CJC-1295 vs Ipamorelin vs MOTS-c
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 →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 →MOTS-c
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA type-c) is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that plays a key role in metabolic regulation and has emerged as a significant longevity research target.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | CJC-1295 | Ipamorelin | MOTS-c |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | 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. | Activates AMPK pathway, enhances glucose uptake in skeletal muscle, improves insulin sensitivity, and regulates mitochondrial function. Acts as a metabolic hormone affecting whole-body energy homeostasis. |
| Typical Dosage | CJC-1295 DAC: 1-2mg weekly. CJC-1295 no DAC (Mod GRF 1-29): 100-300mcg 2-3 times daily. | Typical dosing ranges from 200-300mcg administered 2-3 times daily, often combined with CJC-1295. | Research protocols typically use 5-10mg administered subcutaneously several times per week. Optimal dosing not yet established. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, often combined with a GHRP like Ipamorelin for synergistic effects. Best administered before sleep or fasted. | Subcutaneous injection. Best results when administered fasted or before sleep. Often stacked with GHRH peptides. | Subcutaneous injection. Often combined with exercise protocols as it enhances exercise capacity and metabolic adaptation. |
| Side Effects | Water retention, tingling in extremities, potential increase in cortisol and prolactin levels. | Generally well-tolerated. May cause mild headaches, lightheadedness, or increased hunger initially. | Limited human data. Animal studies show good tolerability. May affect energy levels and exercise performance. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, MOTS-c are all commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to CJC-1295:
Unique to Ipamorelin:
Unique to MOTS-c:
Detailed Analysis
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 CJC-1295 and MOTS-c are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Which Should You Choose?
CJC-1295 has stronger evidence for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Commonalities
Both Ipamorelin and MOTS-c are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Which Should You Choose?
Ipamorelin has stronger evidence for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.