CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin + IGF-1 LR3 Stack Guide
Advanced 3-peptide stack targeting the GH/IGF-1 axis from both ends — GH secretagogues for upstream pituitary stimulation plus direct IGF-1 receptor activation for maximum anabolic signaling, muscle growth, and recovery.
In This Guide
Stack Overview
The CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin + IGF-1 LR3 stack is an advanced 3-peptide protocol that targets the GH/IGF-1 axis from both upstream and downstream. CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin stimulate the pituitary gland to release natural growth hormone, while IGF-1 LR3 directly activates IGF-1 receptors in muscle and other tissues. Together, they produce amplified anabolic signaling beyond what either approach achieves alone.
Key Characteristics:
- 3-peptide stack — CJC-1295 (no DAC / Mod GRF 1-29) + Ipamorelin + IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3 Insulin-like Growth Factor-1)
- Primary goal — muscle growth, enhanced recovery, body recomposition, and anabolic signaling optimization
- Dual-axis mechanism — CJC-1295/Ipamorelin stimulate natural GH release (upstream); IGF-1 LR3 directly activates IGF-1 receptors (downstream) — covering the entire GH/IGF-1 axis
- Experience level — advanced users only — requires prior experience with GH secretagogues and regular blood work monitoring
- Typical cycle — CJC-1295/Ipamorelin 8–12 weeks; IGF-1 LR3 4–6 weeks max (staggered)
- Administration — subcutaneous injection for all three peptides; different timing for secretagogues vs. IGF-1 LR3
Use our Peptide Dosage Calculator to calculate exact doses for all three peptides based on your vial sizes and reconstitution volumes.
Why This Stack Works
This stack is effective because it targets the GH/IGF-1 axis from both ends simultaneously. Rather than relying solely on stimulating GH release or solely on exogenous IGF-1, it combines both approaches for a synergistic anabolic effect that neither achieves alone.
CJC-1295 (no DAC): The GH-Releasing Hormone Analog
- GHRH mimetic: binds to GHRH receptors on the pituitary, amplifying the natural growth hormone releasing hormone signal
- GH pulse amplification: increases the amplitude of GH pulses rather than creating a constant elevation, preserving the natural pulsatile pattern
- Short half-life (~30 min): produces a sharp, physiological GH pulse ideal for bedtime injection
- Synergy with Ipamorelin: GHRH and ghrelin pathways are additive — combining both produces a larger GH pulse than either alone
Ipamorelin: The Selective GH Secretagogue
- Ghrelin mimetic: binds to the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHS-R) on the pituitary, triggering GH release through the ghrelin pathway
- Selective: unlike GHRP-6 or Hexarelin, Ipamorelin does not significantly increase cortisol, prolactin, or appetite at standard doses
- Complementary to CJC-1295: activates a different receptor pathway (ghrelin vs. GHRH), producing an additive GH pulse when combined
- Well-tolerated: one of the mildest GH secretagogues with minimal side effects
IGF-1 LR3: The Direct Growth Factor
- Direct IGF-1 receptor activation: bypasses the pituitary and liver entirely, directly binding to and activating IGF-1 receptors in muscle and other tissues
- Extended half-life: the LR3 modification reduces binding to IGF-binding proteins, extending the half-life to approximately 20–30 hours (vs. ~15 minutes for native IGF-1)
- Potent anabolic: promotes muscle cell hyperplasia (new cell formation) in addition to hypertrophy (cell enlargement) — a mechanism not shared by GH alone
- Glucose partitioning: drives glucose and amino acids into muscle cells, enhancing nutrient uptake and recovery
The Synergy
CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin trigger a large natural GH pulse from the pituitary. This GH travels to the liver and stimulates endogenous IGF-1 production. Meanwhile, IGF-1 LR3 adds direct, exogenous IGF-1 receptor activation on top of the body's own response. The result: elevated GH for its direct benefits (fat metabolism, sleep quality, tissue repair) plus amplified IGF-1 signaling for its anabolic effects (muscle protein synthesis, hyperplasia, nutrient partitioning). This dual-axis approach produces a greater total anabolic effect than either upstream or downstream stimulation alone.
