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.
Research Peptide
Weekly Protocol Guide
GHK-Cu Protocol Guide
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, studied for wound healing, skin remodeling, anti-inflammatory signaling, and hair growth research.
Protocol Overview
- Compound
- GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine:Copper))
- Category
- Research Peptide
- Vial Size
- 100mg (100,000mcg)
- Reconstitution
- 5mL bacteriostatic water (20mg/mL)
- Route
- Subcutaneous injection
- Frequency
- 5 days/week
Reconstitution Instructions
Using 5mL of bacteriostatic water results in a concentration of 20mg/mL. GHK-Cu has a blue color when reconstituted due to copper. Always use sterile techniques.
Materials Needed
- 100mg GHK-Cu vial (lyophilized powder)
- 5mL 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 GHK-Cu 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 5mL 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 a clear blue color (this is normal — due to copper content). Do not use if turbid or containing visible particulates.
Weekly Dosing Schedule
| Day | Units | Dose | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 5 | 1mg | Morning |
| Tuesday | 5 | 1mg | Morning |
| Wednesday | 5 | 1mg | Morning |
| Thursday | 5 | 1mg | Morning |
| Friday | 5 | 1mg | Morning |
Weekly Total: 25 units (5mg) • Vial Duration: ~20 weeks (100 dosing days) at 1mg/day • Higher-dose protocols use 2mg/day
Quick Dosing Reference
| Units (Ticks) | Dose (mcg) | Dose (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5 | 500 | 0.5mg |
| 5 | 1000 | 1mg |
| 10 | 2000 | 2mg |
| 15 | 3000 | 3mg |
| 25 | 5000 | 5mg |
Administration Guidelines
- Administer subcutaneously in the morning
- Can also be applied topically for skin research (add reconstituted solution to a carrier cream at 0.5–1mg per application)
- Rotate injection sites between abdomen, thigh, and upper arm
- Store reconstituted peptide refrigerated at 36-46F (2-8C)
- Use reconstituted solution within 30 days
- Never freeze reconstituted peptides
- Document administration times 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 |