A peptide dosage cheat sheet can mean the difference between real results and wasted money. With over 130 peptides now discussed across clinics, forums, and group chats, finding accurate dosing information has become frustratingly difficult. Reddit threads contradict clinic websites. Vendor guides prioritize sales over safety. And two people running the same protocol can get wildly different outcomes.
This guide cuts through that noise. Every dosage, frequency, and cycle length listed here is drawn from clinical trial data, established compounding protocols, and practitioner-verified references, not anonymous forum posts. Whether someone new to peptide therapy is exploring growth hormone secretagogues for recovery, GLP-1 agonists for fat loss, or healing peptides for tissue repair, the protocols below provide a clear starting framework.
One critical note before reading further: peptide therapy requires medical supervision. This cheat sheet is educational, not prescriptive. Individual dosing depends on body weight, health status, genetics, and bloodwork. Always work with a qualified provider — compare peptide therapy providers to find the right fit.
How Peptide Dosing Works: Key Principles Before You Start
Most therapeutic peptides arrive as lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in small vials. Before injection, they must be reconstituted with bacteriostatic water (BAC water), which contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol to prevent bacterial growth. This reconstitution step is where dosing math begins, and where mistakes happen most often.
The Basic Formula
The dose-per-tick calculation is straightforward:
Dose per tick = Peptide amount in vial ÷ BAC water added (in units)
A standard insulin syringe holds 100 units per 1 mL. So if a 5 mg vial is reconstituted with 2 mL (200 units) of BAC water, each tick mark on the syringe equals 25 mcg. To pull a 250 mcg dose, draw to the 10-unit mark.
Here are the most common reconstitution setups:
- 5 mg vial + 2 mL BAC water = 25 mcg per tick (standard for BPC-157, Ipamorelin, CJC-1295)
- 10 mg vial + 2 mL BAC water = 50 mcg per tick (common for TB-500, GHK-Cu)
- 5 mg vial + 1 mL BAC water = 50 mcg per tick (more concentrated, smaller injection volume)
Storage and Handling
Once reconstituted, peptides must be refrigerated at 2–8°C (36–46°F) and used within 2–4 weeks depending on the compound. Never freeze a reconstituted solution. Protect vials from light and avoid shaking, gently swirl instead.
Route of Administration
The vast majority of peptides are administered via subcutaneous (SC) injection, typically in the abdominal fat or thigh. A few exceptions exist: MK-677 is oral, Selank and Semax are intranasal, and GHK-Cu can be applied topically. The route matters because it directly affects absorption rate and bioavailability.
Why Precision Matters
Peptide dosages operate in the microgram (mcg) range, not milligrams. A miscalculation of even a few tick marks can double or halve an intended dose. Using a 1 mL insulin syringe with clear unit markings is non-negotiable for accuracy. Platforms like PeptideInjections.ai can connect patients with board-certified providers who walk through reconstitution and injection technique as part of onboarding, a step worth taking for anyone new to peptide therapy.
Growth Hormone and Recovery Peptides: CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, and BPC-157 Dosages
Growth hormone peptides and healing compounds are the most commonly prescribed category in peptide therapy. Here's what the protocols actually look like.
CJC-1295 (no DAC) + Ipamorelin
This combination is considered the gold standard GH secretagogue stack. CJC-1295 (a GHRH analog) and Ipamorelin (a GHRP) work through different receptor pathways, creating a synergistic effect that can amplify growth hormone output by 3–5x above baseline in a natural pulsatile pattern.
Standard Protocol:
- Ipamorelin: 200–300 mcg per injection
- CJC-1295 no DAC: 100 mcg per injection (approximately 1–2 mcg/kg body weight)
- Frequency: 2–3x daily, morning (fasted), post-workout, and before bed
- Timing: Empty stomach required (2+ hours after eating, no food for 30 minutes post-injection)
- Cycle: 8–12 weeks on, then 2–4 weeks off to maintain receptor sensitivity
Both peptides can be drawn into the same syringe. The combo works best for body recomposition, sleep quality, and training recovery. Results typically take 3–6 months to fully manifest.
