Two different mechanisms that are usually combined rather than chosen between.
These are not alternatives — they act on different receptors. CJC-1295 is a GHRH analogue; ipamorelin is a selective ghrelin-receptor agonist. Choosing between them is the wrong question, which is why they are sold together as a blend.
| CJC-1295 (no DAC) | Ipamorelin | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Mod GRF 1-29, Sermorelin analogue | GHRP, selective ghrelin receptor agonist |
| Evidence tier | Preclinical | Preclinical |
| Route | Subcutaneous | Subcutaneous |
| Half-life | ~30 min | ~2 h |
| Vial sizes | 10 mg | 10 mg |
| Water we suggest | 3 mL | 3 mL |
| Reported doses | 100 mcg, 100 mcg, 200 mcg | 100 mcg, 200 mcg, 300 mcg |
| Has a schedule | no | no |
Earlier ghrelin-receptor agonists such as GHRP-6 also raised cortisol, prolactin and appetite. Ipamorelin was developed to avoid that, and selectivity rather than potency is the reason it is the common choice.
The CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin blend is a single vial containing both. Its dose figures are stated per compound, so a 200 mcg total means 100 mcg of each.