Can Ipamorelin/CJC-1295 Cause Acne?

In this article, we will take a close look at Ipamorelin and CJC-1295, two synthetic peptides that stimulate the secretion of growth hormone. We will delve into their potential effects on various biological processes and discuss the current research on their possible link to acne development. It's important to note that while these peptides have shown promising results in studies, more research is needed to fully understand their potential benefits and risks.
Natasha Puttick

Natasha Puttick

Graduate medical student at Barts and London.

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What is ipamorelin?

Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide, which means it consists of five amino acids that mimic the natural growth hormone release found in the body. It is a growth hormone secretagogue, meaning it stimulates the secretion of growth hormone. This peptide has been shown to have significant growth hormone-releasing properties [1].

Ipamorelin has been studied for its potential effects on various biological processes. For instance, research has shown that it can increase longitudinal bone growth rate and body weight in rats [2]. It has also been found to stimulate gastric emptying, which could potentially be beneficial in treating conditions like postoperative ileus [3].

Moreover, ipamorelin has been found to increase body fat in a growth hormone-independent manner, which could potentially be useful in certain therapeutic contexts [4]. It has also been studied for its potential to counteract the effects of steroid-induced catabolism [5].

However, it's important to note that while these studies provide promising results, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of ipamorelin in humans.

What is CJC-1295?

CJC-1295 is a peptide-based drug that stimulates the production of growth hormone (GH) from the pituitary gland. It has a functional maleimido group at the C-terminus that allows it to covalently bind plasma proteins such as serum albumin. This binding results in CJC-1295-protein conjugates that have a much greater half-life compared to the unconjugated peptide. These conjugates are capable of stimulating GH production for more than six days in humans after a single administration [6].

CJC-1295 is a long-acting analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). After a single injection of CJC-1295, there are dose-dependent increases in mean plasma GH concentrations by 2- to 10-fold for 6 days or more and in mean plasma IGF-I concentrations by 1.5- to 3-fold for 9-11 days [2].

Can CJC-1295/Ipamorelin cause acne?

There may not be sufficient evidence to answer exactly whether Ipamorelin/CJC 1295 can cause acne. The current research does not contain specific information about the potential of these peptides to induce acne.

However, it's important to note that both Ipamorelin and CJC 1295 are growth hormone-releasing peptides. They stimulate the production and release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland. Growth hormone can influence the skin's sebaceous glands, which produce sebum, an oily substance that can contribute to the development of acne when overproduced.

Try asking MediSearch about the effects of growth hormone on acne:

In the context of acne, one study showed that the insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which is related to growth hormone, can stimulate the proliferation of keratinocytes, a type of skin cell, and this process is involved in the pathogenesis of acne [7].

However, this does not directly imply that Ipamorelin or CJC 1295 can cause acne. More research is needed to establish a direct link between these peptides and acne development.

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Natasha Puttick

Natasha Puttick

Natasha is a medical student at Barts and the London school of Medicine and Dentistry, with an interest in the social determinants of health. She graduated from the University of Oxford with a BA in Human Sciences and has obtained two publications. Her most recent work investigating clinical vaccine trials has been published in BMJ Public Health.