Research & Educational Use Only. This protocol guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any research protocol.
Hair Follicle Stimulation Peptide
Weekly Protocol Guide
AHK-Cu Protocol Guide
AHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide studied for hair follicle stimulation and dermal papilla cell proliferation. Research suggests it may promote hair growth by increasing follicle size, stimulating blood flow to follicles, and reducing follicular miniaturization.
Protocol Overview
- Compound
- AHK-Cu (Alanine-Histidine-Lysine Copper Peptide)
- Category
- Hair Follicle Stimulation Peptide
- Vial Size
- 5mg (5,000mcg)
- Reconstitution
- 2mL bacteriostatic water (2.5mg/mL)
- Route
- Subcutaneous injection
- Frequency
- 7 days/week
Reconstitution Instructions
Using 2mL of bacteriostatic water results in a concentration of 2.5mg/mL. Can be used topically or subcutaneously. Always use sterile techniques.
Materials Needed
- 5mg AHK-Cu 5mg vial (lyophilized powder)
- 2mL bacteriostatic water (sterile, preserved with 0.9% benzyl alcohol)
- Sterile syringe and needle (18-22 gauge for drawing)
- Alcohol swabs
- Clean workspace
Step-by-Step Process
- Preparation: Allow the AHK-Cu 5mg vial and bacteriostatic water to reach room temperature. Wipe the rubber stoppers of both vials with an alcohol swab.
- Draw the Water: Using a sterile syringe, draw up exactly 2mL of bacteriostatic water. Expel any air bubbles.
- Inject into Vial: Insert the needle through the rubber stopper at a slight angle, aiming toward the glass wall. Slowly inject the water down the side of the vial to avoid foaming.
- Mix Gently: Remove the needle. Gently swirl or roll the vial between your hands. Do not shake vigorously.
- Check for Clarity: The solution should be clear once fully reconstituted. Do not use if cloudy.
Weekly Dosing Schedule
| Day | Units | Dose | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 8 | 200mcg | Morning |
| Tuesday | 8 | 200mcg | Morning |
| Wednesday | 8 | 200mcg | Morning |
| Thursday | 8 | 200mcg | Morning |
| Friday | 8 | 200mcg | Morning |
| Saturday | 8 | 200mcg | Morning |
| Sunday | 8 | 200mcg | Morning |
Weekly Total: 56 units (1,400mcg) • Vial Duration: ~18 days
Quick Dosing Reference
| Units (Ticks) | Dose (mcg) | Dose (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 50 | 0.05mg |
| 4 | 100 | 0.1mg |
| 8 | 200 | 0.2mg |
| 10 | 250 | 0.25mg |
| 20 | 500 | 0.5mg |
Administration Guidelines
- Apply topically to target scalp area or administer subcutaneously near scalp
- If topical, apply to clean, dry scalp and gently massage in
- If subcutaneous, rotate injection sites on scalp or nearby
- Use daily for best research results
- Store reconstituted peptide refrigerated at 36-46F (2-8C)
- Use reconstituted solution within 30 days
- Never freeze reconstituted peptides
- Document administration method and observations
Storage Requirements
| State | Storage Conditions |
|---|---|
| Lyophilized (powder) | Room temperature or refrigerated, protect from light |
| Reconstituted | Refrigerated 36-46F (2-8C), use within 30 days |