A precision reference compiling published injection parameters across research-grade peptide compounds—organized by compound class, formatted for clarity, and designed to integrate directly with the Bune: Peptide Tracker.
A Researcher’s Field Guide to Injection Parameters
The following reference consolidates injection dosing parameters drawn from peer-reviewed clinical literature, published preclinical study data, and established research protocols for thirteen peptide and small-molecule compounds. Each compound entry presents route of administration, established dose ranges, frequency, titration guidance where applicable, and storage specifications. This page is intended exclusively as an educational research reference. All data should be interpreted within an appropriate scientific and regulatory context. Nothing contained herein constitutes medical advice, clinical guidance, or a recommendation for human use. Compounds vary significantly in their regulatory status, evidence base, and risk profiles—researchers are responsible for compliance with applicable institutional and jurisdictional frameworks.
DISCLAIMER — This content is for educational and informational purposes only. These compounds are not approved for human consumption unless explicitly noted. Researchers assume full responsibility for compliance with applicable laws and institutional protocols.
GLP-1, GIP & Metabolic Receptor Agonists
This category encompasses approved and investigational compounds that modulate incretin hormone pathways. Semaglutide and tirzepatide hold FDA approval; retatrutide remains investigational. All three are administered via once-weekly subcutaneous injection and follow carefully titrated escalation schedules designed to balance metabolic efficacy with gastrointestinal tolerability.
Semaglutide
GLP-1 Receptor Agonist · Ozempic / Wegovy
A long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics endogenous GLP-1 hormone signaling, influencing appetite regulation and glucose metabolism. Administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection following a titration schedule to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
| Route | SubQ Injection |
| Frequency | Once weekly, same day |
| Start dose | 0.25 mg/week (Weeks 1–4) |
| Titration | 0.5 mg → 1.0 mg → 1.7 mg → 2.4 mg |
| Increment | Increase every 4 weeks as tolerated |
| Max dose | 2.4 mg/week |
| Inject site | Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm |
| Cycle | Long-term / ongoing per protocol |
| Storage | 2–8 °C refrigerated; do not freeze |
Tirzepatide
Dual GIP/GLP-1 Agonist · Mounjaro / Zepbound
A first-in-class dual agonist targeting both GIP and GLP-1 receptors simultaneously. Phase 3 SURMOUNT-1 data demonstrated up to 22.5% average body weight reduction at 15 mg over 72 weeks, establishing it as the most efficacious approved agent in its class.
| Route | SubQ Injection |
| Frequency | Once weekly, consistent day |
| Start dose | 2.5 mg/week (Weeks 1–4) |
| Titration | 2.5 → 5 → 7.5 → 10 → 12.5 → 15 mg |
| Increment | +2.5 mg every 4 weeks minimum |
| Max dose | 15 mg/week |
| Inject site | Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm |
| Missed dose | Give within 96 hours; otherwise skip |
| Storage | 2–8 °C; up to 30 °C for 21 days |
Retatrutide
Triple GLP-1 / GIP / Glucagon Agonist · LY3437943
A triple-receptor agonist targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors simultaneously—the most comprehensive incretin mechanism in development. Phase 2 NEJM data showed up to 24.2% average body weight reduction at 12 mg over 48 weeks. Not yet FDA approved. FDA approval anticipated 2027.
| Route | SubQ Injection |
| Frequency | Once weekly |
| Start dose | 1–2 mg/week |
| Titration | Titrate upward every 4 weeks |
| Target dose | 8–12 mg/week |
| Max studied | 12 mg/week (Phase 2) |
| Inject site | Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm |
| Cycle | 48-week Phase 2 protocol |
| Storage | 2–8 °C refrigerated |
Growth Hormone Axis Peptides
Compounds in this category modulate growth hormone release via the GHRH or ghrelin receptor pathways. CJC-1295 (no DAC) and Tesamorelin both act as GHRH analogs, stimulating pulsatile GH release from the pituitary. MOTS-c, while mitochondrial in origin, exerts profound effects on metabolic and hormonal regulation and is included here for its intersection with systemic homeostasis research.
