How to Reconstitute Peptides
A complete guide to properly mixing lyophilized (freeze-dried) peptides with bacteriostatic water for safe and effective use.
Understanding Reconstitution
Peptides are typically sold as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder to maintain stability during shipping and storage. Before use, they must be reconstituted (mixed) with bacteriostatic water (BAC water).
Bacteriostatic water contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol, which prevents bacterial growth and allows for multiple uses from the same vial over several weeks.
Step-by-Step Guide
Gather Your Supplies
Before starting, ensure you have everything ready in a clean workspace.
- Lyophilized peptide vial
- Bacteriostatic water (BAC water)
- Alcohol swabs (70% isopropyl)
- Sterile syringe (1-3ml)
- Clean, flat surface
Clean the Vial Tops
Use alcohol swabs to thoroughly clean the rubber stoppers on both vials.
- Wipe the peptide vial stopper
- Wipe the BAC water vial stopper
- Let alcohol dry completely (30 seconds)
- Do not blow on or touch the cleaned surfaces
Draw the Bacteriostatic Water
Carefully draw your desired amount of BAC water into the syringe.
- Remove syringe cap, insert needle into BAC water vial
- Turn vial upside down
- Draw desired amount (typically 1-2ml)
- Remove any air bubbles by tapping syringe
Add Water to Peptide Vial
This is the most critical step - be gentle to preserve peptide integrity.
- Insert needle into peptide vial at an angle
- Aim the stream at the SIDE of the vial, not directly on the powder
- Release water SLOWLY - let it drip down the side
- Never shake or swirl vigorously
Let It Dissolve
Allow the peptide to dissolve naturally without agitation.
- Set vial on a flat surface
- Wait 5-10 minutes for full dissolution
- Gentle swirling is okay if needed
- Solution should be clear when ready
Store Properly
Proper storage extends the life of your reconstituted peptide.
- Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C)
- Keep away from light
- Use within 4-6 weeks typically
- Never freeze reconstituted peptides
Common Reconstitution Ratios
The amount of water you add determines the concentration. Here are common ratios:
| BAC Water | Concentration | Per Unit (0.01ml) |
|---|---|---|
| 1ml | 5mg/ml for 5mg vial | 50mcg per 0.01ml (1 unit) |
| 2ml | 2.5mg/ml for 5mg vial | 25mcg per 0.01ml (1 unit) |
| 1ml | 10mg/ml for 10mg vial | 100mcg per 0.01ml (1 unit) |
| 2ml | 5mg/ml for 10mg vial | 50mcg per 0.01ml (1 unit) |
Use our Dose Calculator to calculate exact dosing for your specific situation.
Important Warnings
- Never inject air into the peptide vial
- Avoid spraying water directly onto the powder
- Do not shake vigorously - this can denature the peptide
- Always use bacteriostatic water, not sterile water for multi-use
- Discard if solution appears cloudy or has particles
After Reconstitution
Temperature
Store at 36-46°F (2-8°C) in refrigerator
Duration
Use within 4-6 weeks of reconstitution
Protection
Keep away from light and never freeze