Tesamorelin + CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin Stack Guide

The advanced 3-peptide GH stack for fat loss and body recomposition. Combining Tesamorelin’s FDA-studied visceral fat reduction with CJC-1295/Ipamorelin GH optimization for superior body composition results.

Stack Overview

The Tesamorelin + CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin stack is an advanced growth hormone optimization protocol designed specifically for fat loss, visceral fat reduction, and body recomposition. It combines Tesamorelin's targeted lipolytic action with the synergistic GH secretagogue pairing of CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin to produce a more powerful, sustained growth hormone response than any single peptide alone.

Key Characteristics:

  • 3-peptide stackTesamorelin (GHRH analog) + CJC-1295 no DAC (Mod GRF 1-29) + Ipamorelin (selective GH secretagogue)
  • Primary goalfat loss (especially visceral/abdominal fat), body recomposition, GH optimization, improved recovery and sleep
  • Complementary mechanismsTesamorelin targets visceral adipose tissue directly; CJC-1295 amplifies GH pulse amplitude; Ipamorelin triggers clean GH release without cortisol or prolactin elevation
  • Experience levelintermediate to advanced; users should have prior experience with GH secretagogues or the simpler CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin duo
  • Typical cycle8–12 weeks, with Tesamorelin clinical studies showing best results at 12–26 weeks
  • Administrationsubcutaneous injection for all three peptides, injected together before bed on an empty stomach

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 combines three distinct mechanisms that work together to maximize GH output and direct that elevated GH toward fat metabolism. Rather than relying on a single pathway, the three peptides create a layered approach to GH optimization and targeted fat loss.

Tesamorelin: The Targeted Fat Burner

  • GHRH analog: directly stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone by mimicking natural growth-hormone-releasing hormone
  • Visceral fat reduction: FDA clinical trials (REDUCE trial) demonstrated significant reduction in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) — the dangerous fat surrounding internal organs
  • Selective lipolysis: preferentially targets trunk and abdominal fat depots rather than subcutaneous fat throughout the body
  • IGF-1 elevation: increases IGF-1 levels, which supports fat metabolism, protein synthesis, and tissue repair

CJC-1295 (No DAC): The GH Amplifier

  • GHRH mimetic: extends the duration and amplitude of each GH pulse from the pituitary without disrupting the natural pulsatile rhythm
  • Synergy with Tesamorelin: both act on the GHRH receptor from complementary angles — Tesamorelin as a full GHRH analog and CJC-1295 as a modified fragment that resists enzymatic breakdown
  • Sustained release: the modified structure provides a longer-acting GH stimulus compared to native GHRH, amplifying each GH pulse
  • Preserves pulsatility: unlike the DAC version, Mod GRF 1-29 maintains the natural on/off GH pulse pattern critical for receptor sensitivity

Ipamorelin: The Clean GH Trigger

  • Ghrelin mimetic: stimulates GH release through the ghrelin/GHS receptor — a completely different pathway than the GHRH receptor used by Tesamorelin and CJC-1295
  • Selective GH release: unlike GHRP-6 or Hexarelin, Ipamorelin does not significantly increase cortisol, prolactin, or appetite — producing a “clean” GH pulse
  • Dual-pathway synergy: triggering GH from the ghrelin receptor while simultaneously stimulating the GHRH receptor (via Tesamorelin + CJC-1295) produces a synergistically larger GH pulse than either pathway alone
  • Dose-dependent and predictable: GH response scales linearly with dose up to the saturation point, making dosing straightforward

The Synergy

Tesamorelin and CJC-1295 both work through the GHRH pathway to amplify GH pulse amplitude and duration. Ipamorelin works through the completely separate ghrelin pathway to trigger the GH pulse. When you stimulate both pathways simultaneously, the resulting GH release is significantly greater than the sum of the individual effects. Tesamorelin then adds its unique targeted lipolytic action on visceral fat, which the other two peptides do not provide. The result: a robust, sustained GH pulse that specifically drives fat loss and body recomposition.

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.

Tesamorelin (GHRH Analog)

  • Type: Synthetic GHRH analog (44 amino acids)
  • Origin: Modified growth-hormone-releasing hormone with a trans-3-hexenoic acid group
  • Role in stack: Targeted visceral fat reduction, primary GHRH stimulation, IGF-1 elevation
  • Route: Subcutaneous injection (abdomen)
  • Frequency: Once daily
  • FDA status: Approved for HIV lipodystrophy
Full Tesamorelin Dosage Guide →

CJC-1295 (Mod GRF 1-29, No DAC)

  • Type: Modified GHRH fragment (29 amino acids)
  • Origin: Modified version of GHRH(1-29) with amino acid substitutions for enzymatic resistance
  • Role in stack: Amplifies GH pulse amplitude and duration, synergizes with GHRH pathway
  • Route: Subcutaneous injection
  • Frequency: Once daily (before bed)
Full CJC-1295 Dosage Guide →

