CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin
GHRH analog + selective GH secretagogue
The most commonly studied GH-axis pairing, combining a GHRH analog with a ghrelin-receptor secretagogue for a pulsatile GH release.
How it works
This combination pairs CJC-1295, a GHRH analog, with ipamorelin, a selective ghrelin receptor agonist, to approximate a more physiologic, pulsatile pattern of growth hormone release than either compound achieves alone. CJC-1295 binds GHRH receptors in the pituitary, raising the baseline signal for GH synthesis and release.
Ipamorelin then activates the GHS-R1a receptor to trigger a distinct, sharp pulse of GH secretion. Because ipamorelin is highly selective for this receptor, researchers report it produces a clean pulse without the meaningful cortisol or prolactin elevation seen with older, less selective secretagogues like GHRP-2 or GHRP-6.
Together, the two signals are studied for producing sustained elevations in circulating GH and downstream IGF-1, which researchers use as a proxy for evaluating effects on body composition, sleep architecture, and recovery capacity in longer research blocks.
What research has shown
Studies report sustained increases in GH and IGF-1 levels with the combination, with a receptor-selectivity profile favorable versus older secretagogues.
Reported ranges in the literature
Low end
100 mcg / 100 mcg once nightly
Optimal
200 mcg / 200 mcg once nightly before sleep
High end
300 mcg / 300 mcg, or 200/200 twice daily
Frequency reported in the literature: Nightly on an empty stomach; 8 to 12 week blocks. Note: Administration away from food is emphasized to avoid blunting the GH pulse.
Frequently asked questions
What is the CJC-1295 and ipamorelin combination?
It pairs a GHRH analog, CJC-1295, with a selective ghrelin receptor agonist, ipamorelin, to study a more pulsatile pattern of growth hormone release.
How does this combination differ from sermorelin alone?
Sermorelin acts only on the GHRH receptor, similar to the CJC-1295 component here. Adding ipamorelin introduces a second, distinct receptor pathway, which research suggests produces a stronger combined GH pulse than a GHRH analog alone.
What does the research show?
Studies report sustained increases in GH and IGF-1 levels with this combination, along with a receptor-selectivity profile that compares favorably to older secretagogue compounds.
How is this blend typically studied?
Published protocols generally describe nightly administration on an empty stomach, since food intake is reported to blunt the GH pulse.
How long are research blocks typically?
Reported research blocks commonly run 8 to 12 weeks to allow IGF-1 and body composition markers to stabilize.
Related compounds
Further reading
Research use only
All content on this page is general reference information for laboratory research contexts. It is not medical advice, is not intended to direct human use, and does not replace guidance from a licensed healthcare professional. Not for human consumption. Must be 18+.