GHK-Cu (50mg)
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine:copper complex) is a naturally occurring copper peptide with documented roles in wound healing, tissue remodeling, and skin regeneration. Research indicates activity in regulating genes related to collagen synthesis, antioxidant defense, and anti-inflammatory pathways. This protocol outlines practical approaches for subcutaneous administration.
Reviewed by the AllPeptides.eu Editorial Team·Last reviewed: 2026-06-16
Educational information. Not medical advice, and no efficacy claim is implied. Regulatory approval is not a use recommendation by AllPeptides.eu.
⚠️ For informational/educational purposes only. Not medical advice. We do not sell any products. Self-treatment carries serious risks — consult a healthcare professional. Disclaimer
Research monograph
See the full GHK-Cu encyclopedia page with mechanism, evidence tier, related variants and research context.
How It Works
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring tripeptide that complexes with copper ions to regulate multiple biological processes. Research has demonstrated its involvement in healing via enhanced gene expression of collagen and decorin, activation of tissue remodeling pathways, and regulation of genes related to antioxidant defense and anti-inflammatory responses. The peptide exhibits multifunctional activity in skin, nervous system, and vascular tissue, with documented gene-regulatory effects that extend beyond simple wound healing.
Quick Start
- Reconstitution: Add 3.0 mL sterile water → 16.67 mg/mL concentration.
- Typical Range: 1.0–2.0 mg per injection (5 days/wk or 3×/wk).
- Storage: Lyophilized: −20 °C; reconstituted: refrigerate 2–8 °C; use within 30 days.
Conservative Approach (3 mL = 16.67 mg/mL · 5 days/wk)
Route: Subcutaneous | Frequency: 5 days/week
| Week | Dose | Units (per injection) |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–4 | 1.0 mg (1000 mcg) | 6 Units (0.06 mL) |
| Weeks 5–8 | 1.5 mg (1500 mcg) | 9 Units (0.09 mL) |
| Weeks 9–12+ | 2.0 mg (2000 mcg) | 12 Units (0.12 mL) |
Studies report administration once daily, 5 days/week subcutaneously. This gradual titration allows for assessment of individual tolerance. Alternative protocol: 2.0 mg 3×/week (e.g., Mon/Wed/Fri) — ~6 mg/wk.
Related compounds
Reconstitution Steps
- Withdraw 3.0 mL of bacteriostatic water (BAC water). Alternatively: 0.6% acetic acid may improve copper complex stability for long-term storage.
- Slowly inject down the side of the vial to minimize foaming.
- Gently swirl or rotate until fully dissolved (do not shake vigorously). The solution will have a slight blue tint (normal, due to the copper).
- Note the date of reconstitution and refrigerate at 2–8 °C, protecting from light.
Protocol Overview
- Objective: Support tissue remodeling, wound healing, and skin regeneration via documented biological pathways.
- Schedule: Subcutaneous injections for 8–12 weeks (extendable to 16 if needed).
- Storage: Lyophilized frozen; reconstituted refrigerated and used within 30 days.
Dosing Protocol
- Conservative (5 days/wk): Start at 1.0 mg daily; titrate to 1.5–2.0 mg over 4–8 weeks.
- Alternative (3×/wk): Fixed 2.0 mg per injection for a simplified schedule.
- Cycle Duration: 8–12 weeks typically; extendable to 16 weeks as needed.
- Break between cycles: After the cycle (8–12 weeks), a washout period of 2–4 weeks is recommended. GHK-Cu supports tissue regeneration — the pause allows for evaluation of results.
Washout & Cycle Restart
When can I restart?
After the cycle (8–12 weeks), a washout period of 2–4 weeks is recommended. GHK-Cu supports tissue regeneration — the pause allows for evaluation of results.
Minimum wait period: 4 weeks
Storage Instructions
- Lyophilized (dry powder): Store at −20 °C or below in dry, dark conditions.
- Reconstituted: Refrigerate at 2–8 °C; use within 30 days. Bacteriostatic water inhibits bacterial growth.
- Aliquoting: For longer-term storage, aliquot into sterile vials and freeze at −20 °C. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Allow vials to reach room temperature before opening.
Important Notes
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
Potential Benefits:
- Supports wound healing and tissue repair through collagen synthesis and remodeling pathways.
- Positive regulatory effects on genes for antioxidant enzymes, growth factors, and anti-inflammatory signaling.
- Activity in nervous system function and cognitive pathways in preclinical models.
- Generally well-tolerated; most common side effects are mild injection site reactions (transient redness, itching).
Potential Side Effects:
- Injection site reactions (redness, itching — transient).
- Local erythema or skin dryness (topical use).
- Rare allergic reaction to the copper complex.
⚠️ Serious Warnings & Long-Term Risks
The following warnings are based on published literature, FDA labels, and post-marketing surveillance. They do not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional.
Angiogenesis & tissue remodeling
GHK-Cu promotes angiogenesis, tissue regeneration, and increases collagen/elastin. Theoretical concern for enhancing existing tumors, though no clinical signal exists.
📄 Life Sci 2012References
- J. Dermatological Science — GHK-Cu stimulates collagen synthesis and wound healing
View Source - Wound Repair and Regeneration (Wiley) — Copper peptides in healing: tissue remodeling and collagen
View Source - Int. J. Molecular Sciences (PMC) — Regenerative and protective actions of GHK-Cu: a gene regulation analysis
View Source - Biomaterials (Elsevier) — GHK regulation of metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors
View Source - Brain Sciences (MDPI) — Effect of GHK on nervous system gene expression
View Source
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External Sources & Regulatory Status
Regulatory Approvals
Research-only — Cosmetic (topical) use unrestricted
Educational information. Not medical advice, and no efficacy claim is implied. Regulatory approval is not a use recommendation by AllPeptides.eu.
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