CJC-1295 No DAC
Modified GRF (1–29) · GHRH Analog · Short-Acting
A 30-amino acid synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) without the Drug Affinity Complex. Its short half-life (~30 min) enables precise, pulsatile GH stimulation mimicking natural physiological rhythms. Commonly paired with Ipamorelin for synergistic GH secretion.
| Route | SubQ Injection |
| Frequency | Once daily (before bed or fasted AM) |
| Start dose | 100 mcg/day |
| Target dose | 200–300 mcg/day |
| Titration | +50 mcg every 1–2 weeks |
| Cycle | 8–12 weeks; optional to 16 weeks |
| Schedule | 5 days on / 2 days off (common) |
| Fasting | Inject fasted; avoid eating 30–60 min post |
| Storage | Lyophilized −20 °C; reconstituted 2–8 °C |
Tesamorelin
GHRH Analog · Egrifta / Egrifta WR
An FDA-approved 44-amino acid synthetic GHRH analog with a trans-3-hexenoic acid modification that improves stability. Approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy; actively researched for visceral fat reduction and metabolic regulation via sustained GH/IGF-1 signaling.
| Route | SubQ Injection |
| Frequency | Once daily |
| Titration dose | 1 mg/day (Week 1 tolerance check) |
| Standard dose | 2 mg/day |
| Egrifta WR | 1.28 mg/day (equivalent efficacy) |
| Timing | Evening preferred (natural GH rhythm) |
| Inject site | Lower abdomen (rotate) |
| Cycle | 12–26 weeks; up to 52 weeks monitored |
| Storage | 2–8 °C; protect from light |
Tissue Repair & Systemic Recovery
BPC-157 and TB-500 represent the most extensively documented peptide pairing in preclinical regenerative research. BPC-157 acts locally at injury sites while TB-500 exerts systemic repair signaling via thymosin beta-4 mechanisms. GHK-Cu, the copper-binding tripeptide, complements both through collagen synthesis facilitation and anti-inflammatory activity.
BPC-157
Body Protection Compound-157 · Pentadecapeptide
A synthetic 15-amino acid sequence derived from a natural gastric protein. One of the most extensively studied regenerative peptides in preclinical models, with demonstrated effects on angiogenesis, tendon and ligament repair, gut integrity modulation, and anti-inflammatory activity. Not FDA approved.
| Route | SubQ Injection |
| Frequency | Once or twice daily |
| Start dose | 250 mcg/day |
| Target dose | 250–500 mcg/day |
| Advanced | Up to 1,000 mcg/day (monitored) |
| Inject site | Abdomen or proximal to target tissue |
| Cycle | 4–6 weeks; up to 8 weeks severe injury |
| Storage | Lyophilized −20 °C; reconstituted 2–8 °C |
TB-500
Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment · Synthetic Tβ4
The active synthetic fragment of Thymosin Beta-4, a 43-amino acid protein present in nearly every tissue. TB-500 acts systemically, promoting angiogenesis, cellular migration, and repair across musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and connective tissues. Note: banned by WADA for competitive athletics.
| Route | SubQ Injection |
| Frequency | 2× per week |
| Loading phase | 2.5 mg × 2/week (Weeks 1–4) |
| Maintenance | 2.5 mg × 1/week |
| Range | 2.5–5 mg per injection |
| Cycle | 4–6 weeks loading; ongoing maintenance |
| Storage | Lyophilized −20 °C; reconstituted 2–8 °C |
GHK-Cu
Copper Peptide · Glycyl-Histidyl-Lysine-Copper
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide involved in collagen synthesis, anti-inflammatory signaling, antioxidant activity, and tissue remodeling. Most commonly utilized topically; subcutaneous injection protocols exist for localized regenerative research applications such as scalp, facial, and joint-site delivery.
| Route | SubQ Injection |
| Frequency | 3–5× per week |
| SubQ dose | 2–3 mg per injection |
| Inject site | Localized to target area (face, scalp, joint) |
| Topical dose | Applied post-microneedling for enhanced uptake |
| Cycle | 8–12 weeks |
| Note | SubQ may cause transient blue-green discoloration from copper |
| Storage | Lyophilized −20 °C; reconstituted 2–8 °C |
Cognitive & Neuroprotective Research
Semax, Selank, and Cerebrolysin form a well-documented nootropic triad studied extensively in Eastern European clinical settings. Semax modulates BDNF and dopaminergic signaling; Selank exerts anxiolytic and GABAergic effects; Cerebrolysin provides neurotrophic peptide fragments derived from porcine brain preparation. Their complementary mechanisms have generated active research into stacking protocols for cognitive optimization.
