Back to all research

CJC-1295: What the Research Says

July 7, 2026

CJC-1295 is often discussed alongside other growth-hormone-releasing-hormone (GHRH) analogs, distinguished by its long duration of action. This overview summarizes what the published research reports, strictly within a laboratory-research context.

What Is CJC-1295?

CJC-1295 is a synthetic analog of GHRH. Its defining feature in the literature is a Drug Affinity Complex (DAC): a reactive group that covalently links the peptide to albumin in the bloodstream, extending its half-life from minutes to days. (A version without this modification is sometimes referred to as “CJC-1295 without DAC,” or modified GRF 1-29.)

Mechanisms Studied in Research

  • GHRH-receptor activity. As a GHRH analog, CJC-1295 has been studied for its association with growth-hormone release from the pituitary.
  • Extended half-life via albumin binding. The DAC technology is designed to keep the peptide active far longer than unmodified GHRH fragments.
  • Pulsatility. Research reports that, unlike exogenous GH, CJC-1295 was associated with preserved pulsatile GH release while increasing pulse amplitude and trough levels.

Areas of Investigation

A study in normal adult subjects reported that single injections were associated with multi-fold, multi-day increases in plasma GH and days-long elevations in IGF-1; animal studies have examined effects on growth and body composition in GH-deficient models. These are research findings, not endorsements of any human use.

The State of the Evidence

  • Limited and early. Human data are limited to small early studies; there is no comprehensive clinical-trial program establishing efficacy and long-term safety.
  • Regulatory status. CJC-1295 is not an FDA-approved drug and is investigational. Research-grade material is supplied for laboratory research use only.

Key Takeaways

  • CJC-1295 is a long-acting GHRH analog, with a DAC variant that binds albumin to extend its half-life to days.
  • Research has examined GH/IGF-1-axis effects and preserved GH pulsatility.
  • It is investigational, not FDA-approved, and offered strictly for laboratory research.

References

  • Teichman S.L. et al. “Activation of the GH/IGF-1 axis by CJC-1295, a long-acting GHRH analog, results in serum protein profile changes in normal adult subjects.” Growth Hormone & IGF Research / J. Clin. Endocrinol. Metab.
  • “Therapeutic peptides in gerontology: mechanisms and applications for healthy aging.” Frontiers in Aging, 2026.
  • “An immuno-PCR screen for the detection of CJC-1295 and other GHRH analogs.” PMID 30489688.

Research Use, Legal Status & Handling

Material supplied for research is intended for in-vitro laboratory research use only. It is not a dietary supplement, drug, cosmetic, or food. Where an approved pharmaceutical version of a compound exists, research-grade material is not that approved product and is not intended for human or veterinary consumption, diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any condition. Researchers are solely responsible for compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations in their jurisdiction. Research peptides are generally stored lyophilized, protected from light and heat, with reconstitution and handling performed per standard laboratory protocols.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for educational and informational purposes only and summarizes published laboratory and, where noted, clinical research. It is not medical advice or a recommendation for any form of use. Research-grade material is intended strictly for in-vitro research use only — not for human or veterinary consumption. Always consult a qualified professional regarding health-related questions.