GHK-Cu (Injectable)¶
Tags: GHK-Cu, Copper Peptide, Skin Regeneration, Injectable
Quick Summary
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper tripeptide that declines with age, researched for collagen synthesis, wound healing, and systemic anti-aging effects. Injectable form provides systemic bioavailability.
Quick Facts¶
- Typical Dose: 1–3 mg (1–2× daily)
- Route: Injectable — SubQ (belly, thigh, arm)
- Cycle: 8–12 weeks (typical)
- Storage: 2–8°C (refrigerated)
Overview¶
GHK‑Cu is a naturally occurring copper tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Plasma levels decline from ~200 ng/ml at age 20 to ~80 ng/ml by age 60. Research shows it affects a large portion of human gene expression and promotes wound healing, collagen synthesis, and anti‑aging effects. Injectable GHK‑Cu provides systemic bioavailability but is not FDA‑approved; most high‑quality clinical evidence is from topical studies and animal models.
Key Benefits¶
- Maximum bioavailability and systemic anti‑aging effects
- Enhanced collagen production and deep dermal remodeling
- Accelerated wound healing and improved angiogenesis
- Hair growth stimulation
Mechanism of action¶
Injectable GHK‑Cu activates multiple cellular pathways including collagen synthesis, angiogenesis, immune modulation, and tissue remodeling genes that support comprehensive anti‑aging effects.
Molecular information¶
- Weight: 404.96 Da
- Length: 3 amino acids
- Type: Copper tripeptide
Amino Acid Sequence:
Complexed with copper (Cu2+) for enhanced bioavailability.
Research indications¶
- Anti‑inflammatory
- Skin regeneration
- Hair growth stimulation
- Wound healing
Research protocols¶
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anti‑aging / Skin health | 1–2 mg | 1× daily | SubQ injection |
| Hair growth stimulation | 2–3 mg | 1× daily | SubQ injection |
| Wound healing | 1–2 mg | 2× daily | SubQ near affected area |
| General wellness | 1 mg | 1× daily | SubQ injection |
| Intensive repair | 2–3 mg | 1× daily | SubQ injection |
Timing: Injectable GHK‑Cu is usually administered subcutaneously. Rotate sites to prevent irritation. Consistent timing supports steady levels.
Interactions¶
Compatible / Complementary
- BPC-157 — Synergistic
- TB-500 — Synergistic
- CJC-1295 — Compatible
Monitor
- Melanotan II — Use caution
- Iron chelators — Monitor combination
Avoid
- Copper supplements — May increase toxicity risk
How to reconstitute¶
- Allow vial to reach room temperature (15–20 minutes).
- Clean vial tops and injection sites with alcohol swabs.
- Draw calculated amount of bacteriostatic water (BAC) into syringe.
- Inject slowly down the vial side to avoid direct contact with powder.
- Gently swirl until fully dissolved (characteristic light blue color).
- Store reconstituted solution in refrigerator at 2–8°C and use within 30 days.
Important: Always use bacteriostatic water (BAC) and sterile technique.
Quality Indicators¶
Positive Signs
- Blue-tinted powder (characteristic from copper content)
- Complete dissolution to a clear light-blue solution with no particles
- Stable light blue coloration after reconstitution
- Professional packaging with sterile seals and batch information
Warning Signs
- Green/dark blue discoloration or persistent cloudiness — do not use
Side effects & safety¶
- Monitor injection sites for unusual blue discoloration
- Start with lower doses to assess copper tolerance
- Use sterile injection technique to prevent infection
- Watch for signs of copper toxicity (nausea, metallic taste)
- Avoid excessive copper supplementation from other sources
References¶
Regenerative and Protective Actions of GHK-Cu Peptide (2018)
- Review | Int J Mol Sci | PMC6073405
Comprehensive analysis of GHK-Cu's regenerative mechanisms in skin and tissue.
View Study → https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6073405/
GHK Peptide in Skin Regeneration (2015)
- Review | Biomed Res Int | PMC4508379
Detailed review of GHK-Cu's role in skin regeneration and collagen synthesis.
View Study → https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4508379/
GHK-Cu in Prevention of Oxidative Stress and Aging (2012)
- Review | Oxid Med Cell Longev | PMC3359723
Examination of GHK-Cu's antioxidant and anti-aging properties.
View Study → https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3359723/