Semax
ACTH(4–10) Heptapeptide Analog
A synthetic heptapeptide analog of ACTH(4–10) developed in Russia in the 1980s. Registered in Russia and CIS countries for stroke recovery, traumatic brain injury, and optic neuropathy. Modulates BDNF expression, dopaminergic signaling, and neuroinflammatory pathways. Primary route is intranasal; subcutaneous injection is an emerging alternative used in research contexts.
| Route | SubQ Injection |
| Frequency | Once daily |
| SubQ dose | 300–800 mcg/day |
| Injection Site | Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm |
| Start dose | 300 mcg; titrate gradually |
| Cycle | 5-14 days |
| Timing | Morning / early afternoon; avoid evening |
| Storage | Lyophilized −20 °C; reconstituted 2–8 °C, 30 days |
Selank
Tuftsin Analog · Heptapeptide Anxiolytic
A synthetic heptapeptide derived from the immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin. Registered in Russia as an anxiolytic agent without sedative or dependency profiles. Acts through GABAergic modulation, serotonin/norepinephrine balance, and IL-6-mediated immune regulation. Unlike benzodiazepines, it preserves and may enhance cognitive function during anxiolytic effect.
| Route | SubQ Injection |
| Frequency | Once daily |
| Injection Site | Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm |
| SubQ dose | 250–500 mcg/day |
| Cycle | 10–14 days; break 1–2 weeks; repeat |
| Timing | Flexible; no evening restriction |
| Storage | Lyophilized −20 °C; reconstituted 2–8 °C, 30 days |
Cerebrolysin
Porcine Brain-Derived Neuropeptide Preparation
A standardized preparation of low-molecular-weight porcine brain-derived bioactive peptide fragments that mimic endogenous neurotrophic factors. Approved in over 40 countries (primarily Eastern Europe and Asia) for stroke, TBI, and cognitive impairment. Administered via IM or IV injection; subcutaneous delivery is emerging for research use. Unlike synthetic peptides, dosing reflects solution volume.
| Route | SubQ Injection |
| SubQ research | 0.5–2 mL per injection |
| Concentration | Typical formulation: 215 mg/mL |
| Frequency | Daily for a cycle period |
| Cycle | 10–20 day intensive cycles; repeat with breaks |
| Storage | 2–8 °C; protect from light; do not freeze |
Mitochondrial & Metabolic Regulators
MOTS-c represents a novel class of mitochondria-derived peptides (MDPs) with emerging roles in systemic metabolic homeostasis, AMPK activation, and age-related decline research. SLU-PP-332, a pan-ERR agonist, occupies a similarly early preclinical stage—currently supported only by murine data but generating significant research interest for its exercise-mimetic mitochondrial mechanisms.
MOTS-c
Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide · 16-Amino Acid MDP
A 16-amino acid mitochondrial-derived peptide acting as a metabolic regulator via AMPK pathway activation. Preclinical studies demonstrate enhanced insulin sensitivity, fat oxidation, improved exercise capacity, and potential attenuation of age-related metabolic decline. No completed human clinical trials to date.
| Route | SubQ Injection |
| Frequency | Once daily |
| Start dose | 200 mcg/day (Weeks 1–2) |
| Titration | +200 mcg every 2 weeks |
| Target dose | 600–1,000 mcg/day |
| Max studied | 1,000 mcg (1.0 mg)/day |
| Cycle | 8–12 weeks; optional to 16 weeks |
| Reconstitution | 3.0 mL BW per 10 mg vial → 3.33 mg/mL |
| Storage | Lyophilized −20 °C; reconstituted 2–8 °C, use within 7 days |
SLU-PP-332
Pan-ERR Agonist · Exercise-Mimetic Compound
A potent, non-selective agonist of estrogen-related receptors (ERRα, ERRβ, ERRγ) that activates the aerobic exercise gene program and enhances mitochondrial biogenesis. All published evidence originates from murine models. No human clinical trials exist. The subcutaneous route is not formally validated; murine studies used intraperitoneal administration.
