GHK-Cu: How It Works, What It's Studied For & Safety
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide present in human plasma, studied for collagen signaling, wound healing, and skin-quality applications. Clinicians consider it for skin tone, fine-line, and post-procedure recovery research. It is not FDA-approved as a finished drug product and is dispensed by Wells Pharmacy Network only after a licensed clinician evaluates intake, history, and labs.
Also known as: Copper Tripeptide-1, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper(II)
How does GHK-Cu work?
GHK is a copper-affinity tripeptide that levels in plasma decline with age. The GHK-Cu complex is studied for upregulation of metalloproteinases involved in skin remodeling, modulation of antioxidant gene expression, and stimulation of dermal fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin.
What is GHK-Cu studied for?
- Skin tone, fine-line, and post-procedure recovery research
- Hair-follicle support in scalp-applied protocols
- Wound-healing support in clinical research
How is GHK-Cu taken?
Most commonly applied as a topical cream or serum at clinician-directed cadence. Some compounded protocols use a subcutaneous injectable preparation.
Is GHK-Cu FDA-approved? Is it safe?
Not FDA-approved for the prevention, treatment, or cure of any condition. Used inside research-informed, clinician-directed protocols only. Topical preparations are well-tolerated in published research; copper sensitivity is rare but possible. Compounded prescription-only preparations are dispensed by Wells Pharmacy Network. Eligibility is decided by a licensed clinician based on intake and labs, not by checkout. Compounded products on this site are not FDA-approved and are not generic equivalents of any branded medication.
In the Regen Therapy catalog
The protocols below are dispensed by Wells Pharmacy Network and contain GHK-Cu. Each one is prescribed only after a clinician evaluation.
What does the research say about GHK-Cu?
Multiple peer-reviewed papers describe GHK-Cu's effects on dermal fibroblasts and gene expression in skin. No FDA-approved drug status.
Citations & further reading
Considering GHK-Cu as part of a protocol?
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