Updated October 29, 2026.

Not part of the Oct 28 HHS policy. CJC-1295 and ipamorelin are not FDA-approved.

What is CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin?

This is a pairing of two lab-made peptides.

CJC-1295 is modeled on growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), the same natural signal that sermorelin is based on.

Ipamorelin works on a different signal, the ghrelin receptor, which also tells the pituitary gland to release growth hormone.

Neither one is growth hormone. Both are designed to prompt your body to release its own.

What the research is looking at

The research on these peptides has looked at:

  • Growth hormone and IGF-1 levels
  • Sleep and recovery
  • Body composition

A small 2006 study in healthy adults found that CJC-1295 raised growth hormone and IGF-1 levels for several days after a dose.

Early studies of ipamorelin suggested it triggers growth hormone release without large changes in other hormones such as cortisol. Most of that work was in animals.

The combination itself has not been studied in clinical trials. Human data on both peptides is limited, and long-term safety isn't known.

Who it may be for

Adults who are focused on recovery, sleep quality, body composition and healthy aging often ask about this pairing.

Results vary from person to person, and our provider will talk with you about realistic expectations.

Regulatory status: please read

CJC-1295 and ipamorelin are not FDA-approved drugs. They are not part of the October 28, 2026 HHS peptide policy.

In 2023, FDA placed both on its list of compounding ingredients that may raise significant safety risks. Those nominations were later withdrawn.

In late 2024, FDA's Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee voted against adding either one to the official 503A compounding list, citing limited safety and effectiveness data.

Availability depends on our compounding pharmacy partner and on our provider's judgment, and it may change as FDA rules develop.

If this pairing isn't available or isn't right for you, our provider can talk with you about sermorelin or tesamorelin instead.

Read the full FDA update

Safety and side effects

Side effects reported with growth hormone-releasing peptides can include:

  • Redness, itching or soreness where it's given
  • Flushing or a warm feeling
  • Headache
  • Water retention or tingling in the hands
  • Higher blood sugar

FDA has noted reports of a faster heart rate and flushing reactions with CJC-1295.

This pairing may not be right for you if:

  • You're pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive.
  • You're under 18.
  • You have active cancer or a history of cancer.
  • You have diabetes or trouble controlling blood sugar.
  • You have a pituitary condition or heart disease.

Our provider will review your health history before prescribing.

Good to know

  • Growth hormone-releasing peptides, including CJC-1295 and ipamorelin, are on the WADA prohibited list. If you're tested in your sport, check before starting.

How it works at Optimize Hormone

Optimize Hormone offers these prescription peptides from an FDA-inspected 503(a) pharmacy in the US, with full testing reports, delivered directly to your home.

Our approach to peptide therapy is personalized and provider-guided, designed to support recovery, performance, longevity and overall wellness.

  • Bloodwork membership not required for peptides.
  • Complete your online intake, or book a free consultation if you'd like to talk it through first.
  • Our provider reviews your health history and goals and determines whether CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin is appropriate for you.
  • If prescribed, your medication ships to your door with all necessary supplies, plus personalized dosing and instructions from your licensed provider.

How it's delivered

Your prescription arrives pre-mixed and ready to use, with all the supplies you need.

Our provider will walk you through how and when to use it.

Monthly membership: $150/month

Book your free consultation

Start your intake

Common questions

Is this the same as taking growth hormone?

No. These peptides signal your pituitary gland to release your own growth hormone. They don't supply growth hormone directly.

How is it different from sermorelin?

Sermorelin and CJC-1295 both work on the GHRH signal. Ipamorelin adds a second signal. Sermorelin was once an FDA-approved drug, while CJC-1295 and ipamorelin never have been. Our provider can help you compare.

When might I notice a difference?

It varies. Some people notice changes in sleep first, and body composition changes, if any, usually take longer. Our provider will set realistic expectations with you.

Do I need bloodwork?

A bloodwork membership is not required for peptides. Our provider may recommend labs based on your health history.

How to get started

1. Complete the short online intake.

2. Or book a free consultation if you'd like to talk it through first.

3. Our provider reviews your answers and lets you know whether CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin is a fit for you.

More peptides

Educational information only, not medical advice. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved, which means FDA does not review their safety, effectiveness or quality before they are dispensed. Our provider determines whether any medication is appropriate for you. Regulatory information is current as of October 29, 2026 and may change. Prescriptions are filled by a state-licensed 503(a) compounding pharmacy in the US.