CJC-1295

CJC-1295 is a synthetic peptide consisting of the first 29 amino acids of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), modified to extend its biological half-life and enhance its potency. The peptide is available in two forms: with and without Drug Affinity Complex (DAC). The original GHRH has a very short half-life of only a few minutes, limiting its therapeutic utility. CJC-1295 addresses this through strategic amino acid substitutions that resist enzymatic degradation. The DAC version further extends duration through albumin binding. By stimulating the pituitary gland's natural production of growth hormone, CJC-1295 aims to provide the benefits of elevated GH levels while maintaining the physiological pulsatile release pattern, avoiding the complications of exogenous GH administration.

CJC-1295 works through several mechanisms: **GHRH Receptor Binding**: The peptide binds to GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotroph cells, stimulating the synthesis and release of growth hormone. **Extended Duration**: Key amino acid substitutions (Ala at position 2, Gln→Ala at position 8, Asn→Arg at position 15, Met→Leu at position 27) prevent DPP-IV enzyme degradation. **DAC Technology**: When conjugated with Drug Affinity Complex, CJC-1295 binds to serum albumin, creating a depot effect that extends its half-life to approximately one week. **Pulsatile Release**: Unlike exogenous GH, CJC-1295 maintains the natural pulsatile pattern of GH release, potentially reducing side effects associated with continuous GH elevation. **IGF-1 Elevation**: Through GH stimulation, CJC-1295 indirectly increases IGF-1 levels, which mediates many of growth hormone's anabolic effects.

CJC-1295 has been studied in various clinical and preclinical contexts: **Phase I/II Trials**: Studies demonstrated sustained elevation of growth hormone and IGF-1 levels for up to 2 weeks following a single injection of CJC-1295 with DAC. **Dose-Response**: Research showed dose-dependent increases in GH and IGF-1, with 30-60mcg/kg producing significant elevations without reaching a ceiling effect. **HIV-Associated Lipodystrophy**: Some investigation has explored CJC-1295 for treating body composition abnormalities in HIV patients. **Safety Profile**: Clinical trials reported good tolerability with injection site reactions being the most common adverse event. **Comparison Studies**: Research has compared CJC-1295 with and without DAC, demonstrating different kinetic profiles suitable for different applications.

Research protocols differ based on CJC-1295 formulation: **CJC-1295 with DAC**: - Typical dose: 1-2mg once or twice weekly - Extended half-life allows infrequent dosing - Produces sustained GH/IGF-1 elevation **CJC-1295 without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29)**: - Typical dose: 100-300mcg 2-3 times daily - Often combined with a GHRP for synergistic effects - Produces pulsatile GH release **Combination Protocols**: Many research designs combine CJC-1295 (no DAC) with Ipamorelin or other GHRPs to amplify GH release. **Timing**: Typically administered on empty stomach; evening dosing may enhance natural nighttime GH pulse.

CJC-1295 side effects are generally mild: **Common**: - Injection site reactions (redness, swelling) - Flushing or warmth following injection - Headache - Dizziness **Less Common**: - Water retention - Tingling in extremities - Increased hunger **Theoretical Concerns**: - Long-term effects of sustained GH/IGF-1 elevation unknown - Potential impact on glucose metabolism with chronic use **Contraindications**: Active malignancy, pituitary disorders, uncontrolled diabetes.