CJC-1295 vs IGF-1 LR3
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose 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 →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 | IGF-1 LR3 |
|---|---|---|
| Dose Range | 1 mg–2 mg | 20 mcg–100 mcg |
| Frequency | Less than daily | 1x daily |
| Cycle Length | 8–12 weeks | 4–6 weeks |
| Route | subcutaneous | subcutaneous |
| 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 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. | 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. | 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. | 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, IGF-1 LR3 are both commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to CJC-1295:
Unique to IGF-1 LR3:
Which Has Stronger Evidence?
- Fat Loss: CJC-1295 has stronger research support.
| Goal | CJC-1295 | IGF-1 LR3 |
|---|---|---|
| Muscle Growth | high | high |
| Fat Loss | high | medium |
Key Studies
CJC-1295
- A method for confirming CJC-1295 abuse in equine plasma samples by LC-MS/MS.
Drug testing and analysis, 2019
- An immuno polymerase chain reaction screen for the detection of CJC-1295 and other growth-hormone-releasing hormone analogs in equine plasma.
Drug testing and analysis, 2019
- Netnography of Female Use of the Synthetic Growth Hormone CJC-1295: Pulses and Potions.
Substance use & misuse, 2016
IGF-1 LR3
- IGF-1 LR3 does not promote growth in late-gestation growth-restricted fetal sheep.
American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolism, 2025
- Revolutionary decellularized Alstroemeria stem-based nerve conduit integrated with GelMA and controlled IGF-1 LR3 release for enhanced rat sciatic nerve regeneration.
International journal of biological macromolecules, 2025
- Attenuated glucose-stimulated insulin secretion during an acute IGF-1 LR3 infusion into fetal sheep does not persist in isolated islets.
Journal of developmental origins of health and disease, 2023
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