Reconstitution Basics

Step-by-step guide to safely reconstituting lyophilized peptides.

What is Reconstitution?

Lyophilization (freeze-drying) is the standard preservation method for peptides. Before use, lyophilized peptides must be reconstituted — dissolved in a sterile liquid — before use. This guide covers the process safely.

Materials Needed

Lyophilized peptide vial

Bacteriostatic water (BAC water) — preferred for multi-use vials

Sterile water for injection — for single-use

Insulin syringes (typically 1mL/100 unit)

Alcohol swabs

Clean workspace

Why Bacteriostatic Water?

Bacteriostatic water contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol, which inhibits bacterial growth. This makes it safe to use over multiple weeks, unlike sterile water which should be used immediately or discarded within 24 hours.

Step-by-Step Process

1. **Clean your workspace** with an alcohol swab and let it dry

2. **Wipe the rubber septum** of both the peptide vial and BAC water vial with alcohol swabs

3. **Draw your BAC water** into the syringe (amount depends on desired concentration — see below)

4. **Inject slowly** — insert the needle at an angle and let the BAC water run down the side of the vial, not directly onto the peptide powder

5. **Do not shake** — gently swirl or roll the vial until the peptide dissolves completely

6. **Label your vial** with the date, concentration, and peptide name

Dosing Calculation Example

If you have 5mg of peptide and add 2mL of BAC water:

Concentration = 5mg divided by 2mL = 2.5mg/mL

To draw 250mcg (0.25mg): 0.25mg divided by 2.5mg/mL = 0.1mL = 10 units on an insulin syringe

Storage Guidelines

Store reconstituted peptides in the refrigerator (2-8 degrees C)

Protect from light

Most peptides remain stable for 4-6 weeks when refrigerated

Keep lyophilized peptides frozen until ready to reconstitute

Important Notes

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide compound.