CJC-1295 vs Tesamorelin
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 →Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It is FDA-approved under the brand name Egrifta for reducing excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | CJC-1295 | Tesamorelin |
|---|---|---|
| Dose Range | 1 mg–2 mg | 2 mg |
| Frequency | Less than daily | 1x daily |
| Cycle Length | 8–12 weeks | 8–52 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. | Stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone by binding to GHRH receptors. Increases IGF-1 levels which promotes lipolysis and reduces visceral adipose tissue. |
| Typical Dosage | CJC-1295 DAC: 1-2mg weekly. CJC-1295 no DAC (Mod GRF 1-29): 100-300mcg 2-3 times daily. | FDA-approved dose: 2mg administered subcutaneously once daily. Research protocols may use various dosing schedules. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, often combined with a GHRP like Ipamorelin for synergistic effects. Best administered before sleep or fasted. | Subcutaneous injection into the abdomen. Rotate injection sites. Best administered at the same time daily, preferably in the evening. |
| Side Effects | Water retention, tingling in extremities, potential increase in cortisol and prolactin levels. | Common side effects include injection site reactions (erythema, pruritus), joint pain, peripheral edema, and muscle pain. May cause elevated blood glucose. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
CJC-1295, Tesamorelin are both commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to CJC-1295:
Which Has Stronger Evidence?
- Muscle Growth: CJC-1295 has stronger research support.
| Goal | CJC-1295 | Tesamorelin |
|---|---|---|
| Muscle Growth | high | medium |
| Fat Loss | high | high |
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
Tesamorelin
- Tesamorelin as an Adjunct to Exercise for Improving Physical Function in HIV (TRIUMPH): a clinical trial protocol.
BMJ open, 2026
- Effects of Tesamorelin on Neurocognitive Impairment in Persons With HIV and Abdominal Obesity.
The Journal of infectious diseases, 2025
- Efficacy and safety of tesamorelin in people with HIV on integrase inhibitors.
AIDS (London, England), 2024
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