Updated October 29, 2026.

Not part of the Oct 28 HHS policy. GHK-Cu is not an FDA-approved drug.

What is GHK-Cu?

GHK-Cu is a small peptide made of three amino acids (glycine, histidine and lysine) bound to copper.

Your body makes GHK naturally. It's found in blood, saliva and urine, and levels tend to drop with age.

It's best known as an ingredient in skin care products, and it's also prescribed in other forms.

What the research is looking at

GHK-Cu is being studied for its role in:

  • Collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep skin firm
  • Skin quality, including fine lines and texture
  • Hair and the hair follicle
  • Skin repair after minor damage

Most of the research so far has been in the lab, in animals and in small cosmetic studies of creams and serums.

Human data on GHK-Cu given by injection is limited.

Who it may be for

Adults focused on skin health, hair and healthy aging often ask about GHK-Cu.

Results vary from person to person, and our provider will talk with you about realistic expectations.

Regulatory status

GHK-Cu is not an FDA-approved drug. It is not part of the October 28, 2026 HHS peptide policy.

FDA handles GHK-Cu differently depending on how it's used. Non-injectable GHK-Cu is on FDA's list of compounding ingredients under evaluation.

Injectable GHK-Cu was on FDA's list of ingredients that may raise significant safety risks, mainly because of limited human data. That nomination was later withdrawn.

FDA has said it plans to bring GHK-Cu to its Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee before the end of February 2027.

Availability depends on our compounding pharmacy partner and on our provider's judgment, and it may change as FDA rules develop.

Read the full FDA update

Safety and side effects

Side effects reported with GHK-Cu can include:

  • Redness, itching or irritation where it's applied or given
  • Temporary skin darkening or bruising at the site
  • Headache or tiredness

GHK-Cu may not be right for you if:

  • You're pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive.
  • You're under 18.
  • You have active cancer or a history of cancer.
  • You have Wilson's disease or another copper-related condition.
  • You're allergic to copper.

Our provider will review your health history before prescribing.

Good to know

  • GHK-Cu is also part of our Glow Stack and Klow Stack. Because those are blends, they are not part of the Oct 28 HHS policy, which covers single-peptide products only.

How it works at Optimize Hormone

Optimize Hormone offers these prescription peptides from an FDA-inspected 503(a) pharmacy in the US, with full testing reports, delivered directly to your home.

Our approach to peptide therapy is personalized and provider-guided, designed to support recovery, performance, longevity and overall wellness.

  • Bloodwork membership not required for peptides.
  • Complete your online intake, or book a free consultation if you'd like to talk it through first.
  • Our provider reviews your health history and goals and determines whether GHK-Cu is appropriate for you.
  • If prescribed, your medication ships to your door with all necessary supplies, plus personalized dosing and instructions from your licensed provider.

How it's delivered

Your prescription arrives pre-mixed and ready to use, with all the supplies you need.

Our provider will walk you through how and when to use it.

Monthly membership: $150/month

Book your free consultation

Start your intake

Common questions

Is this the same as a copper peptide serum?

It's the same peptide, but a prescription product is different from an over-the-counter cosmetic. Our provider will explain the form you're prescribed.

When might I notice a difference?

Skin and hair change slowly, so any changes usually take weeks to months. Our provider will set realistic expectations with you.

Can I use it with my skin care routine?

Usually, yes. Tell our provider about any prescription skin products you use, such as retinoids.

Do I need bloodwork?

A bloodwork membership is not required for peptides. Our provider may recommend labs based on your health history.

How to get started

1. Complete the short online intake.

2. Or book a free consultation if you'd like to talk it through first.

3. Our provider reviews your answers and lets you know whether GHK-Cu is a fit for you.

More peptides

Educational information only, not medical advice. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved, which means FDA does not review their safety, effectiveness or quality before they are dispensed. Our provider determines whether any medication is appropriate for you. Regulatory information is current as of October 29, 2026 and may change. Prescriptions are filled by a state-licensed 503(a) compounding pharmacy in the US.