Getting Started with Peptide Research
A comprehensive step-by-step guide for researchers new to peptides. Learn about equipment, reconstitution, storage, and your first protocol.
Essential Equipment
What you need before starting
Insulin Syringes
Use 29-31 gauge, 0.5mL or 1mL insulin syringes for subcutaneous injections. The fine needle minimizes discomfort.
- U-100 markings (100 units = 1mL)
- 29-31 gauge needle
- New syringe for each injection
Bacteriostatic Water
Sterile water with 0.9% benzyl alcohol preservative. Essential for reconstituting peptides safely.
- Contains preservative for multi-use
- 30-day shelf life after opening
- Do NOT use sterile water (no preservative)
Alcohol Swabs
70% isopropyl alcohol pads for sanitizing vial tops and injection sites.
- Swab vial rubber stopper before drawing
- Clean injection site before injecting
- Let alcohol dry before injection
Sharps Container
FDA-approved container for safe disposal of used needles and syringes.
- Never recap needles
- Dispose when 3/4 full
- Check local disposal regulations
Refrigerator Storage
Dedicated space for storing reconstituted peptides at proper temperature.
- Temperature: 2-8°C (36-46°F)
- Avoid door shelves (temperature fluctuation)
- Never freeze reconstituted peptides
Labels & Tracking
Keep detailed records of reconstitution dates, concentrations, and usage.
- Label each vial with date and concentration
- Track injection sites and rotate
- Note any observations or effects
Reconstitution Basics
How to prepare your peptides
Step-by-Step Process
Clean the vial top
Wipe the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab and let it dry completely.
Draw bacteriostatic water
Use a new syringe to draw the recommended amount of BAC water (check protocol).
Inject slowly down the vial wall
Angle the needle against the glass and let water trickle down slowly. Never spray directly on the powder.
Gently swirl to dissolve
Roll the vial between your palms or gently swirl. Never shake vigorously - this can damage the peptide.
Label and refrigerate
Write the date, peptide name, and concentration on the vial. Store at 2-8°C immediately.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Spraying water directly on powder
This can cause clumping and incomplete dissolution. Always inject down the vial wall.
Shaking the vial vigorously
Aggressive shaking can denature the peptide. Gentle swirling is sufficient.
Using sterile water instead of BAC water
Sterile water has no preservative and allows bacterial growth. Always use bacteriostatic water.
Freezing reconstituted peptides
Freeze-thaw cycles damage peptide structure. Only freeze lyophilized (powder) peptides.
Reusing syringes
Always use a new sterile syringe for each injection to prevent contamination and infection.
Understanding Dosing
How to calculate and measure doses
The Basic Formula
Concentration = Peptide Amount ÷ Water Volume
For example, if you add 2mL of BAC water to a 5mg vial:
5mg ÷ 2mL = 2.5 mg/mL (or 2500 mcg/mL)
Understanding Syringe Units
Insulin syringes are marked in "units" where:
Example: BPC-157 Dosing
Step 1: Reconstitute
5mg vial + 2mL BAC water
= 2.5 mg/mL (2500 mcg/mL)
Step 2: Calculate dose
Target: 250 mcg dose
250 ÷ 2500 = 0.1 mL = 10 units
Step 3: Draw and inject
Draw 10 units on syringe
Inject subcutaneously
Proper Storage
Keep your peptides stable and effective
Lyophilized (Powder)
- Store at -20°C (freezer) for long-term storage
- Can store at 2-8°C (refrigerator) for weeks
- Protect from light and moisture
- Stable for months to years when frozen
Reconstituted (Liquid)
- Store at 2-8°C (refrigerator) only
- Use within 2-4 weeks (varies by peptide)
- Never freeze reconstituted peptides
- Keep away from light
Shelf Life Varies by Peptide
Some peptides like HGH are more fragile (use within 2-3 weeks), while others like BPC-157 are more stable (up to 4 weeks). Always check the specific protocol for your peptide.
Choosing Your First Protocol
Recommended starting points for beginners
For those new to peptide research, we recommend starting with well-studied compounds that have established safety profiles and straightforward protocols.
BPC-157
Well-researched healing peptide with excellent safety profile. Simple once-daily dosing.
TB-500
Tissue repair peptide often combined with BPC-157. Flexible dosing schedule.
Ipamorelin
Selective GH releaser with minimal side effects. Great introduction to GH peptides.