Peptide Injections AI
GHK-Cu peptide therapy
Tissue Repair & HealingModerate Evidence

GHK-Cu Peptide Therapy

Benefits, Side Effects, Cost & Protocols

GHK-Cu injection vial product photoGHK-Cu peptide molecular structure diagram from PubChem

GHK-Cu (copper peptide) is a naturally occurring copper complex of the tripeptide glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine, first isolated from human plasma. It has been studied for its roles in wound healing, tissue remodeling, skin regeneration, and anti-inflammatory activity.

ByChris Riley(CFA)&Alex Evans, PharmD, MBA(PharmD, MBA)|Updated

Clinically Reviewed

Reviewed by Alex Evans, PharmD, MBA · Updated May 2026

Evidence-Based

Sourced from FDA, PubMed & ClinicalTrials.gov · View sources

FDA Status
Banned from Compounding March 2024 Removed from compounding nomination list. Available as topical cosmetic ingredient but not for injection.
Evidence
Moderate Evidence
Category
Tissue Repair & Healing

Compare GHK-Cu Prices

1 provider offering GHK-Cu — sorted lowest price first

Ageless Rx
GHK-Cu Peptide· topical
Research Use
$149
/month
Get Started

Prices shown are estimates based on publicly available data and may not reflect current pricing. Actual costs may vary by location, insurance, dosage, and formulation. Always verify directly with the provider.

How GHK-Cu Works

Copper-bound tripeptide that stimulates collagen and elastin production, promotes wound healing, and may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

GHK-Cu FAQ

What is GHK-CU?

GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide) is one of the most researched peptides for skin rejuvenation, wound healing, and collagen production. The copper complex enhances its biological activity.

How does GHK-CU work?

Copper-bound tripeptide that stimulates collagen and elastin production, promotes wound healing, and may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Is GHK-CU legal to buy?

GHK-CU is sold as a research chemical for laboratory use only. It is not approved for human use by the FDA. Regulations vary by jurisdiction.

Where can I buy GHK-CU?

GHK-CU is available as a research compound from verified online vendors. Always verify third-party testing before purchasing.

What category does GHK-CU belong to?

GHK-CU is primarily classified as a tissue repair & healing peptide. Peptides studied for their potential in wound healing, tendon/ligament repair, gut healing, and general tissue regeneration.

What are the research benefits of GHK-CU?

GHK-CU has been studied for: Collagen production, Wound healing, Skin rejuvenation, Anti-aging skin research, Hair follicle support. Collagen/wound healing star; popular for cosmetic and healing research.

Key Studies

170 total on PubMed0

Effects of topical copper tripeptide complex on CO2 laser-resurfaced skin

Miller TR, Wagner JD, Baack BR et al

Arch Facial Plast Surg · Arch Facial Plast SurgRCT

GHK-Cu offered no significant reduction in erythema or wrinkles but improved patient satisfaction.

GHK-Cu offered no significant reduction in erythema or wrinkles but improved patient satisfaction

Tripeptide-copper complex GHK-Cu (II) transiently improved healing outcome in a rat model of ACL reconstruction

Fu SC, Cheuk YC, Chiu WY et al

J Orthop ResAnimal

GHK-Cu improved knee laxity at 6 weeks post-ACLR in rats but effects did not persist.

GHK-Cu improved knee laxity at 6 weeks post-ACLR in rats but effects did not persist

Glycyl-l-histidyl-l-lysine-Cu(2+) rescues cigarette smoking-induced skeletal muscle dysfunction via a sirtuin 1-dependent pathway

Deng M, Zhang Q, Yan L et al

J Cachexia Sarcopenia MuscleAnimal

GHK-Cu rescues cigarette smoking-induced skeletal muscle dysfunction via SIRT1 activation in mice and human cell models

Golgi-targeted copper delivery strategy via enhancing copper-dependent proteins' activity for fascia regeneration

GHK-Cu Compound Data

GHK-Cu peptide chemical structure and molecular formula from PubChem
Molecular Formula
C14H21CuN6O4-
Molecular Weight
400.90 g/mol
IUPAC Name
copper (2S)-6-amino-2-[[(2S)-2-(2-azanidylacetyl)azanidyl-3-(1H-imidazol-4-yl)propanoyl]amino]hexanoate
View full compound on PubChem
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Peptide therapies have not been evaluated by the FDA for most listed indications.All prices shown are estimates based on publicly available data and may not reflect current pricing — providers and brands set their own prices and can change them at any time. Always verify pricing directly with the provider before purchasing. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol.

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