CJC-1295 vs MOTS-c
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 →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 | MOTS-c |
|---|---|---|
| Dose Range | 1 mg–2 mg | 5 mg–10 mg |
| Frequency | Less than daily | Less than daily |
| Cycle Length | 8–12 weeks | 8–12 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. | 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. | 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. 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. | Limited human data. Animal studies show good tolerability. May affect energy levels and exercise performance. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
CJC-1295, MOTS-c are both commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to CJC-1295:
Unique to MOTS-c:
Which Has Stronger Evidence?
- Muscle Growth: CJC-1295 has stronger research support.
- Fat Loss: CJC-1295 has stronger research support.
| Goal | CJC-1295 | MOTS-c |
|---|---|---|
| Muscle Growth | high | low |
| 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
MOTS-c
- MOTS-c improves intrinsic muscle mitochondrial bioenergetic health and efficiency in a PGC-1α/AMPK-dependent manner.
Free radical biology & medicine, 2026
- MOTS-c attenuates lung ischemia-reperfusion injury via MYH9-Dependent nuclear translocation and transcriptional activation of antioxidant genes.
Redox biology, 2025
- MOTS-c: Magical Molecule for Diabetic Cardiomyopathy?
Cardiovascular drugs and therapy, 2025
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