AHK-Cu (50 mg Vial) Dosage Protocol
AHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide (Ala-His-Lys) studied for hair-follicle stimulation and dermal repair. Frequently formulated alongside GHK-Cu in dermatological research.
⚡ Quickstart Highlights
Dosing & Reconstitution Guide
Route: Subcutaneous or topical | Frequency: Once daily | Half-life: Short (minutes); extended local effect
Standard Approach (3 mL = 16.67 mg/mL)
Reconstituting with 3 mL bacteriostatic water produces a concentration of 16.67 mg/mL. Volume per dose changes with concentration; mg dose itself does not change between vial sizes.
| Phase / Protocol | Dose | U-100 Units | Volume | Doses per vial |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light | 1 mg | 6 units | 0.060 mL | 50 doses |
| Standard | 2 mg | 12 units | 0.12 mL | 25 doses |
Reconstitution Steps
- Wipe the vial stopper and BAC water vial with alcohol; let dry.
- Draw 3 mL of bacteriostatic water into a sterile syringe.
- Inject slowly down the inside glass wall of the peptide vial. Do not aim at the powder.
- Gently swirl until fully dissolved. Do not shake.
- Label with reconstitution date. Refrigerate at 2–8°C; use within 30 days.
Supplies Needed
Estimates for an 8-week and 12-week cycle at 2 mg per dose, once daily (7 doses/week).
| Item | 8-Week Cycle | 12-Week Cycle |
|---|---|---|
| AHK-Cu (50 mg) vials | 3 vials | 4 vials |
| Insulin syringes (U-100) | 56 | 84 |
| Bacteriostatic water (10 mL) | 1 × 10 mL | 2 × 10 mL |
| Alcohol swabs | 1 × 100-pack | 2 × 100-pack |
Protocol Overview
AHK-Cu is most commonly used topically for hair-growth protocols, with sub-Q research-grade use as an adjunct. Effects on follicular activity accumulate over 8–12 weeks.
Dosing Protocol
Daily dosing:
- Light (1 mg sub-Q daily): Topical-equivalent systemic dose.
- Standard (2 mg sub-Q daily): Standard research dose.
Topical complement: 0.05% solution applied to scalp 1–2× daily.
Cycle: 12–24 weeks continuous. Hair-cycle effects take 3–6 months to fully appear.
Storage Instructions
| State | Temperature | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Lyophilized | −20°C (−4°F) | Up to 24 months, dry & dark |
| Reconstituted | 2–8°C (35–46°F) | Up to 30 days, protect from light |
Important Notes
How This Works
AHK-Cu binds copper(II) and acts on dermal papilla cells of hair follicles, stimulating follicular angiogenesis and prolonging the anagen (growth) phase. It is structurally related to GHK-Cu and shares some downstream signaling, but with greater hair-specific activity in some studies.
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
Potential Benefits
- Stimulates hair follicle dermal papilla cells in cell culture.
- Prolongs anagen growth phase in animal models.
- Pairs with GHK-Cu in dermal protocols.
- Topical and sub-Q formulations both studied.
Side Effect Profile
- Generally well-tolerated.
- Mild injection-site or topical irritation possible.
Lifestyle Factors
- Vitamin C, zinc, biotin sufficiency supports hair quality.
- Adequate protein intake.
- Scalp massage may enhance topical delivery.
Injection Technique
- Subcutaneous into scalp area for hair protocols (some research).
- Topical application is more common.