Growth Hormone Secretagogues: CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin

Overview

Growth hormone (GH) production declines approximately 14% per decade after age 30. CJC-1295 (a modified GHRH analog with DAC extension for longer half-life) and Ipamorelin (a selective growth hormone secretagogue receptor agonist) are frequently combined to stimulate pulsatile GH release that mimics natural physiology.

Mechanism of Action

These peptides work through complementary receptors:

• CJC-1295 (GHRH Pathway): Binds the GHRH receptor on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary, amplifying the amplitude of GH pulses. The DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) modification extends its half-life from minutes to approximately 8 days.
• Ipamorelin (Ghrelin Pathway): Selectively activates the GHS-R1a receptor without significantly raising cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH — unlike older secretagogues like GHRP-6. This selectivity produces a cleaner GH pulse.
• Synergistic Effect: Combined stimulation of both GHRH and ghrelin pathways produces 3-5x greater GH release than either peptide alone, while maintaining the hypothalamic-pituitary negative feedback loop.

Clinical Applications

The CJC-1295/Ipamorelin combination is prescribed for improved sleep architecture (deeper stage 3/4 sleep), lean body mass, fat metabolism, recovery acceleration, and skin/hair quality. KAYU physicians prescribe 100-300mcg of each peptide nightly via subcutaneous injection, typically 30-60 minutes before sleep.

IGF-1 Response

GH pulses stimulate hepatic IGF-1 production, which mediates many of GH's downstream effects. Monitoring serum IGF-1 at 30 and 90 days guides dose titration. Target ranges are age- and sex-dependent.