CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin Dosage Calculator
Calculate your CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin doses for solo or stacked use. DAC vs no-DAC options with timing protocols.
What are CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin?
CJC-1295 is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release more growth hormone in a pulsatile fashion. It is available in two forms: with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex), which extends its half-life to approximately 8 days, and without DAC (also known as Mod GRF 1-29), which has a shorter half-life of about 30 minutes and creates more natural GH pulses.
Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) that mimics ghrelin and binds to the ghrelin receptor in the pituitary gland. Unlike other GH secretagogues such as GHRP-6 or GHRP-2, Ipamorelin does not significantly increase cortisol, prolactin, or appetite at standard doses. This makes it one of the cleanest and most side-effect-friendly GH peptides available.
Together, CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin create what is widely considered the gold standard GH peptide stack. CJC-1295 amplifies the GH pulse by stimulating GHRH receptors, while Ipamorelin triggers the pulse through the ghrelin pathway. This dual-mechanism approach results in a synergistic GH release that is significantly greater than either peptide used alone, making the stack highly effective for anti-aging, muscle growth, fat loss, and recovery. To check how this stack interacts with other peptides, use the interaction checker. For a full weekly schedule, build your protocol in the stack calculator.
DAC vs No-DAC: What's the Difference?
The Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) is a chemical modification added to CJC-1295 that dramatically extends its half-life. Without DAC, CJC-1295 (Mod GRF 1-29) has a half-life of roughly 30 minutes, meaning it creates a sharp, pulsatile GH release similar to what the body does naturally. With DAC, the half-life extends to approximately 8 days, providing a sustained and steady elevation of GH levels throughout the week.
The no-DAC version requires multiple daily injections (typically 2-3x per day) but is preferred by many users because it mimics the body's natural pulsatile GH secretion pattern. This pulsatile release is believed to be more effective for fat loss and muscle growth. The DAC version, on the other hand, requires only 1-2 injections per week, making it far more convenient for users who prioritize simplicity. However, the constant GH elevation from DAC may lead to more water retention and desensitization over time.
How to Use This Calculator
- 1.Select your peptide: CJC-1295 alone, Ipamorelin alone, or the full stack. The stack is the most popular option for maximizing GH release.
- 2.If using CJC-1295, choose between DAC (once-weekly convenience) or no-DAC/Mod GRF 1-29 (multiple daily injections for more natural GH pulses).
- 3.Select your experience level. Beginners receive lower starting doses and fewer daily injections. Advanced users get higher doses with 3x daily protocols.
- 4.Choose your primary goal. This adjusts the protocol notes and timing recommendations to align with your specific objectives.
CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin Quick Reference
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to inject CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin?
For CJC-1295 without DAC and Ipamorelin, the most effective times are in the morning on an empty stomach and before bed. These align with your natural GH pulses. If using a third daily dose, add it post-workout. CJC-1295 with DAC can be injected at any time since it maintains steady levels throughout the week.
Do I need to fast before injecting?
Yes, for CJC-1295 without DAC and Ipamorelin, you should fast for at least 1-2 hours before and 30 minutes after injection. Food, especially carbohydrates and fats, can blunt the GH release by raising insulin and free fatty acids. CJC-1295 with DAC is less sensitive to food timing due to its sustained release mechanism.
Should I use CJC-1295 with DAC or without DAC?
It depends on your preference for convenience vs. precision. CJC-1295 with DAC only requires 1-2 injections per week and maintains steady GH elevation. Without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29) requires 2-3 daily injections but creates more natural GH pulses. Most users who stack with Ipamorelin prefer the no-DAC version for more pronounced pulsatile release.
Do I need to cycle CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin?
Yes, cycling is recommended to prevent receptor desensitization. A common protocol is 8-12 weeks on, followed by 4 weeks off. Some users run 5 days on, 2 days off each week. With DAC versions, cycling is even more important since the peptide remains active for extended periods.
What are the common side effects?
The most common side effects include water retention, tingling or numbness in the hands (from elevated GH), increased hunger (especially with Ipamorelin), mild headaches, and tiredness. These are typically mild and subside within the first 1-2 weeks. If you experience persistent side effects, reduce your dose or frequency.
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