GHK-Cu

evidence score

peptide

Gray Market

196 studies

copper peptideGHK copperglycyl-histidyl-lysine copper+1 more

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper complex found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Plasma levels decline from ~200 ng/mL at age 20 to ~80 ng/mL by age 60. GHK-Cu activates genes involved in tissue remodeling, collagen synthesis, antioxidant defense, and anti-inflammatory signaling. Topical formulations are widely available OTC and well-established for skin aging and wound healing. Injectable use is experimental.

Evidence

Moderate evidence

Safety

Unknown safety profile

Clinical Status

Preclinical

Research Sync

Feb 19, 2026

Dosing

Typical

2 mg

1 mgRange5 mg

FrequencyDaily subcutaneous (injectable); 2x/day topical

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Pharmacology

Half-lifeMinutes in plasma; tissue effects are prolonged

OnsetTopical: 4–8 weeks; Injectable: 1–2 weeks

DurationCumulative with chronic use

Routes

topical

subcutaneous

Evidence Score

Level B — Moderate

196 studies indexed

Scoring Factors

Volume(40%)~46/100

Quality(30%)~40/100

Sample Size(10%)~100/100

Consistency(10%)~100/100

Replication(5%)~100/100

Recency(5%)~100/100

Scores estimated from study counts. Exact breakdown computed after research sync.

Evidence Levels

AScore ≥75 with at least 1 meta-analysis and 3+ RCTs

BScore ≥50 with at least 1 RCT or meta-analysis

CScore ≥25 — observational or animal evidence only

DScore <25 — very limited or preclinical data

Plain-English Snapshot

GHK-Cu is currently categorized as a peptide compound.

Evidence is moderate (65/100): promising signal from 196 indexed studies, but context and population still matter.

Safety scoring is incomplete. Start conservatively and monitor carefully.

Core mechanism

Activates collagen synthesis and wound healing genes; broad anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects via Nrf2 and NF-κB pathways

Practical Context

Strongest current signals

Level C: This review integrates current mechanistic insights with orthopaedic relevance, emphasizing safety, efficacy, and future directions for responsible integration into musculoskeletal care.
Level C: While peptide therapy may possess significant therapeutic and regenerative potential, it is critical that orthopaedic and sports medicine providers understand the current lack of evidence to support the clinical use of these peptides.
Level C: Smart Healing for Wound Repair: Emerging Multifunctional Strategies in Personalized Regenerative Medicine and Their Relevance to Orthopedics.