Understanding Peptide Dosing
Learn the fundamentals of peptide dosing, including measurement units, timing considerations, and how to calculate accurate doses.
Measurement Units Explained
mcg (micrograms)
Most common unit for peptide dosing. 1000mcg = 1mg
Example: BPC-157: 250-500mcg per dose
mg (milligrams)
Used for higher-dose peptides. 1mg = 1000mcg
Example: TB-500: 2-5mg per dose
IU (International Units)
Used for some growth hormone-related peptides
Example: HGH: measured in IU based on biological activity
Units (insulin syringe)
Markings on insulin syringes. 100 units = 1ml
Example: 10 units on a 100-unit syringe = 0.1ml
Core Dosing Principles
Start Low, Go Slow
Always begin with the lowest recommended dose and gradually increase based on response. This helps identify your personal optimal dose while minimizing side effects.
Consistency Matters
Peptides work best with consistent dosing schedules. Missing doses or irregular timing can reduce effectiveness and make it harder to assess results.
Individual Response Varies
Body weight, metabolism, and individual biochemistry affect how you respond. What works for someone else may not be optimal for you.
More Is Not Always Better
Higher doses do not necessarily mean better results. Many peptides have a therapeutic window where exceeding it provides no additional benefit and may cause side effects.
How to Calculate Your Dose
Step 1: Know Your Concentration
Concentration = Peptide Amount ÷ Water Added
Example: 10mg peptide + 2ml water = 5mg/ml (or 5000mcg/ml)
Step 2: Calculate Volume Needed
Volume (ml) = Desired Dose ÷ Concentration
Example: 250mcg dose ÷ 5000mcg/ml = 0.05ml
Step 3: Convert to Syringe Units
Units = Volume (ml) × 100 (for 100-unit syringe)
Example: 0.05ml × 100 = 5 units on the syringe
Skip the math! Use our Dose Calculator to automatically calculate your exact dose with a visual syringe guide.
Timing Guidelines by Category
Growth Hormone Peptides
Ipamorelin, CJC-1295, Sermorelin
Best taken on an empty stomach, typically before bed or first thing in the morning
Note: Food, especially carbs and fats, can blunt GH release
Healing Peptides
BPC-157, TB-500
Can be taken with or without food. Timing is less critical.
Note: Consistency in timing helps maintain stable levels
Cognitive Peptides
Selank, Semax
Typically taken in the morning for daytime cognitive enhancement
Note: Nasal administration provides faster onset
Sleep Peptides
DSIP, Epithalon
Taken before bed, typically 30-60 minutes before sleep
Note: May enhance sleep quality and duration
Common Dosing Mistakes to Avoid
- Calculating dose based on syringe units instead of concentration
- Not accounting for the amount of water used in reconstitution
- Assuming all peptides use the same dosing schedule
- Ignoring body weight when applicable
- Not tracking doses and responses
- Changing multiple variables at once