Required bloodwork: IGF-1 at baseline and 4–6 weeks, fasting glucose, HbA1c, and fasting insulin.
Sermorelin
A gentler GHRH analog and often the recommended entry point for GH peptide beginners. Previously FDA-approved under the brand name Geref.
- Dose: 200–300 mcg/day
- Timing: 30 minutes before bedtime on an empty stomach (90+ minute fast)
- Schedule: 5 nights on, 2 nights off
- Cycle: 3–6 months, then reassess IGF-1 levels
Sermorelin preserves natural GH pulsatility and has a very clean side effect profile. It's often combined with Ipamorelin (100–300 mcg) for an additive GHRH + GHRP effect at bedtime.
BPC-157
The most popular healing peptide globally, BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound-157) targets tendon, ligament, GI, and soft tissue repair through VEGF and nitric oxide pathways. Evidence grade is D (preclinical), but the volume of animal data is extensive.
- Dose: 250–500 mcg per injection
- Frequency: Twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart
- Injection site: Can be injected near the injury for localized effect
- Cycle: 4–6 weeks on, then reassess
- Reconstitution: Standard BAC water, store at 2–8°C for up to 4 weeks
BPC-157 is frequently stacked with TB-500 (the "Wolverine Stack") for combined local and systemic repair. An oral capsule form also exists for GI-specific applications.
Common side effects are minimal, occasional injection site irritation, rare mild nausea or headache. The primary caution is its angiogenic potential, making it contraindicated for anyone with active cancer.
Fat Loss and Metabolic Peptides: Tesamorelin, AOD-9604, and Semaglutide Dosages
Fat loss peptides have exploded in popularity since 2023, driven largely by the GLP-1 revolution. But they aren't all the same class of molecule, and the dosing protocols vary significantly.
Semaglutide
FDA-approved for weight loss (brand name Wegovy) and type 2 diabetes (Ozempic), semaglutide has Grade A evidence, the strongest rating available. It acts on the GLP-1 receptor to reduce appetite, slow gastric emptying, and improve insulin sensitivity.
Standard Titration Protocol:
- Weeks 1–4: 0.25 mg weekly
- Weeks 5–8: 0.5 mg weekly
- Weeks 9–12: 1.0 mg weekly
- Weeks 13–16: 1.7 mg weekly
- Week 17+: 2.4 mg weekly (maintenance)
Route: Subcutaneous, once weekly. Injection day should remain consistent.
The gradual titration isn't optional. Jumping to higher doses too quickly causes significant GI side effects, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Clinical trials showed average weight loss of 15–17% of body weight over 68 weeks at the 2.4 mg dose.
Tirzepatide
A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist (brand name Mounjaro/Zepbound), tirzepatide showed even greater weight loss in head-to-head trials, up to 22.5% body weight reduction in the SURMOUNT-1 trial. Also FDA-approved with Grade A evidence.
- Starting dose: 2.5 mg weekly for 4 weeks
- Titration: Increase by 2.5 mg every 4 weeks
- Maintenance: 5–15 mg weekly, based on tolerability and response
- Route: Subcutaneous, once weekly
Tesamorelin
FDA-approved specifically for HIV-associated lipodystrophy, tesamorelin is a GHRH analog that reduces visceral fat. It's used off-label in anti-aging and body composition protocols.
- Dose: 1 mg twice daily (AM and PM)
- Schedule: 5 days on, 2 days off
- Cycle: 8 weeks on, 8 weeks off
- Reconstitution: 10 mg vial in 2 mL BAC water: 1 mg = 20 units on a 1 mL syringe
AOD-9604
A fragment of human growth hormone (amino acids 176–191), AOD-9604 targets fat metabolism without the broader GH effects. Evidence is limited (Grade C–D), but it's a Category 1 compoundable peptide.
- Dose: 300 mcg daily (approximately 11 units from a 5 mg/2 mL reconstitution)
- Timing: Morning, fasted
- Schedule: 5 days on, 2 days off
- Cycle: 8 weeks on, 8 weeks off
- Alternative: Available as a topical cream (1 mL daily)
For anyone trying to determine which fat loss peptide fits their situation, PeptideInjections.ai matches patients with providers who specialize in metabolic protocols and can order appropriate baseline labs before starting therapy.
