CJC-1295 DAC is a modified growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog designed for extended action. It is typically administered via subcutaneous injection, usually twice weekly, due to its long half-life. Dosing protocols often involve a gradual increase in dosage over several weeks.
- Long-acting GHRH analog due to DAC modification.
- Administered twice weekly via subcutaneous injection.
- Increases GH and IGF-1 levels.
- Dosage typically ranges from 300-1000 mcg per injection.
- Vials should be reconstituted with 2.0 mL bacteriostatic water.
Reconstitution
Vial strength
5 mg
Bacteriostatic water
2 mL
Concentration
2.5 mg/mL
1 unit = 0.01 mL = 25 mcg on a U-100 syringe
- 1Draw 2.0 mL bacteriostatic water using a sterile syringe.
- 2Inject the water slowly down the inside wall of the peptide vial, avoiding foaming.
- 3Gently swirl or roll the vial until the peptide is fully dissolved; do not shake.
- 4Label the reconstituted vial with the date and store in the refrigerator at 2-8 °C (35.6-46.4 °F), protected from light.
Dosing schedule
| Phase | Dose | On a U-100 syringe |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1-2 | 300 mcg | 12 units (0.12 mL) |
| Weeks 3-4 | 500 mcg | 20 units (0.20 mL) |
| Weeks 5-6 | 750 mcg | 30 units (0.30 mL) |
| Weeks 7-12 | 1000 mcg | 40 units (0.40 mL) |
Protocol detail
| Start | Begin with 300 mcg per injection twice weekly. Gradually increase the dose by approximately 250 mcg every two weeks, as tolerated. |
|---|---|
| Target | Aim for a dose of 750–1000 mcg per injection by Weeks 5–12. |
| Frequency | Inject twice per week subcutaneously, ensuring doses are spaced 3–4 days apart. |
| Cycle Length | The typical cycle lasts 8–12 weeks, with an optional extension to 16 weeks. |
| Timing | Maintain consistent injection timing (e.g., in the evenings) and remember to rotate injection sites regularly. |
Overview at a glance
| Goal | Support sustained GH and IGF-1 elevation for research into GH-axis effects. |
|---|---|
| Schedule | Twice-weekly subcutaneous injections for 8–12 weeks (extend to 16 weeks if desired). |
| Dose Range | 300–1000 mcg per injection with gradual titration. |
| Reconstitution | 2.0 mL per 5 mg vial (2.5 mg/mL) for accurate unit measurements. |
| Storage | Lyophilized frozen; reconstituted refrigerated; avoid repeated freeze–thaw. |
How it works
CJC-1295 DAC functions by mimicking the body’s natural growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), binding to receptors in the pituitary gland to stimulate a controlled release of growth hormone (GH). The 'DAC' modification is crucial as it allows the peptide to bind to albumin in the bloodstream, significantly extending its half-life to about 6-8 days. This sustained presence ensures a prolonged effect on GH secretion, which in turn leads to increased production of IGF-1, mediating various growth and metabolic processes while maintaining the body's natural pulsatile GH release patterns.
Reported effects
- Sustained elevation of GH and IGF-1.
- Potential for increased lean body mass.
- Possible reduction in fat mass.
- Improved body composition consistent with GH/IGF-1 axis activation.
- Enhanced protein synthesis and recovery potential.
Reported side effects
- Mild injection-site reactions (redness, swelling).
- Transient flushing.
- Headache.
- Water retention (initial titration).
Storage
Lyophilised (unmixed)
Store at -20 °C (-4 °F) in dry, dark conditions; minimize moisture exposure.
After reconstitution
Refrigerate at 2-8 °C (35.6-46.4 °F); stable for 2-4 weeks; avoid freeze-thaw cycles. Protect from light.
Supplies
| Peptide vials (CJC-1295 DAC, 5 mg each) | Approximately 3 vials for 8 weeks, 4 for 12 weeks, and 6 for 16 weeks. |
|---|---|
| Insulin Syringes (U-100) | 2 syringes per week (16 for 8 weeks, 24 for 12 weeks, 32 for 16 weeks). |
| Bacteriostatic Water (10 mL bottles) | At least one 10 mL bottle for up to 12 weeks; two for 16 weeks. |
| Alcohol Swabs | One 100-count box for any cycle length up to 16 weeks. |
Important notes
- Always use new, sterile insulin syringes and dispose of them properly in a sharps container.
- Rotate injection sites frequently (abdomen, thighs, upper arms) to prevent local irritation.
- Inject slowly and allow a few seconds before withdrawing the needle.
- Keep a record of each dose, injection site, and timing for consistency.
- The DAC modification ensures sustained release, making consistent twice-weekly scheduling effective.
Frequently asked questions
What is the primary difference between CJC-1295 DAC and other GHRH peptides?
The key difference is the 'DAC' (Drug Affinity Complex) modification in CJC-1295 DAC. This modification allows the peptide to bind to albumin, significantly extending its half-life to approximately 6-8 days. This enables less frequent dosing, typically twice weekly, compared to non-DAC GHRH analogs which often require daily or more frequent injections.
How should I store CJC-1295 DAC before and after reconstitution?
Before reconstitution, lyophilized CJC-1295 DAC should be stored frozen at -20 °C (-4 °F) in dry, dark conditions. Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, it must be refrigerated at 2-8 °C (35.6-46.4 °F) and is typically stable for 2-4 weeks. Always avoid freeze-thaw cycles for reconstituted peptide.
Is it possible to take CJC-1295 DAC only once a week?
While the DAC modification extends the half-life to 6-8 days, most protocols suggest twice-weekly dosing to support more consistent stimulation of GH and IGF-1. However, some research has explored once-weekly dosing. Any adjustment to frequency should be based on specific protocol requirements and individual response.
What volume of bacteriostatic water should be used for reconstitution?
For a 5 mg vial of CJC-1295 DAC, reconstitute with 2.0 mL of bacteriostatic water. This yields a concentration of 2.5 mg/mL (2500 mcg/mL), making it easy to measure doses using a U-100 insulin syringe where 1 unit equals 25 mcg.
Educational reference only. These figures summarise how CJC-1295 DAC is commonly described in research literature and supplier documentation, including the CJC-1295 DAC listing at peptidesuk4u.co.uk. They are not a prescription, not medical advice, and not a recommendation to self-administer anything.
Related protocols
CJC-1295 DAC (2 mg Vial)
Long-acting GHRH analog for sustained growth hormone release.
CJC-1295 NO DAC (5 mg Vial)
Stimulates natural growth hormone release for improved body composition and recovery.
GHRP-2 (10 mg Vial)
Potent growth hormone secretagogue mimicking ghrelin's action.
HGH 191AA (10IU Vial)
Recombinant human growth hormone for body composition and metabolic health.