Peptide Research FAQ

Enter your vial size (in mg), the amount of bacteriostatic water you plan to add (in mL), and your target dose (in mcg, mg, or IU). The calculator computes concentration and tells you exactly how many syringe units to draw for both U-100 and U-40 syringes.

For a 5mg vial, 2 mL of bacteriostatic water gives 2,500 mcg/mL concentration — a common choice because 250 mcg = 10 units and 500 mcg = 20 units on a U-100 syringe. Use our BAC water calculator to see concentrations for any amount.

1 mg = 1,000 mcg. Peptide vials are sold by mg (e.g., 5mg), but doses are typically measured in mcg (e.g., 250 mcg). The concentration bridges these: if a 5mg vial is reconstituted with 2 mL water, concentration = 2,500 mcg/mL, so a 250 mcg dose = 0.1 mL = 10 units on U-100.

U-100 syringes hold 100 units per mL (1 unit = 0.01 mL). U-40 syringes hold 40 units per mL (1 unit = 0.025 mL). Most peptide researchers use U-100. The calculations differ — always specify which syringe you're using in dose calculations.

Reconstituted peptides stored at 2-8°C (refrigerator temperature) with bacteriostatic water typically remain stable for 28-30 days. Using sterile water instead reduces stability to a single use. Never freeze a reconstituted peptide vial.

Bacteriostatic water (BAC water) is sterile water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a preservative. It prevents bacterial growth in multi-dose vials, allowing the same vial to be used across 28-30 days. It is the standard diluent for most research peptides.

Sterile water can be used for reconstitution but lacks preservative — the vial must then be used in a single session rather than stored for multi-dose use. For any peptide you'll use over multiple days, bacteriostatic water is the standard recommendation.

For human growth hormone (HGH), 1 IU is approximately 333 mcg. So 2 IU = 666 mcg, 4 IU = 1,332 mcg. Note: most peptides are dosed in mcg, not IU — IU is primarily relevant for HGH. Use our IU conversion calculator for any amount.

Peptides are short chains of 2-50 amino acids linked by peptide bonds. They are smaller than proteins (which are typically 50+ amino acids) and act as biological signaling molecules. They regulate processes ranging from tissue repair (BPC-157) to growth hormone release (CJC-1295) to metabolic function (Semaglutide).

Research peptides are sold legally for laboratory and scientific use in most jurisdictions. They are distinct from prescription medications — some peptides like Semaglutide (Ozempic) and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) are FDA-approved drugs, while others are available only as research chemicals. Laws vary by country and intended use.

A lyophilized peptide is freeze-dried into a powder. The process removes water to prevent hydrolysis (peptide bond breakdown), enabling a shelf life of 1-2 years at room temperature vs. days in solution. Before use, it must be reconstituted by adding bacteriostatic water.

Peptide cycling refers to structured on/off protocols used in research: a period of use (4-12 weeks) followed by a break (2-4 weeks). The rationale is to prevent receptor desensitization and allow the body to maintain sensitivity. Specific cycle structures vary by peptide and research protocol.

A peptide stack combines two or more peptides in a research protocol to study synergistic effects. Common research stacks include BPC-157 + TB-500 for tissue repair, and CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin for growth hormone stimulation. Stacking protocols should always be researched individually.

Research doses are typically expressed in mcg/kg (micrograms per kilogram of body weight) or as a fixed mcg dose based on the peptide's pharmacological profile and prior study data. The PepComputer dosage calculator helps convert research reference doses to specific vial amounts and syringe measurements.

Lyophilized (dry powder) peptides should be stored in a cool, dry, dark environment. Refrigeration (2-8°C) is optimal for maximum shelf life. Most lyophilized peptides remain stable at room temperature for several months, but refrigeration extends stability to 12-24 months. Light-sensitive peptides (GHK-Cu, Melanotan II) should be stored in dark containers.

Repeated freeze-thaw cycles degrade reconstituted peptides and should be avoided. A single freeze after reconstitution may not cause significant degradation, but it is generally not recommended. The preferred approach is to refrigerate at 2-8°C and use within 30 days.

Signs of degradation include: cloudiness or particulate matter in the solution, color change (fresh solutions should be clear), unusual odor, or loss of expected biological effects. If any of these are observed, the vial should be discarded.

Yes — vigorous shaking can denature peptides and accelerate degradation. When reconstituting, roll or swirl the vial gently until the powder dissolves. Never shake a peptide vial.