Immune and Longevity Peptides: Thymosin Alpha-1, Epithalon, and GHK-Cu Dosages
This category flies under the radar compared to GH and weight loss peptides, but it's growing fast, particularly among patients focused on immune resilience and biological aging.
Thymosin Alpha-1
Originally FDA-approved internationally for hepatitis B and C treatment, Thymosin Alpha-1 is a thymic peptide that modulates immune function by activating dendritic cells and enhancing T-cell activity. It's used off-label for chronic infections, immune support, and autoimmune conditions.
- Dose: 1.6 mg subcutaneously
- Frequency: Twice weekly for acute immune support: some protocols use daily dosing at lower levels (125–200 mcg) for extended periods
- Cycle: Typically 50 days on, then 4 weeks off
- Evidence grade: B (moderate, multiple human trials, approved in over 30 countries)
Bloodwork should include a CBC with differential at baseline and periodically during treatment. Thymosin Alpha-1 is generally well-tolerated, with injection site redness being the most common complaint.
Epithalon (Epitalon)
A synthetic tetrapeptide analog of epithalamin, Epithalon targets the enzyme telomerase, which maintains telomere length, a key biomarker of cellular aging. Russian researcher Vladimir Khavinson's studies showed telomerase activation and potential lifespan extension in animal models.
- Dose: 2 mg daily
- Timing: Evening (PM) administration
- Duration: 20 consecutive days per course
- Frequency: Repeat 3 times per year (every 4 months)
- Reconstitution: 20 mg vial in 2 mL BAC water: 2 mg = 20 units
Evidence grade sits at C–D. No large-scale human RCTs exist, but the preclinical data and decades of use in Russian clinical settings provide a meaningful track record. Epithalon is often stacked with MOTS-c (a mitochondrial peptide) for a comprehensive longevity protocol.
GHK-Cu
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper complex) is a naturally occurring peptide that declines significantly after age 60. It stimulates collagen synthesis, activates wound healing pathways, and has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Two primary protocols exist:
- Subcutaneous (systemic): 50–200 mcg daily for 6–8 weeks
- Topical (skin/wound): Applied twice daily to target area: human data supports efficacy for skin rejuvenation and post-procedure healing
GHK-Cu pairs well with BPC-157 for injury recovery and post-surgical healing. It's a Category 1 compoundable peptide with moderate evidence (Grade C) and a favorable safety profile.
Key genes influencing response include COL1A1 (collagen production) and MMP2 (tissue remodeling). Genetic testing through a qualified provider can help predict individual response, something the AI matching system at PeptideInjections.ai can help help by connecting patients with practitioners who incorporate pharmacogenomic data into their protocols.
Critical Dosing Variables: Timing, Cycling, and Safety Considerations
Getting the dose right is only part of the equation. When a peptide is taken, how long it's used, and what safety guardrails are in place all significantly affect outcomes.
Timing
Most peptides require an empty stomach for optimal absorption. Growth hormone secretagogues (CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, Sermorelin) should be injected at least 2 hours after the last meal, with no food for 30 minutes afterward. This prevents insulin spikes that blunt GH release.
Specific timing recommendations by peptide type:
- GH secretagogues: Morning fasted, post-workout, and/or 30 minutes before bedtime
- GLP-1 agonists (Semaglutide, Tirzepatide): Same day each week, any time of day
- Healing peptides (BPC-157): Twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart
- PT-141 (Bremelanotide): 30–60 minutes before anticipated sexual activity: do not exceed 2 mg per 72-hour period
Cycling
Peptide cycling prevents receptor desensitization and maintains long-term efficacy. The two most common cycling patterns are:
- 5 on / 2 off: Five days of dosing, two days rest each week (common for Sermorelin, AOD-9604, Tesamorelin)
- 8–12 weeks on / 2–8 weeks off: Longer blocks with dedicated rest periods (standard for CJC/Ipamorelin, BPC-157)
GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide are the exception, they're typically used continuously without cycling, as the therapeutic effect depends on sustained receptor activation.
