CJC-1295 vs GHRP-2 vs Ipamorelin
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 →Ipamorelin
Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates the release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland without significantly affecting cortisol or prolactin.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | CJC-1295 | GHRP-2 | Ipamorelin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | Acts as a ghrelin mimetic, binding to the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R) in the pituitary to stimulate GH release. Highly selective with minimal effect on other hormones. |
| 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. | Typical dosing ranges from 200-300mcg administered 2-3 times daily, often combined with CJC-1295. |
| 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. | Subcutaneous injection. Best results when administered fasted or before sleep. Often stacked with GHRH peptides. |
| 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. | Generally well-tolerated. May cause mild headaches, lightheadedness, or increased hunger initially. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
CJC-1295, GHRP-2, Ipamorelin are all commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to Ipamorelin:
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 Ipamorelin are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss, Sleep Quality.
Which Should You Choose?
Ipamorelin has stronger evidence for Sleep Quality.
Commonalities
Both GHRP-2 and Ipamorelin are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss, Sleep Quality.
Which Should You Choose?
Ipamorelin has stronger evidence for Fat Loss, Sleep Quality.