GHK-Cu vs AHK-Cu
Dosing, half-life, mechanism, benefits, and safety — side by side.
GHK-Cu
ResearchCopper peptide complex for skin regeneration and anti-aging
Half-Life
Minutes to hours
Route
Topical/SC
Dose
1% topical or 1-2mg SC
MW
340.38 Da
AHK-Cu
ResearchAHK-Cu (Alanyl-Histidyl-Lysine Copper) is a copper-binding tripeptide structurally similar to the well-researched GHK-Cu but with an alanine substitution at the N-terminus. Like other copper peptides, AHK-Cu has been inv
Half-Life
Minutes (topical application)
Route
Topical
Dose
Apply topically 1-2 times daily (Research use only)
MW
0.9 Da
Quick Reference
| GHK-Cu | AHK-Cu | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | N/A | N/A |
| Route | Topical/SC | Topical |
| Typical Dose | 1% topical or 1-2mg SC | Apply topically 1-2 times daily (Research use only) |
| Frequency | N/A | daily |
| FDA Approved | No | No |
| WADA Status | Banned | Not banned |
⏱ Pharmacokinetics
| GHK-Cu | AHK-Cu | |
|---|---|---|
| Half-Life | Minutes to hours | Minutes (topical application) |
| Research Status | Research compound - copper_peptide | Research compound - Copper tripeptide |
| CAS Number | 130120-56-8 | 682809-81-0 |
Molecular
| GHK-Cu | AHK-Cu | |
|---|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | 340.38 | 0.9 |
| Molecular Formula | C14H24N6O4·Cu | C15H24ClCuN6O4- |
| Sequence Length | 3 aa | N/A |
| Mechanism | Copper peptide that promotes collagen synthesis | Copper tripeptide that stimulates hair follicles and promotes tissue repair |
Key Benefits
| GHK-Cu | AHK-Cu | |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Collagen production; Anti-inflammatory; Antioxidant effects; Skin rejuvenation; Hair growth support; Collagen synthesis; Wound healing; Anti-aging effects | Hair regrowth; Follicle stimulation; Anti-aging effects; Skin rejuvenation; Wound healing; Antioxidant protection |
Safety & Warnings
| GHK-Cu | AHK-Cu | |
|---|---|---|
| Safety Note | Research compound. Generally well-tolerated topically but limited long-term safety data. | Research compound. Generally well-tolerated topically but limited long-term safety data. |
| Side Effects | Low skin irritation; No cytotoxicity; Theoretical copper concerns; Injection site irritation; Headache; Fatigue; Rare allergy; Side effect reported | Mild redness; Itching; Irritation; Occasional dryness; Mostly local effects; Rare allergic rash |
| Athlete Warning | 🛑 WADA BANNED - Prohibited in competitive sports as copper_peptide complex | Not WADA banned - safe for competitive athletes when used appropriately |
Which should you choose?
Both GHK-Cu and AHK-Cu have meaningful research support. The right choice depends on your specific goals, tolerance, and whether an FDA-approved option fits your needs.
GHK-Cu vs AHK-Cu — FAQ
Which has a longer half-life: GHK-Cu or AHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu has a half-life of ~Minutes to hours while AHK-Cu has a half-life of ~Minutes (topical application). A longer half-life generally means less frequent dosing and more stable levels.
Can I stack GHK-Cu and AHK-Cu together?
Whether GHK-Cu and AHK-Cu can be stacked depends on their mechanisms and receptor targets. Use the stack compatibility checker to analyze synergies and conflicts before combining any peptides.
Which is better: GHK-Cu or AHK-Cu?
There is no universal "better" peptide — it depends on your goal. GHK-Cu is Copper peptide that promotes collagen synthesis. AHK-Cu is Copper tripeptide that stimulates hair follicles and promotes tissue repair. Choose based on your primary goal and research profile.
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