Longevity & anti-aging

CJC-1295

Also known as CJC-1295 DAC, Modified GRF 1-29, Drug Affinity Complex

Written by Matt Ward — I run these protocols myself and built Optim to track them.

A synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog with a Drug Affinity Complex that extends its half-life. CJC-1295 stimulates pulsatile GH release for improved body composition, sleep, and recovery. Often combined with Ipamorelin.

Typical dose1000-2000 mcg (DAC) or 100 mcg (no DAC)
FrequencyOnce or twice weekly (DAC) or nightly (no DAC)
Half-life~6-8 days (DAC), ~30 min (no DAC)
Cycle length8-16 weeks
Research levelextensive
Prescription requiredYes

Mechanism of action

Binds to GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotrophs, stimulating cAMP-mediated GH synthesis and release. The DAC modification binds to albumin, extending the half-life from minutes to days.

What this means in practice

The single most important distinction is DAC versus no-DAC, and it changes everything about how the compound is used. The Drug Affinity Complex binds to albumin and stretches the half-life from minutes to days, which is why DAC versions are dosed weekly at 1000–2000 mcg while no-DAC (Modified GRF 1-29) is dosed at around 100 mcg several times daily. Confusing the two is the most common dosing error with this compound. It is almost always paired with a ghrelin agonist such as Ipamorelin, because the two act on separate receptors.

Reported side effects

Commonly stacked with

Ipamorelin · Longevity & anti-agingMK-677 · Muscle growthTesamorelin · Fat loss & metabolic

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This page is informational and summarises publicly available research. It is not medical advice, not a prescription, and not a recommendation to use any compound. Most compounds described here are not approved by the FDA for human use. Legal status varies by jurisdiction and is yours to determine. Talk to a qualified clinician before starting, stopping, or changing any protocol. For adults 18+. Optim does not sell, source, or recommend suppliers.