CJC-1295 with DAC — Extended GHRH Analog — Growth Hormone
Modified GHRH analog with drug affinity complex (DAC) providing extended half-life. Research peptide not FDA-approved.
Overview
CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) consisting of the first 29 amino acids of GHRH (GRF 1-29) with four amino acid substitutions for protease resistance and a maleimidopropionic acid-lysine linker (DAC) that covalently binds to serum albumin in vivo. This albumin binding dramatically extends the half-life from approximately 30 minutes (native GHRH) to 5-8 days, enabling once-weekly or twice-weekly dosing. In Phase 2 clinical studies, CJC-1295 with DAC at 30-60 mcg/kg subcutaneously increased mean GH levels by 2-10 fold and IGF-1 levels by 1.5-3 fold for up to 6-14 days following a single injection. The sustained elevation provides continuous GH stimulation rather than pulsatile release, which may be less physiologic than short-acting GHRH analogs. Clinical development was discontinued after a participant death occurred during a Phase 2 trial, though the death was attributed to cardiovascular causes and may not have been directly related to the study drug. CJC-1295 with DAC remains available from peptide research suppliers and is used in the anti-aging and bodybuilding communities despite its lack of regulatory approval.
Indications
- Investigational: GH deficiency (clinical development discontinued)
- Unapproved: GH optimization and anti-aging
- Unapproved: Body composition improvement
Mechanism of Action
CJC-1295 retains the first 29 amino acids of native GHRH with substitutions at positions 2, 8, 15, and 27 for enhanced protease resistance
Dosing
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| CJC-1295 with DAC | 2 mg | Once weekly | Common research/anti-aging dose — NOT from clinical trials |
| CJC-1295 with DAC | 30-60 mcg/kg | Once or twice weekly | Phase 2 clinical trial dose range |
Evidence Grade
GRADE C
Safety & Contraindications
- Clinical development discontinued after participant death (cause uncertain)
- Sustained GH elevation — may lack physiologic pulsatility
- Injection site reactions
- Fluid retention, arthralgias, paresthesias (GH-related)
- IGF-1 elevation may be prolonged due to long half-life
- Not FDA-approved — research peptide only
- Quality concerns with non-pharmaceutical sources