CJC-1295 vs GHRP-2 vs IGF-1 LR3
A three-way comparison to help you find the right peptide for your research goals.
CJC-1295
CJC-1295 is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) that stimulates the pituitary gland to produce more growth hormone.
Full details →GHRP-2
Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide 2 (GHRP-2) is considered one of the most potent GHRPs available. It provides strong GH release with moderate hunger increase compared to GHRP-6.
Full details →IGF-1 LR3
IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3 Insulin-like Growth Factor-1) is a modified version of IGF-1 with extended half-life and enhanced potency. The modifications prevent binding to IGF binding proteins, increasing bioavailability.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | CJC-1295 | GHRP-2 | IGF-1 LR3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | CJC-1295 binds to GHRH receptors in the pituitary, triggering increased production and release of growth hormone. The DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) version extends half-life significantly. | Binds to the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R) to stimulate GH release from the pituitary. Also has some direct effects on the hypothalamus. Causes less appetite increase than GHRP-6. | Binds to IGF-1 receptors to promote protein synthesis, muscle growth, and fat metabolism. The LR3 modification (13 amino acid extension and arginine substitution) extends half-life from minutes to 20-30 hours. |
| Typical Dosage | CJC-1295 DAC: 1-2mg weekly. CJC-1295 no DAC (Mod GRF 1-29): 100-300mcg 2-3 times daily. | Typical dosing: 100-300mcg administered 2-3 times daily. Often stacked with GHRH peptides for enhanced GH release. | Research protocols typically use 20-100mcg daily, often divided into multiple injections or administered bilaterally to target muscles. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, often combined with a GHRP like Ipamorelin for synergistic effects. Best administered before sleep or fasted. | Subcutaneous injection on an empty stomach. Can be used at bedtime to enhance natural GH pulse during sleep. | Intramuscular injection (site-specific growth) or subcutaneous for systemic effects. Often cycled 4-6 weeks on, equal time off. |
| Side Effects | Water retention, tingling in extremities, potential increase in cortisol and prolactin levels. | Moderate hunger increase, water retention, potential prolactin and cortisol elevation (less than GHRP-6), tingling sensations. | Hypoglycemia, joint pain, water retention, potential jaw/hand growth with extended use, and injection site reactions. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
CJC-1295, GHRP-2, IGF-1 LR3 are all commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to CJC-1295:
Unique to GHRP-2:
Unique to IGF-1 LR3:
Detailed Analysis
Commonalities
Both CJC-1295 and GHRP-2 are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss, Sleep Quality.
Which Should You Choose?
CJC-1295 has stronger evidence for Fat Loss.
Commonalities
Both CJC-1295 and IGF-1 LR3 are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Which Should You Choose?
CJC-1295 has stronger evidence for Fat Loss.
Commonalities
Both GHRP-2 and IGF-1 LR3 are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Which Should You Choose?
Both peptides have similar evidence levels for their shared goals. Your choice may depend on specific use case, availability, or personal response.