Individual Peptide Breakdown
Each peptide in this stack has a dedicated dosage guide with complete individual protocols. Here is a summary of each peptide's role in this stack.
CJC-1295 (no DAC / Mod GRF 1-29)
- Type: Synthetic GHRH analog (modified tetrasubstituted peptide)
- Origin: Modified fragment of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH)
- Role in stack: Amplifies natural GH pulses via GHRH receptor activation
- Route: Subcutaneous injection
- Frequency: Once daily (before bed)
Ipamorelin
- Type: Selective growth hormone secretagogue (pentapeptide)
- Origin: Synthetic ghrelin mimetic designed for selective GH release
- Role in stack: Triggers GH release via ghrelin receptor (GHS-R), additive with CJC-1295
- Route: Subcutaneous injection
- Frequency: Once daily (before bed, with CJC-1295)
IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3 IGF-1)
- Type: Modified insulin-like growth factor (83 amino acids)
- Origin: Recombinant analog of human IGF-1 with extended half-life
- Role in stack: Direct IGF-1 receptor activation for anabolic signaling and nutrient partitioning
- Route: Subcutaneous injection
- Frequency: Once daily (post-workout or morning)
Dosing Protocol
This stack uses two separate injection windows: a bedtime session for the GH secretagogues and a morning/post-workout session for IGF-1 LR3. Timing separation is critical for optimal results.
Standard Protocol
| Compound | Dose | Timing | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CJC-1295 | 100 mcg | Before bed (fasted) | SubQ (abdomen) | At least 2 hours after last meal; inject with Ipamorelin |
| Ipamorelin | 100–200 mcg | Before bed (fasted) | SubQ (abdomen) | Same injection session as CJC-1295; separate syringes |
| IGF-1 LR3 | 20–50 mcg | Post-workout or morning | SubQ (abdomen or near target muscle) | With or after a carbohydrate-containing meal; start at 20 mcg |
Conservative Protocol (Starting Doses)
| Compound | Dose | Timing | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CJC-1295 | 100 mcg | Before bed (fasted) | SubQ | Standard dose; no need to titrate |
| Ipamorelin | 100 mcg | Before bed (fasted) | SubQ | Lower end of range; can increase to 200 mcg if well-tolerated |
| IGF-1 LR3 | 20 mcg | Post-workout or morning | SubQ | Start here; increase by 10 mcg/week only if well-tolerated |
Calculate Your Doses
All three peptides are supplied as lyophilized powder and need reconstitution with bacteriostatic water. The dose you draw depends on the concentration after reconstitution.
CJC-1295 (no DAC) — 2 mg Vial
- Vial size: 2 mg (2,000 mcg)
- Bacteriostatic water: 2 mL
- Concentration: 2,000 ÷ 2 = 1,000 mcg/mL
- 100 mcg dose = 0.1 mL = 10 units on insulin syringe
- Doses per vial: 20 doses
Ipamorelin — 2 mg Vial
- Vial size: 2 mg (2,000 mcg)
- Bacteriostatic water: 2 mL
- Concentration: 2,000 ÷ 2 = 1,000 mcg/mL
- 200 mcg dose = 0.2 mL = 20 units on insulin syringe
- Doses per vial: 10 doses (at 200 mcg)
IGF-1 LR3 — 1 mg Vial
- Vial size: 1 mg (1,000 mcg)
- Bacteriostatic water: 1 mL
- Concentration: 1,000 ÷ 1 = 1,000 mcg/mL
- 50 mcg dose = 0.05 mL = 5 units on insulin syringe
- Doses per vial: 20 doses (at 50 mcg)
Skip the Math — Use Our Calculator
Enter your vial size, water volume, and desired dose for each peptide — get instant calculations with zero manual math.
Reconstitution Guide
All three peptides follow the same reconstitution process. Reconstitute each vial separately with bacteriostatic water.
| Peptide | Vial Size | Bac Water | Concentration | Standard Dose Draw |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CJC-1295 (no DAC) | 2 mg | 2 mL | 1,000 mcg/mL | 10 units (0.1 mL) for 100 mcg |
| Ipamorelin | 2 mg | 2 mL | 1,000 mcg/mL | 20 units (0.2 mL) for 200 mcg |
| IGF-1 LR3 | 1 mg | 1 mL | 1,000 mcg/mL | 5 units (0.05 mL) for 50 mcg |
Wash Hands & Prepare Workspace
Wash hands thoroughly. Lay out supplies: peptide vials, bacteriostatic water, insulin syringes, and alcohol swabs on a clean surface.