Safety Essentials
Every peptide protocol should include baseline and follow-up bloodwork. At minimum:
- IGF-1 (for any GH-related peptide)
- Fasting glucose and HbA1c (especially with MK-677, HGH, or GLP-1 agonists)
- CBC with differential (immune peptides)
- Comprehensive metabolic panel (liver and kidney function)
Start low, titrate up. This principle applies across the board. Semaglutide's mandatory titration schedule exists for a reason, aggressive dosing causes unnecessary side effects. The same logic applies to GH peptides, where starting at the lower end of the dosing range for 1–2 weeks helps identify individual tolerance.
Red flags that require immediate medical attention:
- Persistent swelling in hands or feet (possible fluid retention from GH excess)
- Significant glucose elevation on follow-up labs
- Severe GI symptoms on GLP-1 therapy that don't resolve within 48 hours
- Signs of allergic reaction at injection sites beyond mild, transient redness
Self-prescribing peptides based on internet guides, including this one, carries real risk. The safest approach is working with a physician who understands these compounds. PeptideInjections.ai was built specifically for this: its AI matching system connects patients with specialized peptide therapy providers in about 2 minutes, removing the guesswork of finding a qualified clinician.
Conclusion
This peptide dosage cheat sheet covers the major protocols people are actually using in 2026, from GH secretagogues and healing compounds to GLP-1 agonists and longevity peptides. But a cheat sheet is a starting point, not a finish line.
Every protocol listed here requires individual adjustment based on bloodwork, body composition, health history, and, increasingly, genetic factors that influence receptor sensitivity and metabolic response. The difference between someone who gets great results and someone who spins their wheels often comes down to proper medical guidance.
Bookmark this guide as a quick-reference resource. But before injecting anything, get connected with a provider who knows these compounds. A good clinician will adjust doses based on lab results, not guesswork. That's where real outcomes come from.
Frequently Asked Questions About Peptide Dosing
How do I calculate the correct peptide dosage for my insulin syringe?
Divide the total peptide amount in the vial by the volume of bacteriostatic water added. For example, a 5 mg vial reconstituted with 2 mL BAC water yields 25 mcg per unit on a 100-unit insulin syringe. Use the formula: Dose per tick = Peptide amount ÷ BAC water volume (in units).
What is the standard dosing protocol for CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin combined?
CJC-1295 (no DAC): 100 mcg per injection; Ipamorelin: 200–300 mcg per injection. Inject 2–3x daily on an empty stomach (morning, post-workout, before bed). Use 8–12 weeks on, then 2–4 weeks off. Both can be drawn in the same syringe for synergistic 3–5x GH amplification.
How should I dose BPC-157 for injury recovery?
Standard dose is 250–500 mcg per injection, administered twice daily approximately 12 hours apart. Inject subcutaneously near the injury site for localized effect. Run for 4–6 weeks, then reassess. Pair with TB-500 (the 'Wolverine Stack') for enhanced systemic and local tissue repair.
What is the recommended starting dose for Semaglutide?
Start with 0.25 mg weekly for weeks 1–4, then titrate by 0.5 mg every 4 weeks up to 2.4 mg maintenance by week 17+. Gradual titration is essential to minimize GI side effects like nausea and diarrhea. Inject subcutaneously on the same day each week.
Why do peptides require an empty stomach and how long should I wait?
Growth hormone secretagogues like CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin require an empty stomach to prevent insulin spikes, which blunt GH release. Wait at least 2 hours after eating before injection and avoid food for 30 minutes post-injection to maintain optimal absorption and hormone secretion.
What is peptide cycling and why is it important?
Peptide cycling prevents receptor desensitization and maintains long-term efficacy. Common patterns are 5 days on/2 days off weekly, or 8–12 weeks on/2–8 weeks off. GLP-1 agonists like Semaglutide are exceptions—they're used continuously without cycling for sustained therapeutic effect.