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.

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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.

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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.

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Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect	CJC-1295	Ipamorelin	MOTS-c
Dose Range	1 mg–2 mg	100 mcg–300 mcg	5 mg–10 mg
Frequency	Less than daily	2x daily	Less than daily
Cycle Length	8–12 weeks	8–12 weeks	8–12 weeks
Route	subcutaneous	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.	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	Muscle Growth Fat Loss Sleep Quality	Muscle Growth Fat Loss Recovery & Healing Sleep Quality	Muscle Growth Fat Loss Anti-Aging & Longevity