Swab All Vial Stoppers
Remove plastic caps and swab the rubber stoppers of each peptide vial and the bacteriostatic water vial with alcohol pads. Let air-dry for 10–15 seconds.
Add Water to Peptide Vial
Draw the appropriate volume of bacteriostatic water. Insert needle into peptide vial and direct the stream down the inside glass wall — never squirt directly onto the powder. Release slowly.
Dissolve Gently
Let the vial sit for 1–2 minutes, then gently swirl or roll between palms until fully dissolved. Solution should be clear and colorless. Never shake.
Label & Refrigerate
Write the reconstitution date, peptide name, and concentration on each vial. Store refrigerated at 2–8°C. Use within 28–30 days.
For a detailed visual walkthrough, see our Reconstitution Guide.
Timing & Daily Schedule
Timing separation is the most important aspect of this stack. The GH secretagogues and IGF-1 LR3 must be injected at different times of day for different reasons.
Training Day Schedule
| Time | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Morning / Post-Workout | IGF-1 LR3 injection | 20–50 mcg SubQ with or after a carbohydrate-containing meal |
| Throughout Day | Normal meals and training | Ensure adequate protein and carbohydrate intake |
| 2+ Hours After Last Meal | CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin injection | 100 mcg CJC-1295 + 100–200 mcg Ipamorelin SubQ, fasted |
| Immediately After | Sleep | Do not eat after the bedtime injection — go to sleep to maximize the GH pulse |
Rest Day Schedule
| Time | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Morning (with breakfast) | IGF-1 LR3 injection | 20–50 mcg SubQ with or after breakfast |
| 2+ Hours After Last Meal | CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin injection | 100 mcg CJC-1295 + 100–200 mcg Ipamorelin SubQ, fasted |
| Immediately After | Sleep | Maximize the natural nighttime GH pulse |
Critical Timing Notes
- CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin: Must be injected in a fasted state (at least 2 hours after food). Carbohydrates and fats blunt the GH response. Inject before bed and go directly to sleep.
- IGF-1 LR3: Must be injected with or after food (especially carbohydrates) to prevent hypoglycemia. Post-workout is ideal because muscles are primed for nutrient uptake. On rest days, inject with breakfast.
- Separation: Space IGF-1 LR3 and CJC-1295/Ipamorelin injections at least 6–12 hours apart. They have opposite food requirements (fed vs. fasted) and different mechanisms that are best activated separately.
- CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin together: These two can and should be injected in the same session using separate syringes. No waiting period between them.
Cycling & Duration
The key to cycling this stack is that CJC-1295/Ipamorelin and IGF-1 LR3 have different cycle lengths. The GH secretagogues can run longer, while IGF-1 LR3 must be cycled more aggressively to prevent receptor desensitization.
| Phase | Duration | CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin | IGF-1 LR3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Stack | Weeks 1–4 (or 1–6) | 100 mcg + 100–200 mcg nightly | 20–50 mcg daily (AM/post-workout) |
| Secretagogues Only | Weeks 5–12 (or 7–12) | 100 mcg + 100–200 mcg nightly | Off — receptor resensitization |
| Break | 2–4 weeks off | None | None |
| Repeat (if needed) | 8–12 weeks | Resume full protocol | Resume at starting dose (20 mcg) |
Why Stagger the Cycles?
- IGF-1 receptor desensitization: IGF-1 LR3 causes downregulation of IGF-1 receptors with prolonged use. Limiting it to 4–6 weeks preserves receptor sensitivity and effectiveness.
- CJC-1295/Ipamorelin tolerance: GH secretagogues have a much lower desensitization risk and can be run for 8–12 weeks. They continue providing GH and endogenous IGF-1 benefits during the IGF-1 LR3 off-period.