| Route | SubQ Injection |
| Starting Dose | Weeks 1–2: 1,250 mcg/day |
| Maintenance | Weeks 3–8: 2,500 mcg/day |
| Frequency | Twice daily |
| Cycle | 8–16 weeks |
| Storage | Lyophilized −20 °C; reconstituted 2–8 °C |
Precision Protocols
The research landscape surrounding injectable peptide compounds continues to evolve rapidly, with multiple compounds transitioning from preclinical data into Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical evaluation. This reference consolidates the current evidence base into a format designed for clarity, precision, and responsible use by qualified researchers. All dosing parameters should be interpreted alongside primary literature sources, institutional protocols, and the most current regulatory guidance applicable to each compound’s jurisdiction of use.
Frequently Asked Research Questions
Q: What does “subcutaneous injection” mean and how does it differ from intramuscular? Subcutaneous (SubQ) injection delivers a compound into the fatty tissue layer just beneath the skin, typically using a short insulin syringe inserted at a 45–90° angle. This route provides slower, more sustained absorption compared to intramuscular (IM) injection, which goes deeper into muscle tissue. Most research peptide protocols favour SubQ for its predictable absorption profile, ease of self-administration, and lower risk of discomfort. Some compounds like Cerebrolysin are also administered intravenously (IV), which delivers directly into the bloodstream for immediate bioavailability.
Q: What is a titration schedule and why is it important? A titration schedule is a structured plan to gradually increase the dose of a compound over time, starting below the target therapeutic range. This approach is critical for several reasons: it allows researchers to monitor individual tolerance and identify adverse responses at lower exposure levels before escalating; it minimises gastrointestinal side effects common to GLP-1-class compounds; and it reduces the risk of receptor desensitization. For growth hormone peptides and GLP-1 agonists in particular, clinical data consistently shows that gradual titration preserves both safety and long-term efficacy.
Q: How should research peptides be stored after reconstitution? Lyophilised (freeze-dried) peptide powder should generally be stored at −20 °C in dry, dark conditions until use. Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, most peptides should be refrigerated at 2–8 °C and used within 14–30 days depending on the compound. MOTS-c is notably less stable and should ideally be aliquoted and refrozen at −20 °C, with each aliquot used within 7 days after thawing. Reconstituted solutions should never be shaken—gentle swirling is the correct mixing technique. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles degrade peptide integrity and should be avoided.
Q: What is the difference between an approved compound and a research-only compound? FDA-approved compounds (semaglutide, tirzepatide, tesamorelin) have completed clinical trials demonstrating safety and efficacy for specific indications and are legally available by prescription. Research-only compounds (BPC-157, TB-500, GHK-Cu, MOTS-c, etc.) have not received regulatory approval for human use and are sold exclusively for laboratory and research purposes. Investigational compounds like retatrutide are in active clinical trials but not yet approved. Preclinical compounds such as SLU-PP-332 exist only in animal model data. Understanding these distinctions is fundamental to responsible research protocol design.
Q: How can the Peptide Tracker app assist with managing research protocols? The Peptide Tracker app allows researchers to log individual compound dosing schedules, record injection dates and sites, track titration progress against a pre-set protocol, and generate usage summaries over time. When linked to this dosing reference page, the app provides contextual access to the published dose parameters for each compound at the point of entry, reducing transcription error and supporting more consistent protocol adherence. The app serves as a practical companion tool for anyone managing multiple concurrent research compounds with different administration frequencies and titration curves.
Q: Can peptides be combined (“stacked”) in the same research protocol? Many peptide researchers utilize combinatorial protocols, and certain pairings have a documented rationale in the preclinical literature. BPC-157 + TB-500 is perhaps the most widely referenced combination for complementary local and systemic repair mechanisms. Semax + Selank is a well-documented nootropic pairing with complementary GABAergic and dopaminergic mechanisms. GHK-Cu + BPC-157 supports collagen synthesis alongside tissue repair. However, stacking introduces additive variable complexity—interactions, cumulative tolerability, and schedule management all require careful consideration. This reference page, in conjunction with the Peptide Tracker app, is designed to support organised multi-compound protocol management.
