CJC-1295 DAC (2 mg Vial) Dosage Protocol
Quickstart Highlights
CJC-1295 DAC is a long-acting synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). The DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) modification binds reversibly to albumin, extending the peptide’s half-life to approximately 6–8 days[1]. By stimulating pituitary GHRH receptors, CJC-1295 DAC increases GH secretion and circulating IGF-1 in a dose-dependent manner[2]. This educational protocol presents a twice-weekly subcutaneous approach using a practical dilution for clear insulin-syringe measurements.
- Reconstitute: Add 2.0 mL bacteriostatic water → 1 mg/mL (1000 mcg/mL) concentration.
- Typical dose range: 300–1000 mcg per injection, twice weekly (gradual titration).
- Easy measuring: At 1 mg/mL, 1 unit = 0.01 mL = 10 mcg on a U-100 insulin syringe.
- Storage: Lyophilized: freeze at −20 °C (−4 °F); after reconstitution, refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F); avoid freeze–thaw cycles.
Dosing & Reconstitution Guide
Educational guide for reconstitution and twice-weekly dosing
Standard / Gradual Approach (2 mL = 1000 mcg/mL)
| Week | Per-Injection Dose (mcg) | Units (per injection) (mL) | Weekly Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–2 | 300 mcg (0.3 mg) | 30 units (0.30 mL) | 600 mcg/week |
| Weeks 3–4 | 500 mcg (0.5 mg) | 50 units (0.50 mL) | 1000 mcg/week |
| Weeks 5–6 | 750 mcg (0.75 mg) | 75 units (0.75 mL) | 1500 mcg/week |
| Weeks 7–12 | 1000 mcg (1 mg) | 100 units (1.0 mL) | 2000 mcg/week |
Frequency: Inject twice weekly subcutaneously (e.g., Monday/Thursday or Tuesday/Friday). The extended 6–8-day half-life from the DAC modification supports less frequent dosing compared to non-DAC GHRH analogs[1][2]. Once-weekly dosing is also studied; adjust frequency based on protocol requirements.
Reconstitution Steps
- Draw 2.0 mL bacteriostatic water with a sterile syringe.
- Inject slowly down the vial wall; avoid foaming.
- Gently swirl/roll until dissolved (do not shake).
- Label and refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F), protected from light.
Supplies Needed
Plan based on an 8–16 week twice-weekly protocol with gradual titration.
-
Peptide Vials (CJC-1295 DAC, 2 mg each):
- 8 weeks ≈ 6 vials
- 12 weeks ≈ 10 vials
- 16 weeks ≈ 14 vials
-
Insulin Syringes (U-100):
- Per week: 2 syringes (twice weekly)
- 8 weeks: 16 syringes
- 12 weeks: 24 syringes
- 16 weeks: 32 syringes
-
Bacteriostatic Water (10 mL bottles): Use ~2.0 mL per vial for reconstitution.
- 8 weeks (6 vials): 12 mL → 2 × 10 mL bottles
- 12 weeks (10 vials): 20 mL → 2 × 10 mL bottles
- 16 weeks (14 vials): 28 mL → 3 × 10 mL bottles
-
Alcohol Swabs: One for the vial stopper + one for the injection site each injection.
- Per week: 4 swabs (2 per injection × 2 injections)
- 8 weeks: 32 swabs → recommend 1 × 100-count box
- 12 weeks: 48 swabs → recommend 1 × 100-count box
- 16 weeks: 64 swabs → recommend 1 × 100-count box
Protocol Overview
Concise summary of the twice-weekly regimen.
- Goal: Support sustained GH and IGF-1 elevation for research into GH-axis effects[1].
- Schedule: Twice-weekly subcutaneous injections for 8–12 weeks (extend to 16 weeks if desired).
- Dose Range: 300–1000 mcg per injection with gradual titration.
- Reconstitution: 2.0 mL per 2 mg vial (1 mg/mL) for accurate unit measurements.
- Storage: Lyophilized frozen; reconstituted refrigerated; avoid repeated freeze–thaw.
Dosing Protocol
Suggested twice-weekly titration approach.
- Start: 300 mcg per injection twice weekly; increase by ~250 mcg every 2 weeks as tolerated.
- Target: 750–1000 mcg per injection by Weeks 5–12.
