Mechanism: GH Axis
CJC-1295 vs Tesamorelin: GHRH Analogue Comparison
Both are GHRH analogues that drive endogenous GH and IGF-1 release. Tesamorelin is the only one with FDA-approved indication for visceral fat reduction. CJC-1295 is unapproved but widely studied in research settings.
Side-by-side comparison
| Attribute | CJC-1295 | Tesamorelin |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | GHRH analogue, optional DAC | GHRH analogue |
| Half-life | ~8 days (DAC), ~30 min (no DAC) | ~26 minutes |
| Typical research dose | 1 to 2 mg weekly (DAC) | 2 mg daily |
| Visceral fat data | Limited | 15 to 18 percent reduction at 26 weeks (Falutz 2007) |
| Regulatory status | Unapproved | FDA approved for HIV lipodystrophy |
| Cost per month | Lower | Higher |
Key differences
- ·Tesamorelin has phase 3 data showing 15 to 18 percent visceral fat reduction
- ·CJC-1295 with DAC has a multi-day half-life, simplifying administration
- ·Tesamorelin is dosed daily at 2 mg, CJC-1295 DAC once or twice weekly
- ·Tesamorelin carries higher cost per mg, CJC-1295 is cheaper at scale
Research summary
Falutz et al. (2007, NEJM) showed tesamorelin reduced visceral adipose tissue by 15 percent over 26 weeks. CJC-1295 lacks comparable phase 3 visceral fat trials but is supported by pharmacokinetic studies showing sustained GH and IGF-1 elevation (Teichman 2006).