GHK-Cu
1700 mcg · Daily, PM
Robert
Founder, F*CK Getting Old — independent researcher, not a medical professional.
Last reviewed · 3 cited sources
Evidence
- Human Studies
- 20
- Animal Studies
- 60
- Clinical Status
- Research
- Confidence
- Low
- Long-Term Safety
- Better established topically; limited data for injectable/systemic long-term use
What this score is: a measure of how much research exists and how far along it is (animal-only vs. human trials, research-stage vs. FDA approved) — not how safe, effective, or worth trying a compound is. A low score usually means “early stage” or “understudied,” not “bad.” A high score doesn’t mean “better” for your goals than a lower-scored one.
This is not my personal rating of the compound, not a recommendation, and not medical advice. It’s a general research synthesis for informational purposes only, not a live literature count. See the linked research and talk to a licensed clinician before making decisions based on it.
Mechanism
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding peptide studied for roles in collagen/elastin production and wound healing. It is well studied topically in cosmetic dermatology; injectable/systemic use is far less researched.
Common Protocols
- 1–2 mg daily, subcutaneous, typically PM
- Also widely used topically in skincare formulations (different evidence base than injection)
Side Effects
- Injection site irritation
- Topical formulations occasionally cause skin irritation
Interactions
- Copper-containing supplements/multivitamins may compound total copper intake — track separately
Practical Details
- Cost
- $$
- Typical Vial Size
- 50 mg
- Storage
- Refrigerate after reconstitution
Key Studies & Reviews
- Pickart L, Margolina A (2018). Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide in the light of the new gene data. Int J Mol Sci. PMID 29986520.
- Pickart L et al. (2015). GHK peptide as a natural modulator of multiple cellular pathways in skin regeneration. Biomed Res Int. PMID 26236730.
- Mortazavi SM et al. (2025). Topically applied GHK as an anti-wrinkle peptide: advantages, problems and prospective. Bioimpacts. PMID 39963574.
Search the Research
GHK-Cu FAQ
What is the typical GHK-Cu dosage?
Commonly reported protocols: 1–2 mg daily, subcutaneous, typically PM; Also widely used topically in skincare formulations (different evidence base than injection). Our reference entry uses 1700 mcg, Daily, PM. These reflect protocols reported in research and user communities, not a medical recommendation — dosing should be decided with a clinician.
What are the side effects of GHK-Cu?
Reported side effects include: Injection site irritation; Topical formulations occasionally cause skin irritation.
Is GHK-Cu FDA approved?
GHK-Cu is not FDA approved for human use and is generally sold as a research chemical, so purity and dosing are not regulated.
How much research is there on GHK-Cu?
Our evidence profile counts roughly 20 human and 60 animal studies, with low overall confidence. Long-term safety: Better established topically; limited data for injectable/systemic long-term use.
Does GHK-Cu interact with other drugs or supplements?
Copper-containing supplements/multivitamins may compound total copper intake — track separately.
How do I reconstitute GHK-Cu?
A common setup is a 50 mg vial mixed with 3 mL of bacteriostatic water, which puts a 1700 mcg dose at about 10 units on a U-100 insulin syringe. Use the reconstitution calculator with your own vial and dose to get exact numbers. Storage: Refrigerate after reconstitution.
Related compounds
PM daily for overnight tissue repair