CJC-1295 with DAC: Long-Acting GHRH Analog — Mechanism and Dosing
CJC-1295 with DAC is a GHRH analog with an extended half-life thanks to the DAC modification. It stimulates a sustained increase in GH with 1-2 injections per week.
Peptolux Labs
Most growth hormone peptides require daily injections — sometimes 2-3 times a day. CJC-1295 with DAC changes that. Thanks to a special modification called Drug Affinity Complex (DAC), this peptide remains active for up to 8-14 days after a single injection.
If you're looking for a convenient way to maintain elevated growth hormone levels with a minimal number of injections, CJC-1295 with DAC deserves attention.
What is CJC-1295 with DAC?
CJC-1295 is a synthetic peptide analog of Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH) — the hormone produced by the hypothalamus to stimulate GH release from the pituitary gland. It consists of 30 amino acids, modified for resistance to enzymatic degradation.
DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) is a lysine modification that binds to albumin in the blood. Albumin is the most abundant blood protein and circulates for days. When CJC-1295 "attaches" to it, the half-life jumps from minutes to 6-8 days.
How does CJC-1295 with DAC work?
CJC-1295 with DAC acts through the GHRH pathway — different from the ghrelin pathway of Ipamorelin:
- Binds to the GHRH receptor in the pituitary gland and stimulates GH synthesis and release
- The DAC modification extends the half-life from ~30 minutes to 6-8 days
- Creates a sustained increase in basal GH levels (not pulsatile)
- Increases IGF-1 levels significantly and steadily for the entire period between injections
- Stimulates tissue growth and regeneration through elevated IGF-1
- Does not significantly raise cortisol or prolactin
Difference from the non-DAC version: CJC-1295 without DAC has a short half-life (~30 minutes) and creates sharp GH pulses. The DAC version maintains constantly elevated basal levels. The choice depends on the goal — pulsatile or sustained GH stimulation.
What do the studies say?
CJC-1295 with DAC has been studied in several clinical trials in humans:
- Teichman et al. (2006): a single dose of 60 mcg/kg increased GH by 2-10 times for a period of up to 6 days
- An increase in IGF-1 of 1.5-3 times relative to baseline over 8-14 days
- Dose-dependent effect: higher doses = longer and stronger increase
- Good tolerability without serious adverse reactions in the studies
- With 2-week administration: sustained elevated IGF-1 levels with minimal side effects
How is it taken?
CJC-1295 with DAC is administered as a subcutaneous injection 1-2 times per week:
- Standard dose: 2 mg (2000 mcg) per injection
- Frequency: 1-2 times per week (thanks to the long half-life)
- Timing: evening before sleep or morning — no strict requirement due to the long duration of action
- Course: 8-12 weeks, followed by a 4-week pause
- Can be combined with GHRP (Ipamorelin) for a synergistic effect
The advantage is convenience: instead of 2-3 daily injections (as with CJC-1295 without DAC + Ipamorelin), here 1-2 per week are sufficient.
Side effects
CJC-1295 with DAC is well tolerated, but the sustained elevated GH levels can cause:
- Water retention — mild swelling, especially in the hands and ankles (more pronounced than the non-DAC version)
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities — related to elevated GH
- Fatigue or drowsiness — especially in the first days
- Mild redness at the injection site
- With long-term use: potentially reduced insulin sensitivity (requires monitoring)
Side effects with the DAC version may be more pronounced than the non-DAC version, since GH levels are sustained rather than pulsatile. Monitoring of blood glucose and IGF-1 is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
CJC-1295 with DAC or without DAC — which version should I choose?
With DAC: more convenient (1-2 injections per week), sustained elevated levels, but less physiological. Without DAC: daily injections, but pulsatile secretion, closer to the natural rhythm. For convenience — with DAC. For a more physiological approach — without DAC with Ipamorelin.
Can it be combined with Ipamorelin?
Yes, but with caution. CJC-1295 with DAC already maintains high basal GH levels. Adding Ipamorelin may create an excessive increase. If combining, reduce the dose of Ipamorelin.
How is it stored?
Before reconstitution: in the refrigerator (2-8°C) or at room temperature (up to 3 months). After dissolution: must be refrigerated, use within 28 days.
Important: This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. CJC-1295 with DAC is intended for research use. Consult a specialist before use.