1. What are peptides?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that serve as the building blocks of proteins. They are commonly used in research, cosmetic formulations, and wellness studies to explore cellular communication, recovery, and tissue support.

2. How should peptides be stored before reconstitution?

Unmixed (lyophilized) peptides should always be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

• Short-term storage: Keep at 2–8°C (refrigerated).
• Long-term storage: Store at -20°C (freezer) for maximum stability.

Always keep vials tightly sealed to protect from moisture and temperature fluctuations.

3. What should I use for reconstitution?

The most common solvent used to reconstitute peptides is bacteriostatic water (BAC water) or sterile water for injection, depending on intended use and personal preference.

• Bacteriostatic water contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol, which helps preserve the peptide for multiple uses.
• Sterile water is preservative-free and should be used immediately after mixing.

⚠️ Always use sterile technique when reconstituting to avoid contamination.

4. How do I reconstitute peptides properly?

1. Clean the vial tops with an alcohol wipe.
2. Draw the desired volume of BAC or sterile water into a sterile syringe.
3. Slowly inject the water into the peptide vial, letting the solvent run down the side to avoid foaming or damaging the peptide bonds.
4. Gently roll (do not shake) the vial until the powder fully dissolves.
5. Allow the vial to rest a few minutes until all particles are fully mixed.

5. How long do peptides last after reconstitution?

When stored correctly:

• Refrigerated (2–8°C): Typically stable for up to 30 days when mixed with BAC water.
• Freezer (-20°C): Can remain stable for several months, but avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles.

Always check for discoloration, cloudiness, or particles before use—these can indicate degradation or contamination.

6. How do I handle and transport peptides?

Keep peptides cool during transport. When ordering online, ensure the package includes cold packs or insulation. Once received, refrigerate or freeze immediately.

7. Can peptides be exposed to heat or light?

No. Heat and light can break down peptide chains and reduce their integrity. Keep vials sealed and away from windows, heat sources, or prolonged exposure to room temperature.

8. Why is peptide quality important?

High-quality peptides are produced under sterile, controlled laboratory conditions to ensure purity and accurate amino acid sequencing. Always purchase peptides from reputable suppliers that provide COA (Certificate of Analysis) and batch traceability.

9. What's the difference between lyophilized and liquid peptides?

Lyophilized peptides are freeze-dried powders—the preferred form for stability and long shelf life. Liquid peptides are pre-dissolved but generally have a shorter lifespan and higher risk of degradation.

10. How should I dispose of peptides?

Dispose of unused or expired peptides in accordance with local waste disposal regulations. Do not pour into drains or regular trash without checking proper guidelines for biomedical materials.

11. Are peptides legal to purchase?

Peptides sold for research purposes are legal to purchase for laboratory and educational use in many regions. However, they are not approved by the FDA for human consumption or therapeutic use unless specifically indicated. Always use responsibly and in accordance with applicable laws.

12. Do peptides require refrigeration during shipping?

Most suppliers ship lyophilized peptides with temperature-controlled packaging. Minor time at ambient temperature typically does not affect peptide stability, but refrigeration upon arrival is recommended.

13. How can I ensure accurate measurements when reconstituting?

Use insulin syringes or graduated sterile syringes to measure water precisely. This ensures correct dilution and repeatability in your research or formulation.

14. What is the recommended ratio for reconstitution?

Each peptide may have its own suggested concentration. A common example:

• For a 10 mg vial, adding 2 mL of BAC water results in a 5 mg/mL concentration (0.5 mg per 0.1 mL).

Always calculate based on your specific vial strength and desired dose or concentration.

15. What are common signs of peptide degradation?

• Color change (clear → yellow/brown)
• Cloudy appearance
• Visible particles or clumping

If any of these occur, discard the vial.

16. Can I travel with peptides?

Yes, if properly sealed and cooled. Use insulated cases or cold packs when traveling. Always comply with airline and customs regulations regarding laboratory materials.