CJC-1295 vs Ipamorelin vs Retatrutide

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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Retatrutide

Retatrutide (LY3437943) is a first-in-class triple agonist peptide targeting GIP, GLP-1, and glucagon receptors simultaneously. Developed by Eli Lilly, it is currently in Phase 3 clinical trials and has demonstrated the highest weight loss of any obesity medication to date — up to 28.7% body weight reduction at 48 weeks. The triple-receptor mechanism represents the next evolution beyond dual agonists like tirzepatide.

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Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect	CJC-1295	Ipamorelin	Retatrutide
Dose Range	1 mg–2 mg	100 mcg–300 mcg	4 mg–12 mg
Frequency	Less than daily	2x daily	Less than daily
Cycle Length	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.	Retatrutide is a synthetic peptide that activates three incretin/metabolic hormone receptors: (1) GLP-1 receptor — appetite suppression, insulin secretion, delayed gastric emptying, (2) GIP receptor — enhanced insulin sensitivity, improved fat metabolism, (3) Glucagon receptor — increased energy expenditure, hepatic fat mobilization, thermogenesis. The glucagon receptor component is the key differentiator, adding an energy-expenditure mechanism absent from GLP-1 and dual GIP/GLP-1 agonists. The molecule uses a C20 fatty diacid for albumin binding, enabling once-weekly dosing.
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.	Phase 2 trial doses: 0.5 mg, 4 mg, 8 mg, and 12 mg weekly. The 12 mg dose produced maximum weight loss (28.7%). Phase 3 trials are evaluating doses up to 12 mg. Dose escalation schedule similar to other GLP-1s (start low, increase every 4 weeks). Final approved dosing not yet established — Phase 3 trials ongoing.
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, once weekly. Phase 3 trials use pre-filled single-dose pens. Not yet commercially available — estimated FDA approval ~2027-2028.
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.	Phase 2 data: nausea (up to 25%), diarrhea (up to 22%), vomiting (up to 15%), constipation, decreased appetite. GI side effects were dose-dependent and generally mild-to-moderate. Lower rates of nausea compared to semaglutide, potentially due to GIP component. Increased heart rate observed at higher doses.
Best For	Muscle Growth Fat Loss Sleep Quality	Muscle Growth Fat Loss Recovery & Healing Sleep Quality	Weight Loss Diabetes Management