CJC-1295 & Ipamorelin vs Setmelanotide
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
CJC-1295 & Ipamorelin
The most popular growth hormone secretagogue combination. CJC-1295 (a GHRH analog) and Ipamorelin (a ghrelin mimetic) work synergistically to stimulate natural growth hormone release with potentially greater effects than either peptide alone.
Full details →Setmelanotide
Setmelanotide (Imcivree) is an FDA-approved MC4R agonist for chronic weight management in patients with obesity due to specific genetic conditions (POMC, PCSK1, or LEPR deficiency).
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | CJC-1295 & Ipamorelin | Setmelanotide |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | CJC-1295 binds to GHRH receptors to sustain GH signaling and extend the half-life of growth hormone release. Ipamorelin triggers strong GH pulses by binding to ghrelin receptors. Together, they create both sustained and pulsatile GH release patterns that more closely mimic natural physiology. | Selective agonist of melanocortin 4 receptors (MC4R) in the hypothalamus, restoring the satiety signaling pathway that is disrupted in certain genetic obesity syndromes. |
| Typical Dosage | CJC-1295 (no DAC/Mod GRF 1-29): 100-300mcg combined with Ipamorelin 200-300mcg, administered 1-3 times daily. Best results when administered fasted or before sleep. | Adults: Start 2mg daily, titrate based on tolerability up to 3mg daily. Pediatrics (6+): Weight-based dosing starting at 1mg daily. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection. Often administered before bedtime to enhance natural nighttime GH release, or in the morning fasted. The combination is typically pre-mixed or injected simultaneously. | Subcutaneous injection once daily. Requires genetic testing to confirm eligible mutations before prescribing. |
| Side Effects | Water retention, tingling in extremities, mild headaches, lightheadedness, or increased hunger. Generally well-tolerated with minimal effect on cortisol or prolactin. | Injection site reactions, skin hyperpigmentation, spontaneous penile erections, depression, and suicidal ideation (boxed warning). GI effects less common than GLP-1s. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both CJC-1295 & Ipamorelin and Setmelanotide are commonly used for: