GHK-Cu (50 mg Vial) Dosage Protocol
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It has been studied extensively for skin rejuvenation, wound healing, collagen synthesis stimulation, and gene expression modulation.
⚡ Quickstart Highlights
Dosing & Reconstitution Guide
Route: Subcutaneous or topical | Frequency: 3–5 days per week
| Approach | Dose Per Injection | Frequency | U-100 Units | Volume (mL) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative start | 1.0 mg | 5×/week | 0.6 units | 0.060 mL |
| Standard | 1.5 mg | 5×/week | 0.9 units | 0.090 mL |
| Full protocol | 2.0 mg | 3–5×/week | 1.2 units | 0.12 mL |
Reconstitution Steps
- Draw 3.0 mL sterile or bacteriostatic water.
- Inject slowly down the vial wall.
- Gently swirl until dissolved.
- Refrigerate at 2–8°C; use within 30 days.
Supplies Planning
| Item | 8 Weeks (5×/wk, 1.5 mg) | 12 Weeks |
|---|---|---|
| GHK-Cu vials (50 mg each) | 2–3 vials | 3–4 vials |
| Insulin syringes (30 or 50-unit) | 40 | 60 |
| Sterile/bacteriostatic water (10 mL) | 1 × 10 mL | 2 × 10 mL |
| Alcohol swabs | 1 × 100-pack | 1–2 × 100-pack |
Mechanism of Action
GHK-Cu (Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine copper complex) is found naturally in human blood plasma at concentrations of ~200 ng/mL (declining with age from ~200 ng/mL at age 20 to ~80 ng/mL at age 60). It was first isolated from human plasma albumin by Loren Pickart in 1973.
Research suggests GHK-Cu modulates the expression of over 4,000 human genes — approximately 31% of the genome as mapped in one landmark study. Key actions include: stimulation of collagen, elastin, and proteoglycan synthesis; upregulation of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase); anti-inflammatory cytokine modulation; and activation of wound-healing pathways. Copper delivery is integral — the Cu²⁺ complex is required for several of these activities, including collagen cross-linking enzymes.
Research Findings & Safety Profile
- Extensive gene expression studies show modulation of pathways related to skin remodeling, anti-aging, and wound healing.
- Stimulates collagen and glycosaminoglycan synthesis in dermal fibroblast cultures.
- Studied for hair follicle enlargement and density in scalp application research.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: reduces TNF-α, IL-6, and other pro-inflammatory cytokines.
- Very wide safety margin — no toxicity observed at research doses; copper complex is efficiently utilized rather than accumulated.
- Concentrations in plasma naturally decline with age, providing rationale for supplemental research applications.
Storage
| State | Temperature | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lyophilized | −20°C (−4°F) | Up to 24 months | Minimize moisture; avoid light |
| Reconstituted | 2–8°C (35–46°F) | Up to 30 days | Avoid freeze-thaw |