CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin (Combo)
Growth Hormone Secretagogue CombinationresearchAlso known as: CJC/Ipa, CJC-1295/Ipamorelin Stack, GH Peptide Combo, The Gold Standard Stack
The most popular growth hormone peptide combination, pairing a GHRH analog (CJC-1295) with a ghrelin mimetic (Ipamorelin) for synergistic GH release with minimal side effects.
Overview
The CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin combination is widely considered the 'gold standard' peptide stack for growth hormone optimization. CJC-1295 (no DAC / Mod GRF 1-29) acts as a growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) analog that amplifies the GH pulse, while Ipamorelin acts as a growth hormone releasing peptide (GHRP) that initiates the pulse by mimicking ghrelin at the pituitary. Together, they produce a synergistic effect — releasing significantly more GH than either peptide alone — while maintaining the natural pulsatile pattern of GH secretion. This combination is preferred over other GHRP options (GHRP-2, GHRP-6, Hexarelin) because Ipamorelin causes minimal hunger stimulation, no cortisol or prolactin elevation, and fewer side effects. The combo is used for anti-aging, body composition improvement, sleep enhancement, recovery, and overall vitality.
Mechanism of Action
Dual-pathway GH release: (1) CJC-1295 binds GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotrophs, amplifying growth hormone synthesis and release via cAMP/PKA signaling; (2) Ipamorelin binds GHS-R1a (ghrelin receptors) on pituitary somatotrophs, initiating GH pulse through a complementary PLC/IP3/PKC pathway; (3) The two pathways converge synergistically, producing GH output greater than the sum of individual effects; (4) Combined signaling maintains natural pulsatile GH secretion rather than creating a sustained, unnatural elevation; (5) Downstream IGF-1 production increases from liver stimulation; (6) Ipamorelin selectively stimulates GH without significantly affecting ACTH, cortisol, or prolactin.
Molecular Formula
Combination product
Molecular Weight
CJC-1295: 3367.9 g/mol; Ipamorelin: 711.85 g/mol
Sequence
CJC-1295: Tyr-D-Ala-Asp-Ala-Ile-Phe-Thr-Gln-Ser-Tyr-Arg-Lys-Val-Leu-Ala-Gln-Leu-Ser-Ala-Arg-Lys-Leu-Leu-Gln-Asp-Ile-Leu-Ser-Arg-NH2; Ipamorelin: Aib-His-D-2-Nal-D-Phe-Lys-NH2
Dosage Protocols
Dose Range
100mcg CJC + 100mcg Ipa – 200mcg CJC + 200mcg Ipa
Frequency
Once daily at bedtime
Route
subcutaneous
Cycle Length
8-12 weeks on, 4 weeks off
Inject on an empty stomach (2+ hours fasted). Bedtime dosing amplifies natural nocturnal GH pulse. Avoid carbs/fats 30 min before and after injection.
Source: Clinical anti-aging protocols
🧮 Personalized Dosage Calculator
💰 Estimated Pricing
Typical Supply
Combination vial or separate vials
Last Updated
2026-02
Most popular GH-releasing combo. Telehealth: $150-350/mo. Compounding pharmacy combo vials available. Often prescribed together.
⚠️ Prices are estimates based on publicly available data and may vary significantly by vendor, location, and prescription status. This is not medical or financial advice.
Side Effects
| Effect | Severity |
|---|---|
| Injection site redness | mild |
| Head rush / flushing | mild |
| Water retention | mild |
| Numbness/tingling in extremities | mild |
| Hunger increase | mild |
| Vivid dreams | mild |
Pros & Cons
Synergistic GH release far exceeding either peptide alone — the most effective non-HGH GH optimization
Maintains natural pulsatile GH secretion pattern unlike exogenous HGH
Ipamorelin is the cleanest GHRP — no significant cortisol, prolactin, or appetite side effects
Broad benefits spanning sleep, body composition, recovery, skin, and anti-aging
Significantly less expensive than exogenous HGH therapy
Requires multiple daily subcutaneous injections for optimal results
Must be injected on an empty stomach for maximal GH release — timing can be inconvenient
GH levels produced are still lower than pharmacological HGH doses
Cycling is recommended to prevent pituitary desensitization
Not FDA-approved; regulatory and quality concerns with research-grade peptides
Research Studies
🩸 Blood Work
IGF-1
Primary marker for GH axis activity — combo produces strong GH release
Fasting Blood Glucose
GH secretagogues can impair insulin sensitivity
Fasting Insulin
Monitor for insulin resistance
Thyroid Panel (TSH, T3, T4)
GH can affect thyroid hormone conversion
Cortisol
Ipamorelin is selective but combo may affect HPA axis
Popular GH secretagogue combination. The GHRH + GHRP synergy produces stronger GH release than either alone. Monitor IGF-1 to ensure levels stay in a safe range.
Legal Status
Neither peptide is FDA-approved. Available through compounding pharmacies with prescription or as research chemicals. Banned by WADA for competitive athletes.
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