Last updated: June 3, 2026
What the stack is
The CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin combination is the most-studied peptide stack in the growth hormone class. The two peptides work on different pathways and produce additive effect when used together.
Mechanism
CJC-1295 is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It binds the GHRH receptor on pituitary somatotrophs, stimulating production and release of growth hormone. Two variants exist: without DAC (Drug Affinity Complex; short half-life ~30 min) and with DAC (covalently binds albumin; half-life ~6-8 days).
Ipamorelin is a selective ghrelin/GHS-R1a receptor agonist (GHRP). It triggers release of stored GH from the pituitary without raising cortisol, prolactin, or stimulating appetite the way older GHRPs do.
Combined, GHRH signaling (CJC-1295) increases GH production while GHRP signaling (Ipamorelin) triggers release — a synergistic amplification of pulsatile GH output.
CJC-1295 with DAC vs without DAC
Two distinct dosing protocols exist:
- CJC-1295 no DAC + Ipamorelin daily: Both peptides 2-3x daily, often pre-bed and pre-workout. Mimics natural pulsatile GH release. ~100mcg CJC-1295 + 200-300mcg Ipamorelin per dose.
- CJC-1295 with DAC weekly + Ipamorelin daily: CJC-DAC dosed 1-2mg weekly providing sustained baseline; Ipamorelin still dosed 2-3x daily for pulse amplification.
Why this combination over alternatives
Older GHRPs (GHRP-2, GHRP-6, Hexarelin) raise cortisol and prolactin meaningfully. Ipamorelin’s receptor selectivity makes it the cleanest pairing partner. The CJC-1295 (GHRH) + Ipamorelin (GHRP) combination provides amplified GH release without the endocrine disruption of older stacks.
Reported effects in research literature
- Increased nocturnal GH pulses (measurable within 15-30 min of injection)
- IGF-1 elevation detectable on lab work within 2-4 weeks
- Improved sleep quality (subjective reports)
- Modest changes in body composition with continued use (8-12 week cycles)
Safety profile
Compared to exogenous GH therapy, the GHRH/GHRP stack maintains pituitary feedback loops and is reported to have lower risk of receptor desensitization. Side effects typically reported: mild injection-site reactions, vivid dreams, occasional water retention, mild hunger. Selective ipamorelin avoids the appetite stimulation of GHRP-6 and the cortisol elevation of hexarelin.
How often should the stack be dosed?<br />
Most protocols use 2-3 daily injections of both peptides (with no-DAC CJC-1295), or weekly CJC-1295-DAC plus daily Ipamorelin.
How long are typical cycles?<br />
8-12 weeks on, 4 weeks off. This cycling allows endogenous regulation to reset.
Why pre-bedtime dosing?<br />
Endogenous GH release peaks during the first 1-2 hours of slow-wave sleep. Pre-bed injection amplifies (rather than competes with) the natural pulse.
Can other peptides be added to the stack?<br />
Some protocols add BPC-157 (tissue repair) or TB-500 (recovery). These act on different pathways and don’t interact pharmacologically with the GHRH/GHRP stack.
Related guides: Sermorelin vs Ipamorelin · Best peptides for muscle growth · Peptide stacks guide