CJC-1295 vs GHK
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- 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.
- GHK is the natural tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) released from human albumin that activates tissue remodeling, collagen synthesis, and anti-aging gene expression. The copper-free form is the biological signaling molecule; it chelates copper in tissue to form GHK-Cu but also has independent biological activity.
- Half-Life
- ~30 minutes (No DAC) / 6–8 days (with DAC)
- Extremely short as free peptide; tissue binding extends local effects
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ, Topical, Oral
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 100 mcg
- 100–500 mcg
- Frequency
- Once daily, before bed
- Daily or 5x per week
- Key Benefits
- 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
- Stimulates collagen and extracellular matrix synthesis
- Activates tissue repair gene expression programs
- Anti-aging: reverses 57% of age-related gene changes
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
- Wound healing and skin barrier repair
- Improves skin laxity, texture, and radiance
- Neuroprotective (stimulates NGF, BDNF)
- Anti-fibrotic in liver and lung models
- Side Effects
- Water retention / puffiness
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (with prolonged use)
- Injection site irritation
- Hunger increase (minor)
- +1 more
- Excellent safety profile (naturally occurring peptide)
- Rare: mild injection site reaction (SC)
- No significant adverse effects identified in research
- Stacks With
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