GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a naturally occurring tripeptide–copper complex that requires careful reconstitution to maintain both peptide integrity and copper binding. Getting the reconstitution and dosing right is essential for reproducible research results. Use our free peptide dosage calculator to instantly calculate your exact volumes.
Reconstitution: Step-by-Step
GHK-Cu is typically supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in vials ranging from 5 mg to 50 mg. Here is the standard reconstitution procedure:
- Gather supplies: Bacteriostatic water (BAC water), an insulin syringe (typically 1 mL/100 units), alcohol swabs, and the GHK-Cu vial
- Clean the vial stopper: Swab the rubber stopper with an alcohol pad and let it dry
- Draw the solvent: Using a clean syringe, draw the desired amount of bacteriostatic water
- Add solvent slowly: Insert the needle through the stopper and inject the BAC water gently along the inside wall of the vial — never directly onto the powder cake
- Swirl gently: Do not shake. Allow the powder to dissolve over 1–2 minutes with gentle rotation. GHK-Cu typically dissolves within 30–60 seconds
- Verify dissolution: The solution should be clear to light blue in color (from the copper complex). Any cloudiness or particulate matter indicates a problem
Concentration Calculator Examples
The concentration of your reconstituted GHK-Cu depends on how much BAC water you add:
Free Tool
Peptide Reconstitution Calculator
Convert vial strength, water volume, and desired dose into precise syringe units. Works for BPC-157, TB-500, GHK-Cu, and all research peptides.
Try the Calculator →| Vial Size | BAC Water Added | Concentration | Volume per 200 mcg dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 mg | 1 mL | 5 mg/mL (5,000 mcg/mL) | 0.04 mL (4 units) |
| 5 mg | 2 mL | 2.5 mg/mL (2,500 mcg/mL) | 0.08 mL (8 units) |
| 10 mg | 2 mL | 5 mg/mL (5,000 mcg/mL) | 0.04 mL (4 units) |
| 50 mg | 5 mL | 10 mg/mL (10,000 mcg/mL) | 0.02 mL (2 units) |
For custom vial sizes and dose targets, our peptide calculator handles these conversions automatically.
Dosage Parameters in Research
GHK-Cu dosage in preclinical literature varies by administration route:
- Subcutaneous injection: 100–500 mcg per day is the most commonly referenced range in research protocols for systemic effects
- Topical application: 1–2% concentration in cream or serum base for dermatological research (skin regeneration, wound healing studies)
- In vitro: Concentrations of 1–10 μM are typical in cell culture studies examining gene expression changes
Storage After Reconstitution
Reconstituted GHK-Cu requires proper storage to maintain activity:
- Refrigerated (2–8°C): Use within 3–4 weeks. The copper-peptide bond remains stable at refrigerator temperatures
- Frozen (-20°C): For longer storage, aliquot into single-use portions. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Room temperature: Not recommended. GHK-Cu degrades more rapidly at ambient temperature, particularly in solution
- Light protection: Store in amber vials or wrapped in foil — copper peptides can be photosensitive
Syringe Reading Tips
When working with small GHK-Cu doses (100–200 mcg), precision matters:
- Use a 0.5 mL insulin syringe (50 units) for doses under 10 units — the graduation marks are easier to read
- Always draw past your target volume by 1–2 units, then push back down to eliminate air bubbles
- Read the syringe at eye level with the plunger flat edge aligned to the correct graduation
For exact volume calculations based on your specific vial size and target dose, use the Prax Peptides calculator.