CJC-1295 (no DAC)
Educational information only — not medical advice. Many listed compounds are not FDA-approved for human use. Consult a licensed clinician before starting, changing, or stopping any protocol.
Overview
CJC-1295 (no DAC) is a synthetic peptide based on the first 29 amino acids of growth-hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), a fragment known as GRF (1-29). Small modifications to that sequence improve its stability, and it is frequently referred to as Modified GRF (1-29).
The “no DAC” label distinguishes it from the longer-acting CJC-1295 with DAC. Both share the same GHRH backbone, but the no-DAC form lacks the albumin-binding Drug Affinity Complex, so it is commonly described as producing a shorter, more pulse-like stimulation of growth hormone rather than a sustained elevation.
Most of the published human data comes from studies of the DAC-bearing version of CJC-1295. Evidence specific to the no-DAC form is more limited, and it is not approved by any major regulator for therapeutic use. In research and community protocols it is frequently combined with a secretagogue such as Ipamorelin.
How it works
As a GHRH analog, CJC-1295 (no DAC) is studied for its ability to bind receptors on the pituitary gland and prompt the release of the body’s own growth hormone. Because it works by stimulating endogenous GH rather than replacing it, researchers have reported that the natural pulsatile pattern of GH secretion is largely preserved.
Ipamorelin and similar ghrelin-mimetic secretagogues act on a separate receptor pathway. The two classes are commonly paired in protocols on the rationale that combined GHRH-analog and secretagogue stimulation may act synergistically, though the precise mechanism and magnitude of any effect in humans is not well established.
Reported benefits
- Increased release of the body’s own growth hormone and downstream IGF-I (studied primarily with the DAC version)
- Preservation of natural, pulsatile GH secretion patterns (reported in early human studies)
- Frequently studied alongside Ipamorelin for potentially complementary GH release
These are reported and studied effects, not guaranteed outcomes.
Considerations & side effects
Because dedicated human trials of the no-DAC form are limited, its long-term safety profile is not well characterized. Commonly reported side effects across GH-secretagogue peptides include injection-site irritation, flushing, headache, water retention, and transient tingling or numbness.
Product purity varies widely in the research-chemical market, and raising GH and IGF-I carries theoretical risks that are not fully understood outside of controlled study settings. It is not a substitute for evaluation and treatment by a qualified clinician.
Frequently asked
What is CJC-1295 (no DAC)?
A synthetic analog of growth-hormone-releasing hormone based on the GRF (1-29) fragment. The 'no DAC' version omits the Drug Affinity Complex that binds albumin, so it is shorter-acting and is often called Modified GRF (1-29).
How is it different from CJC-1295 with DAC?
The DAC version carries a linker that binds to albumin and greatly extends its duration of action, producing a sustained rise in GH and IGF-I. The no-DAC form lacks that linker and produces a shorter, more pulse-like release closer to the body's natural rhythm.
Why is it often combined with Ipamorelin?
CJC-1295 (no DAC) is a GHRH analog, while Ipamorelin is a growth-hormone secretagogue that acts through a different receptor. The two are commonly paired in research protocols because their mechanisms are reported to be complementary.
Is CJC-1295 (no DAC) FDA-approved?
No. It is not approved by the FDA or any major regulator for human therapeutic use, and is sold for research purposes only.
References
- Teichman SL, et al. Prolonged stimulation of GH and IGF-I secretion by CJC-1295, a long-acting analog of GH-releasing hormone, in healthy adults. ↗
- Ionescu M, Frohman LA. Pulsatile secretion of GH persists during continuous stimulation by CJC-1295, a long-acting GH-releasing hormone analog. ↗
- Alba M, et al. Once-daily administration of CJC-1295, a long-acting GHRH analog, normalizes growth in the GHRH knockout mouse. ↗
Related compounds
CJC-1295 with Drug Affinity Complex. Extended half-life version providing sustained GH elevation. Once or twice weekly dosing.
Triple GH secretagogue blend combining CJC-1295 (no DAC / Mod GRF 1-29) with two ghrelin mimetics, ipamorelin and GHRP-2, for amplified synergistic GH release. Sold as a single 9mg lyophilized vial.
Pre-mixed blend of CJC-1295 (no DAC) and Ipamorelin for synergistic growth hormone release. Classic GH secretagogue combination sold as a single vial.