AHK-Cu vs CJC-1295
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- AHK-Cu is a copper tripeptide composed of alanine, histidine, and lysine chelated to copper. Distinct from GHK-Cu, AHK-Cu exhibits strong affinity for hair follicle receptors and demonstrates potent hair growth stimulation alongside wound healing and skin regeneration properties.
- CJC-1295 is a synthetic GHRH analog that stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone. The DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) version has a markedly extended half-life. The No DAC version (Modified GRF 1-29) preserves natural pulsatile GH release and is preferred in most protocols.
- Half-Life
- Hours (topical, variable by formulation)
- ~30 minutes (No DAC) / 6–8 days (with DAC)
- Admin Route
- Topical, Scalp application, Subcutaneous (research)
- SubQ
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 0.01–0.1% concentration
- 100 mcg
- Frequency
- Once or twice daily
- Once daily, before bed
- Key Benefits
- Stimulates hair follicle growth and reduces shedding
- Increases dermal papilla cell proliferation
- Promotes wound healing and skin regeneration
- Antioxidant protection via superoxide dismutase activation
- Improves skin elasticity and firmness
- Supports collagen and elastin production
- Sustained increase in growth hormone levels
- Enhanced muscle growth and strength
- Improved fat metabolism and body composition
- Better recovery and tissue repair
- Increased bone density
- Enhanced immune function
- Improved skin quality and collagen production
- Synergistic GH release when combined with GHRPs like Ipamorelin
- Side Effects
- Generally well-tolerated topically
- Mild scalp irritation or redness in sensitive individuals
- Possible temporary hair shedding phase at treatment initiation
- Copper accumulation with excessive systemic use (rare)
- Water retention / puffiness
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (with prolonged use)
- Injection site irritation
- Hunger increase (minor)
- +1 more
- Stacks With
- —
- —