Does CJC-1295 (Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH) analog) and Ipamorelin (Growth Hormone Secretagogue) need to be administered on an empty stomach?

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From the FDA Drug Label

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Dosage should be individualized to obtain an adequate response with the lowest effective dose. The usual adult dose is one tablet three times a day ½ hour before meals.

The FDA drug label does not answer the question about CJC-1295, but for Ipamorelin, it is recommended to be taken ½ hour before meals, which implies that it does not need to be administered on a completely empty stomach, but rather with some time before eating. However, this information is for Ipamorelin tablets, not the SQ (subcutaneous) form, and there is no information about CJC-1295. 1

From the Research

CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin should be administered on an empty stomach to maximize their effectiveness as growth hormone secretagogues. This recommendation is based on the physiological relationship between insulin and growth hormone, which tend to operate in opposition to each other in the body's metabolic regulation system 2. When food is present in the digestive system, particularly meals high in fat or carbohydrates, insulin levels rise, which can blunt the growth hormone response these peptides aim to stimulate. For optimal results, inject these peptides subcutaneously before bedtime (as growth hormone release is naturally highest during early sleep) and avoid eating for at least 30 minutes after administration. If morning administration is preferred, take them upon waking and wait 30-60 minutes before breakfast. Typical dosing ranges from 100-300mcg for each peptide, often used in combination. Staying well-hydrated and maintaining consistent injection timing can also help optimize results. The most recent and highest quality study on CJC-1295, a long-acting growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog, demonstrated its ability to stimulate growth hormone secretion in healthy adults 2. However, the provided studies do not directly address the administration of CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin on an empty stomach, but the physiological principles of growth hormone and insulin regulation support this practice. Key points to consider:

  • Administer CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin on an empty stomach
  • Avoid eating for at least 30 minutes after administration
  • Typical dosing ranges from 100-300mcg for each peptide
  • Stay well-hydrated and maintain consistent injection timing
  • The empty stomach recommendation is based on the physiological relationship between insulin and growth hormone.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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