Ipamorelin (Selective GH Secretagogue)

  • Type: Synthetic pentapeptide ghrelin mimetic (5 amino acids)
  • Origin: Synthetic ghrelin receptor agonist designed for selective GH release
  • Role in stack: Triggers GH pulse via ghrelin pathway, clean release without cortisol/prolactin elevation
  • Route: Subcutaneous injection
  • Frequency: Once daily (before bed)
Full Ipamorelin Dosage Guide →

Dosing Protocol

All three peptides are injected once daily, typically together before bed on an empty stomach. The simplicity of dosing is one of the advantages of this stack — all injections happen at the same time.

Standard Protocol

CompoundDoseFrequencyRouteNotes
Tesamorelin2 mgOnce dailySubQ (abdomen)FDA-approved dose; inject fasted before bed
CJC-1295100 mcgOnce dailySubQ (abdomen)No DAC version only; inject with Tesamorelin
Ipamorelin200 mcgOnce dailySubQ (abdomen)Inject with the other two peptides before bed

Conservative Protocol (Lower Dose)

CompoundDoseFrequencyRouteNotes
Tesamorelin1 mgOnce dailySubQ (abdomen)Half the FDA dose; suitable for first-time users
CJC-1295100 mcgOnce dailySubQ (abdomen)Same dose as standard; 100 mcg is the established minimum effective dose
Ipamorelin100 mcgOnce dailySubQ (abdomen)Lower starting dose to assess tolerance

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.

Tesamorelin — 2 mg Vial

  • Vial size: 2 mg (2,000 mcg)
  • Bacteriostatic water: 2 mL
  • Concentration: 2,000 ÷ 2 = 1,000 mcg/mL
  • 2 mg dose = 2 mL = entire vial (single-use at FDA dose)
  • 1 mg dose = 1 mL = 100 units on insulin syringe (2 doses per vial)

CJC-1295 — 5 mg Vial

  • Vial size: 5 mg (5,000 mcg)
  • Bacteriostatic water: 2.5 mL
  • Concentration: 5,000 ÷ 2.5 = 2,000 mcg/mL
  • 100 mcg dose = 0.05 mL = 5 units on insulin syringe
  • Doses per vial: 50 doses

Ipamorelin — 5 mg Vial

  • Vial size: 5 mg (5,000 mcg)
  • Bacteriostatic water: 2.5 mL
  • Concentration: 5,000 ÷ 2.5 = 2,000 mcg/mL
  • 200 mcg dose = 0.1 mL = 10 units on insulin syringe
  • Doses per vial: 25 doses

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.

PeptideVial SizeBac WaterConcentrationStandard Dose Draw
Tesamorelin2 mg2 mL1,000 mcg/mL100 units (1 mL) for 1 mg; full vial for 2 mg
CJC-12955 mg2.5 mL2,000 mcg/mL5 units (0.05 mL) for 100 mcg
Ipamorelin5 mg2.5 mL2,000 mcg/mL10 units (0.1 mL) for 200 mcg
1

Wash Hands & Prepare Workspace

Wash hands thoroughly. Lay out supplies: peptide vials, bacteriostatic water, insulin syringes, and alcohol swabs on a clean surface.

2

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.

3

Add Water to Each Peptide Vial

Draw the appropriate volume of bacteriostatic water for each vial. Insert needle into the peptide vial and direct the stream down the inside glass wall — never squirt directly onto the powder. Release slowly.

4

Dissolve Gently

Let each vial sit for 1–2 minutes, then gently swirl or roll between palms until fully dissolved. Solution should be clear and colorless. Never shake.

5

Label & Refrigerate

Write the reconstitution date and concentration on each vial. Store refrigerated at 2–8°C. Use CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin within 28–30 days. Tesamorelin single-use vials should be used immediately after reconstitution.

For a detailed visual walkthrough, see our Reconstitution Guide.

Timing & Daily Schedule

All three peptides are injected at the same time, once daily. The key requirement is fasting — inject at least 2–3 hours after your last meal. Here is a typical daily schedule:

TimeActionNotes
6:00–7:00 PMLast meal of the dayBalanced meal; avoid heavy carbohydrates close to injection
7:00–9:30 PMFasting window (2–3 hours)Water, black coffee, or tea are fine; no calories
9:30–10:00 PMInject all three peptidesTesamorelin 2 mg + CJC-1295 100 mcg + Ipamorelin 200 mcg SubQ
10:00–10:30 PMGo to sleepGH pulse peaks during deep sleep; maximize this window

