CJC-1295 vs IGF-1 LR3 vs Sermorelin
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 →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 →Sermorelin
Sermorelin is a synthetic analog of GHRH consisting of the first 29 amino acids of the natural hormone. It was previously FDA-approved for GH deficiency diagnosis and treatment in children.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | CJC-1295 | IGF-1 LR3 | Sermorelin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | Binds to GHRH receptors in the pituitary gland to stimulate natural GH production and release. Maintains the body's natural feedback mechanisms for GH regulation. |
| 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. | Typical dosing: 200-500mcg administered once daily, usually before bed. Some protocols use twice daily dosing. |
| 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. | Subcutaneous injection, preferably at bedtime to work with natural GH release patterns. Can be combined with GHRPs for synergistic effects. |
| 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. | Generally well-tolerated. May cause injection site reactions, headache, flushing, or dizziness. Less side effects than direct GH administration. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
CJC-1295, IGF-1 LR3, Sermorelin are all commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to CJC-1295:
Unique to IGF-1 LR3:
Unique to Sermorelin:
Detailed Analysis
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 CJC-1295 and Sermorelin are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss, Sleep Quality.
Which Should You Choose?
CJC-1295 has stronger evidence for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Commonalities
Both IGF-1 LR3 and Sermorelin are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss, Recovery & Healing.
Which Should You Choose?
IGF-1 LR3 has stronger evidence for Muscle Growth.