- Frequency: Twice per week (subcutaneous), spaced 3–4 days apart.
- Cycle Length: 8–12 weeks; optional extension to 16 weeks.
- Timing: Consistent timing (e.g., evenings); rotate injection sites.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage preserves peptide quality.
- Lyophilized: Store at −20 °C (−4 °F) in dry, dark conditions; minimize moisture exposure.
- Reconstituted: Refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F); stable for 2–4 weeks; avoid freeze–thaw.
- Allow vials to reach room temperature before opening to reduce condensation uptake.
Important Notes
Practical considerations for consistency and safety.
- Use new sterile insulin syringes; dispose in a sharps container.
- Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thighs, upper arms) to reduce local irritation.
- Inject slowly; wait a few seconds before withdrawing the needle.
- Document each dose, injection site, and timing to maintain consistency.
- The DAC modification provides sustained release; maintain consistent twice-weekly scheduling.
How This Works
CJC-1295 DAC mimics endogenous GHRH, binding to GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotrophs to drive GH release[2]. The DAC modification (albumin-binding moiety) keeps the GHRH analog circulating for days rather than minutes, extending the half-life to approximately 6–8 days[1]. The resulting GH surge stimulates IGF-1 production (primarily in the liver); IGF-1 then mediates many growth and metabolic effects through JAK/STAT signaling pathways[4]. Notably, pulsatile GH secretion persists even during continuous CJC-1295 stimulation, preserving physiological release patterns[2].
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
Observations from preclinical and clinical literature.
- Supports sustained elevation of GH and IGF-1 in a dose-dependent manner[1].
- May promote increased lean body mass, reduced fat mass, and improved body composition consistent with GH/IGF-1 axis activation[4][9].
- Enhanced protein synthesis and recovery potential through anabolic signaling[4].
- Generally well tolerated in clinical studies; occasional mild injection-site reactions (redness, swelling) may occur[1].
- Some individuals report transient flushing, headache, or water retention during initial titration.
Lifestyle Factors
Complementary strategies for best outcomes.
- Pair with a balanced, protein-forward diet tailored to energy and recovery needs.
- Combine resistance training and aerobic activity to reinforce GH-mediated adaptations.
- Prioritize quality sleep (7–9 hours) as endogenous GH release peaks during deep sleep[4].
- Manage stress to support hormonal balance and adherence.
Injection Technique
General subcutaneous guidance from clinical best-practice resources[5][6].
- Clean the vial stopper and skin with alcohol; allow to dry.
- Pinch a skinfold; insert the needle at 45–90° into subcutaneous tissue[5][8].
- Do not aspirate for subcutaneous injections; inject slowly and steadily[5].
- Rotate sites systematically (abdomen, thighs, upper arms) to avoid lipohypertrophy[6][7].
- Do not rub or massage the injection site after administration[8].
Recommended Source
We recommend Pure Lab Peptides for high-purity CJC-1295 DAC (2 mg).
Why Pure Lab Peptides?
- High-purity, third-party-tested lots with batch COAs.
- Consistent, ISO-aligned handling and documentation.
- Reliable fulfillment to maintain cold-chain integrity.
Important Note
This content is intended for therapeutic educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References
-
J Clin Endocrinol Metab (2006)
— Teichman SL et al. Prolonged stimulation of GH and IGF-1 by CJC-1295 in healthy adults -
J Clin Endocrinol Metab (2006)
— Ionescu M et al. Pulsatile GH secretion persists during continuous CJC-1295 stimulation -
Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab (2006)
— Alba M et al. Once-daily CJC-1295 normalizes growth in GHRH knockout mouse -
StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf)
— Brinkman JE et al. Physiology, Growth Hormone -
CDC Pink Book (Chapter 6)
— Vaccine administration: subcutaneous route (angle/site; no aspiration) -
Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center
— How to give a subcutaneous injection (patient guidance) -
StatPearls (NCBI Bookshelf)
— Regular Insulin: subcutaneous administration and site rotation -
Immunize Canada
— How to Vaccinate: Best Practices (subcutaneous injection technique) -
Postgrad Med J (2006)
— Ayuk J, Sheppard MC. Growth hormone and its disorders -
Pure Lab Peptides
— CJC-1295 DAC (2 mg) product page (quality and batch documentation)