Alternative Morning Protocol

TimeActionNotes
6:00–6:30 AMWake up fastedNatural overnight fast is ideal
6:30 AMInject all three peptidesTesamorelin 2 mg + CJC-1295 100 mcg + Ipamorelin 200 mcg SubQ
7:00–7:30 AMWait 20–30 minutes, then eat breakfastAllow the GH pulse to initiate before introducing food

Timing Notes

  • Bedtime is preferred: Injecting before sleep stacks the peptide-induced GH pulse on top of your natural nocturnal GH release, maximizing total GH output.
  • Fasting is critical: Insulin blunts GH release. A 2–3 hour fast before injection ensures insulin levels are low when the GH pulse is triggered.
  • All three at once: There is no need to stagger the injections. Inject all three peptides in the same session using separate syringes.
  • Consistency matters: Inject at the same time each day for stable GH pulsatility and best results.

Cycling & Duration

This stack is typically run for 8–12 weeks. Tesamorelin clinical studies showed the most significant visceral fat reduction at 12–26 weeks of continuous use. Cycling is recommended to maintain GH receptor sensitivity and assess progress.

PhaseDurationTesamorelinCJC-1295Ipamorelin
Ramp-upWeeks 1–21 mg daily100 mcg daily100 mcg daily
Full doseWeeks 3–122 mg daily100 mcg daily200 mcg daily
Break4–8 weeks offNoneNoneNone
Repeat (if needed)8–12 weeksResume protocolResume protocolResume protocol

When to Extend the Cycle

  • Significant visceral fat: Tesamorelin clinical data showed continued improvement through 26 weeks. Users with substantial visceral fat may benefit from a 16–20 week cycle under medical supervision with regular IGF-1 monitoring.
  • Good tolerance and normal IGF-1: If bloodwork shows IGF-1 within the normal reference range and side effects are minimal, extending to 16 weeks is reasonable.
  • Physician-guided protocols: Extended cycles beyond 12 weeks should ideally be supervised by a healthcare provider with periodic bloodwork (IGF-1, fasting glucose, HbA1c).

Why Take a Break?

Continuous GH stimulation can lead to desensitization of growth hormone receptors and diminishing returns over time. The break period serves to: (1) reset GH receptor sensitivity for full effectiveness in the next cycle, (2) assess body composition progress without peptide support, (3) confirm that fat loss is being maintained through diet and exercise rather than solely peptide-dependent, and (4) allow IGF-1 levels to normalize if they have risen above the reference range.

Safety, Side Effects & Contraindications

Common Side Effects

  • Injection site reactions (redness, itching, swelling) — the most common report, especially with Tesamorelin
  • Joint pain or stiffness — related to GH and IGF-1 elevation; may indicate dose is too high
  • Water retention — mild fluid retention, especially in the first 2–4 weeks as GH levels increase
  • Tingling or numbness in extremities (paresthesia) — a sign of GH-related nerve compression; reduce dose if persistent
  • Headache — may occur in the first 1–2 weeks of use
  • Increased appetite — primarily from Ipamorelin's ghrelin receptor activity, though typically mild

Contraindications

  • Active cancer or history of cancer: Elevated GH and IGF-1 can promote tumor growth. This stack significantly elevates both. Do not use with any active malignancy or recent history of cancer.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Tesamorelin is Category X (contraindicated in pregnancy). No safety data exists for CJC-1295 or Ipamorelin during pregnancy. Avoid entirely.
  • Diabetic retinopathy: Elevated GH/IGF-1 can worsen diabetic eye disease. Contraindicated in patients with active diabetic retinopathy.
  • Active pituitary disorders: This stack stimulates the pituitary gland. Do not use with pituitary tumors, hypopituitarism, or other pituitary pathology without physician guidance.
  • Hypersensitivity: Discontinue if allergic reaction occurs to any component. Tesamorelin contains a mannitol excipient that can cause reactions in sensitive individuals.

Stack-Specific Safety Notes

  • Monitor IGF-1 levels: This is a potent GH stack. Get baseline IGF-1 bloodwork before starting and recheck at 6–8 weeks. If IGF-1 exceeds the age-adjusted reference range, reduce doses or discontinue.
  • Watch for insulin resistance: Chronic GH elevation can impair insulin sensitivity. Monitor fasting glucose and HbA1c, especially during extended cycles or if you have pre-diabetic risk factors.
  • Separate syringes: Use dedicated syringes for each peptide to avoid any potential compatibility issues in solution.
  • Joint pain as a dose indicator: If joint pain or carpal tunnel symptoms develop, GH/IGF-1 may be too high. Reduce doses by 25–50% and reassess.

Common Stack Mistakes

Avoid these common errors to get the most out of your Tesamorelin + CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin protocol:

Not fasting before injection

Food intake, especially carbohydrates and fats, triggers insulin release that directly blunts growth hormone secretion. The entire stack depends on maximizing the GH pulse. Inject at least 2–3 hours after eating for optimal results.