- Safety margin: Rotating IGF-1 LR3 on and off reduces cumulative exposure to a potent growth factor while maintaining baseline GH support from the secretagogues.
Alternative: Shorter Cycle
Some users prefer a shorter approach: 4 weeks of the full stack followed by 4 weeks of CJC-1295/Ipamorelin only, then 2–4 weeks fully off. This reduces total IGF-1 LR3 exposure and is appropriate for users who are more conservative or new to IGF-1 LR3.
Safety, Side Effects & Contraindications
CJC-1295/Ipamorelin Side Effects (Generally Mild)
- Water retention and mild bloating — common in the first 1–2 weeks, usually resolves
- Injection site redness or irritation — the most common local reaction
- Tingling or numbness in hands/feet — a sign of elevated GH, typically transient
- Increased hunger (more common with higher Ipamorelin doses)
- Vivid dreams or improved sleep depth — generally considered a positive effect
- Mild headache — usually resolves within the first week
IGF-1 LR3 Side Effects (Require Monitoring)
- Hypoglycemia: the primary acute risk. IGF-1 LR3 drives glucose into cells similarly to insulin. Symptoms: shakiness, sweating, confusion, dizziness, rapid heartbeat. Always inject with food and keep fast-acting carbs available.
- Jaw pain or joint aches: may indicate excessive growth factor stimulation. Reduce dose if this occurs.
- Localized swelling or pump: some users report increased muscle fullness or pump in injected areas. Generally benign.
- Headache and fatigue: can occur especially during the first few days of use.
- Gut distension: at high doses over extended periods, IGF-1 promotes growth of intestinal tissue. This is avoided by staying within recommended doses and cycle lengths.
Contraindications
- Active cancer or history of cancer: IGF-1 promotes cell proliferation and angiogenesis. This is a serious contraindication for IGF-1 LR3 specifically, and applies to the entire stack.
- Diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance: IGF-1 LR3's glucose-lowering effect can be dangerous for individuals with existing blood sugar regulation issues.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: No safety data exists for any of these peptides during pregnancy or nursing. Avoid entirely.
- Under 25 years of age: Growth plates may still be open, and manipulating the GH/IGF-1 axis during development is inadvisable.
- Active pituitary conditions: CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin act on the pituitary. Existing pituitary tumors or conditions are a contraindication.
Required Blood Work
- Fasting blood glucose — check before starting and every 2 weeks during IGF-1 LR3 use
- IGF-1 serum levels — check before starting and at week 4 to ensure levels are within a reasonable range
- Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) — baseline and midway through the cycle for liver and kidney function
- HbA1c — if running multiple cycles, check every 3 months to monitor long-term glucose control
Common Stack Mistakes
Avoid these common errors to get the most out of your CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin + IGF-1 LR3 protocol safely:
CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin need to be taken fasted before bed to amplify the natural GH pulse. IGF-1 LR3 should be taken post-workout or in the morning with food. Injecting them together blunts the GH secretagogue effect and fails to optimize either mechanism. Space them at least 6–12 hours apart.
IGF-1 LR3 causes receptor desensitization with extended use. After 4–6 weeks, IGF-1 receptors downregulate and you get diminishing returns with increasing risk. Limit IGF-1 LR3 to 4–6 weeks, then take at least 4 weeks off. CJC-1295/Ipamorelin can continue during the off-period.
IGF-1 LR3 drives glucose into cells similarly to insulin. Injecting in a fasted state significantly increases hypoglycemia risk — symptoms include shakiness, confusion, and dizziness. Always inject IGF-1 LR3 with or shortly after a meal containing carbohydrates.
Jumping straight to 50 mcg or higher without assessing tolerance is reckless. Start at 20 mcg and increase by 10 mcg per week only if well-tolerated. Individual sensitivity varies substantially. Some users experience hypoglycemia even at moderate doses.
The CJC-1295/Ipamorelin pair is beginner-friendly, but adding IGF-1 LR3 changes the risk profile entirely. IGF-1 LR3 is a potent growth factor with real risks including hypoglycemia, and theoretical concerns about cell proliferation. Start with the 2-peptide GH secretagogue stack first. Only add IGF-1 LR3 after gaining experience.
