Compound Reference Overview
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Name | GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide) |
| Reference Code | GHK-CU |
| Category | Healing & Recovery Peptide |
| Example Strength | 100 mg vial (varies by formulation) |
| Reference Range | 1–3 mg daily (investigational use) |
| Frequency | Once daily |
| Key Safety Warning | Copper-binding peptide. Contraindicated in Wilson disease or copper sensitivity. Not FDA-approved for systemic injectable use. |
Mechanism of Action (Educational)
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine). It binds copper ions and participates in tissue remodeling and repair signaling.
Preclinical data suggest it stimulates collagen synthesis, promotes angiogenesis, modulates inflammation, and influences gene expression related to tissue regeneration.
Topical use is more extensively studied in dermatologic applications. Systemic injectable use remains investigational.
Indications (Investigational)
- Skin rejuvenation research
- Wound healing investigations
- Hair growth studies
- Anti-aging signaling research
Administration (Investigational)
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Route | Subcutaneous (investigational) |
| Frequency | Once daily |
| Injection Site | Abdomen, thigh, or near treatment area |
| Timing | Any time of day |
Pharmacokinetics (Limited Human Data)
Systemic pharmacokinetic data for injectable GHK-Cu remain limited. Biologic signaling effects are typically described over weeks in skin and tissue remodeling studies.
Titration Schedule (Investigational)
No significant titration required in most investigational protocols. Typical dosing range: 1–3 mg daily.
Reconstitution & Concentration (Mathematical Standardization Model)
For educational standardization purposes, a 100 mg vial reconstituted with 5 mL diluent yields:
20 mg/mL (20,000 mcg/mL).
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Diluent | Bacteriostatic water |
| Example Reconstitution | 100 mg + 5 mL diluent |
| Resulting Concentration | 20 mg/mL (20,000 mcg/mL) |
| Stability | Up to 28 days refrigerated (2–8°C; varies by formulation) |
Conversion Reference
- 0.05 mL (5 units) = 1 mg
- 0.10 mL (10 units) = 2 mg
- 0.15 mL (15 units) = 3 mg
This section is provided strictly for arithmetic illustration and does not constitute dosing guidance.
Safety & Contraindications (Summary)
Contraindications
- Copper sensitivity
- Wilson disease
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- High-dose zinc supplementation may interfere with copper absorption
Adverse Events
- Injection site reactions
- Mild nausea
Serious Risks
- Copper toxicity (extreme doses only)
Monitoring (Investigational)
- Skin and tissue quality improvement
- Hair density changes (if applicable)
- General tolerance
Mathematical Calculation Tool
The calculator below allows mathematical concentration and volume calculations using variable vial strengths and reconstitution volumes. This tool is provided strictly for arithmetic reference.
Peptide Reconstitution Calculator
For Educational & Professional Reference Only
Disclaimer
GHK-Cu injectable use is investigational and not FDA-approved. Most clinical data involve topical applications. This content is provided strictly for educational and professional reference purposes.
Reference Sources
1. Pickart L, et al. The human tri-peptide GHK and tissue remodeling.
J Biomater Sci Polym Ed. 1999; PMID: 10204041.
2. Maquart FX, et al. Copper peptides and collagen synthesis.
Biochim Biophys Acta. 2006; PMID: 16412581.
3. Pickart L, et al. GHK-Cu gene expression modulation.
Biochim Biophys Acta. 2011; PMID: 21219841.