Peptide Storage Guidelines
Proper storage conditions for lyophilized and reconstituted peptides to maintain stability and potency.
Why Storage Matters
Peptides are fragile molecules that can degrade through:
- Hydrolysis: Water breaks peptide bonds
- Oxidation: Oxygen damages amino acids
- Photodegradation: Light breaks down structure
- Microbial contamination: Bacteria consume peptides
Lyophilized (Freeze-Dried) Peptides
Peptides as received from vendors - dry powder in sealed vials:
| Storage Condition | Stability | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer (-20°C) | Years | Long-term storage |
| Refrigerator (2-8°C) | Months to 1 year | Medium-term |
| Room temperature | Weeks to months | Short-term only |
Best Practices
- Keep in original sealed vials until use
- Store in freezer for longest shelf life
- Protect from light (keep in box or wrap in foil)
- Allow vial to reach room temp before opening (prevents condensation)
- Minimize freeze-thaw cycles if storing in freezer
Reconstituted Peptides
After mixing with bacteriostatic water or saline:
| Condition | Stability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (2-8°C) | 4-6 weeks | Standard recommendation |
| Freezer (-20°C) | Months | Avoid multiple thaw cycles |
| Room temperature | Days | Not recommended |
Important: Use bacteriostatic water (BAC) for reconstitution when possible. The benzyl alcohol preservative helps prevent bacterial growth. Sterile water lacks this protection.
Best Practices
- Refrigerate immediately after reconstitution
- Never leave at room temperature for extended periods
- Use within 4-6 weeks for most peptides
- Consider aliquoting into smaller portions if freezing
- Label with reconstitution date and concentration
Peptide-Specific Considerations
BPC-157
- Relatively stable peptide
- Lyophilized: Stable for months at room temp, years frozen
- Reconstituted: 4-6 weeks refrigerated
TB-500
- Good stability profile
- Lyophilized: Years frozen, months refrigerated
- Reconstituted: 4 weeks refrigerated recommended
GH Secretagogues (Ipamorelin, CJC-1295, etc.)
- Moderate stability
- Store lyophilized frozen for best results
- Reconstituted: Use within 4 weeks
Semaglutide
- Very stable peptide
- Manufacturer pens stable at room temp for weeks
- Research peptide: Refrigerate for best stability
Signs of Degradation
Indicators that a peptide may have degraded:
- Color change: Yellowing or darkening
- Cloudiness: Solution should be clear
- Particles: Visible floaters or precipitate
- Unusual smell: Peptide solutions should be odorless
- Reduced potency: Diminished research effects
Equipment Recommendations
Essential
- Dedicated refrigerator space (not door - too warm)
- Temperature monitoring (thermometer)
- Light-blocking container or foil
Recommended
- Small freezer for long-term storage
- Desiccant packets for humidity control
- Labeling system for tracking dates
Common Mistakes
- Door storage: Refrigerator doors are warmest - use shelves
- Forgetting to label: Always note date reconstituted
- Excessive handling: Minimize vial manipulation
- Temperature swings: Consistent temperature is key
- Using past expiration: When in doubt, discard