IGF-1 LR3 increases cellular glucose uptake. Without adequate carbohydrate intake around the injection window, blood sugar can drop to symptomatic levels. Plan to consume 30–50g of carbohydrates with or within 30 minutes of your IGF-1 LR3 injection.
This stack directly manipulates the GH/IGF-1 axis. Running it without monitoring fasting glucose, IGF-1 serum levels, and a basic metabolic panel is flying blind. Blood work before starting and midway through the cycle is a safety requirement, not a suggestion.
Food — especially carbohydrates and fats — blunts the GH response from secretagogues. CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin must be injected at least 2 hours after your last meal. The fasted state is critical for maximizing the nighttime GH pulse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Key Takeaways
- This is an advanced 3-peptide stack targeting the GH/IGF-1 axis from both ends — upstream GH release (CJC-1295/Ipamorelin) plus downstream IGF-1 receptor activation (IGF-1 LR3)
- CJC-1295 (100 mcg) + Ipamorelin (100–200 mcg) before bed, fasted — to amplify the natural nighttime GH pulse
- IGF-1 LR3 (20–50 mcg) post-workout or morning, with food — to directly activate IGF-1 receptors and drive nutrient partitioning
- Never inject IGF-1 LR3 and CJC-1295/Ipamorelin at the same time — space them at least 6–12 hours apart
- IGF-1 LR3: 4–6 weeks max, then at least 4 weeks off — receptor desensitization occurs with extended use
- CJC-1295/Ipamorelin: 8–12 weeks — can continue during the IGF-1 LR3 off-period
- Always eat carbohydrates with IGF-1 LR3 injections — hypoglycemia is the primary acute risk
- Blood work is required, not optional — monitor fasting glucose, IGF-1 levels, and metabolic panel
- Not for beginners — gain experience with CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin alone before adding IGF-1 LR3
- None of these peptides are FDA-approved for human use. All are classified as research peptides and banned by WADA.
This article is for educational and informational purposes only. CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, and IGF-1 LR3 are not approved by the FDA for human use and are classified as research peptides. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. IGF-1 LR3 carries additional risks including hypoglycemia and theoretical concerns about cell proliferation. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any research peptide, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions, diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance, are taking medications, or are pregnant or nursing. See our Medical Disclaimer.
References
- Teichman SL, et al. “Prolonged stimulation of growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor I secretion by CJC-1295, a long-acting analog of GH-releasing hormone, in healthy adults.” J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2006;91(3):799-805.
- Raun K, et al. “Ipamorelin, the first selective growth hormone secretagogue.” Eur J Endocrinol. 1998;139(5):552-561.
- Francis GL, et al. “Insulin-like growth factor 1 and insulin-like growth factor 2 in Bovine Colostrum.” Biochem J. 1988;251(1):95-103.
- Tomas FM, et al. “Insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) and especially IGF-I variants are anabolic in dexamethasone-treated rats.” Biochem J. 1993;292(Pt 3):857-862.
- Clemmons DR. “Role of IGF-I in skeletal muscle mass maintenance.” Trends Endocrinol Metab. 2009;20(7):349-356.
- Pollak M. “The insulin and insulin-like growth factor receptor family in neoplasia: an update.” Nat Rev Cancer. 2012;12(3):159-169.
- Giustina A, Veldhuis JD. “Pathophysiology of the neuroregulation of growth hormone secretion in experimental animals and the human.” Endocr Rev. 1998;19(6):717-797.
- Florini JR, et al. “Growth hormone and the insulin-like growth factor system in myogenesis.” Endocr Rev. 1996;17(5):481-517.
Next Steps
Continue your research with these resources.
CJC-1295 Dosage Guide
Complete individual dosing protocols, reconstitution, and injection guide for CJC-1295 (no DAC).
Read GuideIpamorelin Dosage Guide
Complete individual dosing protocols, timing, and safety for Ipamorelin.
Read GuideIGF-1 LR3 Dosage Guide
Complete individual dosing protocols, cycle lengths, and safety for IGF-1 LR3.
Read GuideDosage Calculator
Calculate exact doses for all three peptides based on vial size and reconstitution volume.
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