AHK-Cu
Also known as: Copper Peptide AHK
A copper peptide variant with tissue repair, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing properties. Also supports hair growth and collagen synthesis. Can be used topically or via subcutaneous injection.
Beginner Basics
Plain-English guide to AHK-Cu
What it does
This peptide contains copper and helps your body repair damaged tissues, reduce swelling, and build stronger skin by boosting collagen production. Researchers commonly study it for wound healing, skin firmness, and hair growth.
Typical dose
Researchers typically use 50-200 micrograms once daily, with lower doses (50-100 mcg) for topical application and higher doses (100-200 mcg) for injections under the skin. Start at the lower end to see how your body responds.
When to inject
Can be injected any time of day. Evening is often preferred if using it on skin topically, since you're resting afterward.
Storage
Keep the dry powder in a freezer at -20°C. Once mixed with liquid, store it in the refrigerator between 2-8°C and keep it away from direct light.
First-timer tip
Start with the lowest dose on the list and wait a few days to observe how you respond before increasing-this peptide works gradually and there's no benefit to rushing the dose up.
On This Page
Research Status
Limited Clinical Data
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
Typically resolves within 1-2 hours. Caused by needle trauma or minor inflammatory response. Minimize by rotating sites, using proper injection technique, and allowing solution to reach room temperature before injection.
Usually brief and self-resolving. Reduce by allowing peptide to warm to room temperature and injecting slowly over 3-5 seconds.
May occur in sensitive individuals. Discontinue use and allow skin to recover. Patch test on a small area first if prone to irritation.
Copper is essential but toxic in excess. Adhere strictly to recommended dosage (50-200 mcg daily). Symptoms of copper toxicity include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and neurological effects. Seek medical attention if suspected.
Anaphylaxis or severe allergic response is extremely rare but possible. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, swelling of face/throat, severe rash, or rapid heartbeat. Seek emergency medical care immediately if suspected.
Results from repeated injections at the same site. Prevent by rotating injection sites systematically with each dose. Allow at least 1 inch between injection points.
Uncommon; may be related to individual sensitivity or rapid absorption. Ensure adequate hydration and rest after injection.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 50-200 mcg |
Frequency, timing and route - members only | |
Research disclaimer
Figures drawn from published research literature and community logs. Not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution Guide
Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline, use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2-8°C
Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Molecular and Pharmacological Data
| Molecular weight | 408 Da (GHK-Cu complex) |
| Half-life | 30-60 minutes in plasma (short half-life; local tissue retention extends effects) |
| Sequence | Members only |
AHK-Cu (copper-bound tripeptide GHK) functions as a tissue repair and regeneration signal. The copper complex enhances collagen and elastin synthesis by upregulating gene expression in fibroblasts, promotes angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation), and modulates inflammatory cytokine production. It also stimulates matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity in a controlled manner to facilitate tissue remodeling and wound healing.
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View all peptidesResearch Use Only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. AHK-Cu is not approved for human use by the FDA or any equivalent regulatory body. This is not medical advice. Do not use any substance discussed here for therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative purposes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The Peptide Volt does not endorse the use of any research chemicals. 18+ only.