CJC-1295 vs Ipamorelin
They are often mentioned together, but act on two different receptors. That difference is what this comparison is about.
| CJC-1295 | Ipamorelin | |
|---|---|---|
| Class | GHRH analogue (modified GRF 1-29) | GHRP / ghrelin receptor agonist |
| Receptor | The GHRH receptor | GHSR (the ghrelin receptor) |
| DAC modification | Without DAC – short-acting | Not applicable |
| Mechanism studied | GHRH analogue action and GH release | GH response, GHSR signalling and analytical detection |
| Reported half-life | Shorter than CJC-1295 with DAC; the value depends on the analogue and model | Short; studied in infusion studies in volunteers |
What the difference means
Two different entry points to the same axis: CJC-1295 acts through the GHRH receptor, Ipamorelin through the ghrelin receptor. They are studied together precisely because the pathways differ – one serves as a contrast to the other. We give no recommendation on combination or use.
Two receptors, one axis
Growth hormone release is regulated by several signalling pathways. The GHRH receptor is the classic one, and CJC-1295 (no DAC) is an analogue of GHRH(1-29) that acts there.
Ipamorelin belongs to a different family. It is a selective agonist of the ghrelin receptor (GHSR), which influences the same axis from a different angle. That is why the two are not variants of each other, but complementary tools.
What "no DAC" actually means
DAC stands for Drug Affinity Complex – a modification that lets the peptide bind to albumin in the blood and thereby circulate considerably longer. CJC-1295 exists in both variants.
The variant we stock is without DAC, i.e. short-acting. This is a real difference in pharmacokinetics, and literature on CJC-1295 with DAC cannot be read as if it applied to this variant.
Why Ipamorelin's selectivity is mentioned
Within the GHRP family, Ipamorelin is described as relatively selective in its action on GHSR. That is the property the literature most often highlights, because selectivity makes observations easier to attribute to a single signalling pathway.
Both are supplied lyophilised with a batch number and certificate of analysis, for research use only.
Frequently asked questions
Do CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin work the same way?
No. CJC-1295 is a GHRH analogue and acts on the GHRH receptor. Ipamorelin is a ghrelin receptor agonist and acts on GHSR.
What does "no DAC" mean?
DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) is a modification that binds the peptide to albumin and considerably extends its circulation time. The variant without DAC is short-acting, and literature on the DAC variant does not apply to this one.
Can they be used together?
They appear in comparative set-ups in the literature because they act on different receptors. We give no recommendation on combination, dosing or use.
All material is sold exclusively for research purposes and laboratory use. This page gives no dosing, instructions for use or health claims. Read more about safety and regulation.

