest

Sources describe CJC-1295 as having been investigated for growth hormone deficiency and for effects on GH and IGF-1 levels. Some secondary sources also mention body composition, recovery, and sleep, but these are not established approved indications.

Safety and regulatory status

CJC-1295 is not described in the provided sources as a broadly approved prescription therapy. It is also listed by WADA as a prohibited substance because of its growth-hormone-releasing effects and potential performance-enhancing use.

Key facts

  • CJC-1295 is a synthetic GHRH analogue that stimulates the pituitary to release endogenous growth hormone.
  • The DAC form binds serum albumin, prolonging circulation time and activity; the non-DAC form is called modified GRF 1-29.
  • Published studies report increased GH and IGF-1 levels after administration.
  • The peptide is listed as a prohibited substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
  • It is investigational and not broadly approved as a standard therapy.
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Canadian context

CJC-1295 is relevant to Canadian readers mainly as a research peptide and as a substance of interest in sport, anti-doping, and private clinic marketing. Canadian readers should note that performance-enhancing hormone-related peptides are subject to sport anti-doping rules and medical regulation.

Frequently asked questions

What is CJC-1295?
CJC-1295 is a synthetic GHRH analogue that stimulates the pituitary to release growth hormone and raise IGF-1 levels.
What is the difference between DAC and non-DAC CJC-1295?
The DAC version binds albumin and lasts much longer; the non-DAC version is shorter-acting and is commonly called modified GRF 1-29.
How does CJC-1295 work?
It acts as a GHRH receptor agonist, prompting the pituitary gland to release endogenous growth hormone.
Is CJC-1295 approved as a standard medicine?
The provided sources describe it as investigational or research-oriented rather than a broadly approved standard therapy.
Is CJC-1295 banned in sport?
Yes. A PubMed-indexed report identifies it as a prohibited substance under the WADA Prohibited List.
Why is CJC-1295 discussed in bodybuilding and anti-aging contexts?
Because it can increase GH and IGF-1, it is often marketed or discussed for body composition, recovery, and age-related hormone decline, although those uses are not established clinical indications.

References

  1. Peptpedia — https://peptpedia.org/peptide/cjc-1295
    Supports: Synthetic GHRH analogue, DAC albumin binding, long half-life, and existence of DAC and non-DAC forms.
  2. Clinical Peptide — https://clinicalpeptide.org/library/cjc-1295/
    Supports: Mechanism as GHRH receptor agonist stimulating growth hormone release.
  3. Peptides.org — https://www.peptides.org/cjc-1295/
    Supports: Development history, intended research/clinical context, and WADA prohibited status as described in secondary source.
  4. PubMed — https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21204297/
    Supports: Identification of CJC-1295 as a growth-hormone-releasing peptide and WADA prohibited substance.
  5. U.S. FDA docket attachment — https://downloads.regulations.gov/FDA-2024-N-4777-0002/attachment_7.pdf
    Supports: Summary of reported GH and IGF-1 increases and tetrasubstituted GHRH(1-29) analogue description.