Using CJC-1295 WITH DAC instead of without DAC

CJC-1295 with DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) creates a sustained, non-pulsatile GH elevation that disrupts natural GH rhythm and does not synergize well with Ipamorelin. The no-DAC version (Mod GRF 1-29) preserves natural pulsatile release and works synergistically with both Ipamorelin and Tesamorelin.

Expecting rapid weight loss in the first few weeks

This stack works by optimizing GH levels and gradually shifting body composition. Tesamorelin clinical trials showed significant visceral fat reduction at 12–26 weeks, not 2–4 weeks. Patience and consistency are essential. Early signs include improved sleep, recovery, and skin quality.

Neglecting diet and exercise during the cycle

Elevated GH amplifies the results of proper nutrition and training — it does not replace them. Without a caloric deficit or maintenance-level intake and regular exercise, the fat loss benefits will be minimal regardless of peptide dosing.

Not monitoring IGF-1 levels

This is a potent GH stack that will meaningfully elevate IGF-1. Chronically elevated IGF-1 above the normal range carries health risks. Get baseline IGF-1 bloodwork before starting and recheck at 6–8 weeks. If IGF-1 is above the reference range, reduce doses or cycle off.

Injecting immediately after a workout

Post-workout cortisol and insulin fluctuations can interfere with the GH pulse. If you train in the evening, wait at least 1–2 hours after exercise before injecting. The ideal approach is to inject at bedtime, well after your last meal and training session.

Running the stack indefinitely without cycling off

Continuous GH stimulation can lead to desensitization of GH receptors and diminishing returns. Cycle 8–12 weeks on, 4–8 weeks off. The break allows receptor sensitivity to reset and lets you assess progress without peptide support.

Storing reconstituted peptides at room temperature

All three peptides must be refrigerated at 2–8°C after reconstitution. Room temperature storage accelerates degradation and reduces potency. Use reconstituted vials within 28–30 days. Unreconstituted lyophilized powder should also be refrigerated or frozen for long-term storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

  • Tesamorelin + CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin is an advanced 3-peptide GH stack for fat loss and body recomposition — combining targeted visceral fat reduction with amplified GH secretion
  • Tesamorelin dose: 2 mg SubQ daily (FDA-studied dose); CJC-1295: 100 mcg SubQ daily; Ipamorelin: 200 mcg SubQ daily
  • Inject all three together before bed on an empty stomach — fasting for 2–3 hours before injection is critical for optimal GH release
  • Use CJC-1295 without DAC (Mod GRF 1-29) — the DAC version disrupts natural GH pulsatility and does not synergize as well
  • Typical cycle: 8–12 weeks on, 4–8 weeks off; Tesamorelin studies show best results with 12+ weeks of use
  • Monitor IGF-1 levels with bloodwork before starting and at 6–8 weeks; reduce dose if above reference range
  • Diet and exercise are essential — this stack amplifies results from proper nutrition and training but does not replace them
  • Expect gradual results over 8–12+ weeks — not rapid weight loss; early improvements include sleep, recovery, and skin quality
  • Tesamorelin is FDA-approved for HIV lipodystrophy; CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin are research peptides. All three are banned by WADA.

This article is for educational and informational purposes only. Tesamorelin is FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy; its use for general fat loss is off-label. CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin are not approved by the FDA for human use and are classified as research peptides. None of these peptides are intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease outside their approved indications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any peptide protocol, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions, are taking medications, or are pregnant or nursing. See our Medical Disclaimer.

References

  1. Falutz J, et al. “Metabolic effects of a growth hormone-releasing factor in patients with HIV.” N Engl J Med. 2007;357(23):2359-2370.
  2. Falutz J, et al. “Effects of tesamorelin (TH9507), a growth hormone-releasing factor analog, on visceral fat reduction in HIV-infected patients with abdominal fat accumulation: the REDUCE trial.” J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2010;95(9):4291-4304.
  3. Stanley TL, et al. “Effects of tesamorelin on hepatic steatosis in adults with HIV.” Ann Intern Med. 2014;160(7):458-467.
  4. Ionescu M, Bhsm LSF. “Pulsatile secretion of growth hormone (GH) persists during continuous stimulation by CJC-1295, a long-acting GH-releasing hormone analog.” J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2006;91(12):4792-4797.
  5. Raun K, et al. “Ipamorelin, the first selective growth hormone secretagogue.” Eur J Endocrinol. 1998;139(5):552-561.
  6. Nass R, et al. “Effects of an oral ghrelin mimetic on body composition and clinical outcomes in healthy older adults.” Ann Intern Med. 2008;149(9):601-611.
  7. 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.