CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin are two of the most consistently sourced peptides in the Canadian research market. They show up together so often that researchers new to the space sometimes assume they’re the same compound or that one requires the other. They’re not and it doesn’t, but there are reasons why they’re frequently discussed together.
This guide covers both compounds separately and explains why researchers often look at them in tandem.
What is CJC-1295?
CJC-1295 is a synthetic analogue of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH). GHRH is a naturally occurring peptide produced in the hypothalamus that signals the pituitary gland to release growth hormone.
CJC-1295 replicates that signaling pathway but with a longer half-life than the naturally occurring hormone. This is achieved through a modification that allows it to bind to albumin in plasma, extending its active window significantly compared to endogenous GHRH.
There are two versions you’ll encounter when sourcing:
CJC-1295 without DAC (also called Modified GRF 1-29 or Mod GRF 1-29). This version has a shorter half-life and a more pulsatile activity profile that more closely mimics the natural release pattern of GHRH.
CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex). The DAC modification extends the half-life substantially, resulting in a sustained elevation rather than a pulsatile pattern.
These are meaningfully different compounds from a research standpoint. If you’re sourcing based on existing literature, make sure the version you’re ordering matches what the research you’re referencing used.
What is Ipamorelin?
Ipamorelin is a growth hormone secretagogue. Rather than working through the GHRH pathway like CJC-1295, it works through the ghrelin receptor (also called the GHS-R or growth hormone secretagogue receptor).
It’s considered one of the more selective compounds in its class from a research standpoint because it stimulates growth hormone release with relatively minimal effect on other hormones like cortisol and prolactin that other secretagogues in the same class tend to affect. That selectivity is part of why researchers studying growth hormone axis biology have found it a useful tool.
Ipamorelin is a pentapeptide, meaning it’s made up of five amino acids, and it was developed specifically as a research compound rather than being derived from a naturally occurring peptide.
Why are they often studied together?
CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin work through different receptor pathways but both ultimately influence growth hormone secretion. CJC-1295 acts on the GHRH receptor. Ipamorelin acts on the ghrelin receptor. Researchers studying growth hormone axis biology have been interested in whether combining compounds that work through these two distinct pathways produces different results than either compound alone.
The research interest in dual pathway approaches is what drives the frequent pairing. Many Canadian suppliers offer them as a pre-mixed blend specifically because of this research demand, though they’re also available separately for researchers who need to control dosing of each compound independently.
CJC-1295 No DAC vs with DAC: which one are researchers using?
For most research applications you’ll see CJC-1295 without DAC referenced more frequently. The pulsatile activity profile is considered more physiologically relevant for researchers trying to model natural GHRH signaling patterns.
CJC-1295 with DAC creates a sustained elevation that some researchers find useful for different experimental designs but it’s a different research profile. If you’re ordering based on a specific protocol or literature reference, confirm which version is being used.
Sourcing CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin in Canada
The same quality criteria apply here as with any research peptide.
Third-party testing. Both compounds should come with batch-specific COAs from an independent laboratory. Purity via HPLC is the standard measurement. Janoshik Analytical is one of the recognized labs in this space.
Correct compound identification. Make sure the COA identifies the specific compound you ordered. CJC-1295 without DAC and CJC-1295 with DAC are different compounds. The documentation should reflect exactly what’s in the vial.
Domestic sourcing. A Canadian supplier means no customs complications and a cleaner documentation trail for your research records.
Storage and handling
Both CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin in lyophilized form should be stored refrigerated at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius, away from light and moisture. Keep vials sealed until ready to use. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water and aliquot to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles once in solution.
Common formats
CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin are typically supplied as lyophilized powder in sealed glass vials. Common concentrations from Canadian suppliers include 5mg and 10mg vials for each compound separately, and blended formulations that combine both. Confirm what you’re ordering matches your research requirements before purchasing.
Where BioPerform fits in
BioPerform carries CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin individually and as a blend, all third-party tested by Janoshik Analytical with batch-specific COAs on the product page before purchase. Orders placed before 2PM MST ship same-day from Alberta via Canada Post with tracking confirmation.
Payment is by Interac e-Transfer. Questions about specific compounds, batches, or documentation can be directed to support@bioperform.ca.
All BioPerform compounds are for research purposes only. Not intended for human consumption. For use by licensed researchers in controlled laboratory settings.