CJC-1295

CJC-1295 is a synthetic, long-acting analogue of growth-hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) studied for its ability to raise growth hormone and IGF-1. In Australia it is a prescription-only (Schedule 4) compounded peptide, not registered on the ARTG.

What it is

CJC-1295 is a synthetic peptide modelled on growth-hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), the natural signal the brain uses to tell the pituitary gland to release growth hormone (GH). It is a modified version of the first 29 amino acids of GHRH ("modified GRF 1-29"), with substitutions that make it more resistant to being broken down. Two forms are discussed: the "DAC" version binds albumin in the blood and lasts for days; the non-DAC version ("Mod GRF 1-29") is much shorter-acting. Most published human data relate to the DAC form. CJC-1295 is frequently paired with Ipamorelin, which acts on a different receptor.

How it works

GH is normally released in pulses, driven by GHRH (stimulates release) and somatostatin (suppresses it). CJC-1295 mimics GHRH, binding to GHRH receptors on the pituitary to encourage more GH output. Because it resists the enzyme DPP-IV and, in the DAC form, binds albumin, it stays active far longer than natural GHRH. A noted feature in the research is that even with prolonged stimulation, the pituitary appeared to keep releasing GH in pulses. Raised GH increases insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which mediates many of GH's tissue effects.

What the evidence says

The most cited human data come from early-phase trials in healthy adults. A randomised, placebo-controlled study (Teichman et al., JCEM, 2006) found single subcutaneous doses produced dose-dependent rises in GH lasting six days or more and in IGF-1 lasting nine to eleven days, and was described as generally well tolerated. But the published trials were small, short, and conducted to assess pharmacology and safety — not to prove benefits like fat loss, muscle gain or anti-ageing. Many online claims draw on animal studies or anecdote. There is no large-scale, long-term safety evidence for the uses commonly marketed.

Legal & regulatory status in Australia

CJC-1295 is a Schedule 4 (prescription-only) substance and is not registered on the ARTG — it has not been assessed and approved by the TGA as a marketed medicine. It cannot be bought over the counter. Where supplied, it is typically through a compounding pharmacy on a doctor's prescription. The TGA has raised concerns about unapproved peptides, and CJC-1295 is prohibited in sport under the WADA code (class S2).

Risks & considerations

Because robust long-term human data are lacking, the full risk profile is not well characterised. Theoretical and reported concerns linked to raising GH and IGF-1 include fluid retention, joint aches, tingling or numbness, headache, and effects on blood-sugar regulation. Product sourced outside the regulated supply chain carries added risks around purity, dosing accuracy and contamination. Individual risk depends on personal health factors a doctor must assess.

What to ask a doctor

• Is there a legitimate clinical reason this would be considered for me, and what are the alternatives?
• What does the actual human evidence show for my goal, versus marketing claims?
• What are the known and unknown risks given my health history?
• If prescribed, how would dosing, monitoring (IGF-1, blood glucose) and follow-up work?
• What is the source and quality assurance of any compounded product?

FAQ

Q: Is CJC-1295 approved in Australia? A: No. It is a Schedule 4 prescription-only substance and is not on the ARTG. Any access is via a doctor and compounding pharmacy. Q: What is the difference between CJC-1295 with and without DAC? A: The DAC form binds albumin and lasts for days; the non-DAC form ("Mod GRF 1-29") is much shorter-acting. Most published human data relate to the DAC version. Q: Why is it often combined with Ipamorelin? A: They act on different receptors and are theorised to stimulate GH release through complementary pathways. Any decision should be discussed with a registered AHPRA doctor.