Peptide Storage & Handling Guide

Lyophilized (freeze-dried) peptides are relatively stable when stored correctly. Proper storage before reconstitution preserves potency and extends shelf life.

Storage Requirements

• Refrigerate at 2-8°C (36-46°F) for most peptides — this is the standard recommendation for long-term storage
• Short-term room temperature is acceptable during shipping or brief handling, but return to refrigeration as soon as possible
• Protect from light — store in original packaging or use amber vials to prevent photodegradation
• Shelf life is typically months to years when stored properly, depending on the specific peptide
• Check expiration dates and follow manufacturer recommendations for each specific peptide product

Reconstitution is the process of dissolving lyophilized peptide powder into a solution for injection. Following proper technique preserves the peptide's molecular structure and ensures accurate dosing.

Choosing a Diluent

Reconstitution Steps

1. 1
   Allow the vial to warm briefly

   Remove the peptide vial from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for a few minutes. This reduces thermal shock.

2. 2
   Clean vial tops

   Wipe the rubber stoppers of both the peptide vial and BAC water vial with alcohol swabs. Allow to dry completely.

3. 3
   Draw the diluent

   Using a sterile syringe, draw your predetermined volume of bacteriostatic water (typically 1-2 mL, as prescribed).

4. 4
   Add water against the vial wall

   Insert the needle into the peptide vial and direct the stream of water against the inner glass wall — NOT directly onto the lyophilized powder. This prevents damaging the peptide structure.

5. 5
   Swirl gently to dissolve

   Roll the vial gently between your palms. NEVER shake the vial — shaking can denature the peptide and destroy its structure. Allow 5-10 minutes for complete dissolution.

Once reconstituted, peptides are less stable than in their lyophilized form. Proper storage after reconstitution is critical for maintaining potency and safety.

Key Storage Rules

• Always refrigerate at 2-8°C (36-46°F) immediately after reconstitution
• 28-day maximum stability for most peptides reconstituted with bacteriostatic water
• 24-hour maximum if reconstituted with sterile water (no preservative)
• NEVER freeze reconstituted peptides — ice crystal formation damages the peptide structure irreversibly
• Keep vials upright and avoid excessive agitation during storage
• Label with reconstitution date so you can track the 28-day window

Storage Best Practices

• Store in the back of the refrigerator, away from the freezer compartment
• Keep away from door shelves where temperature fluctuates
• Inspect the solution for clarity before each use
• Discard reconstituted peptides after 28 days, even if solution appears clear
• Protect from light — keep in original vial or wrap in aluminum foil

Traveling with peptides requires planning to maintain proper temperature control and comply with transportation regulations. With the right preparation, you can safely travel with your peptide therapy.

Packing & Temperature Control

• Use an insulated cooling bag with gel ice packs to maintain 2-8°C during transit
• Pack in carry-on luggage — the cabin is temperature-controlled while the cargo hold may reach extreme temperatures
• Avoid direct contact between ice packs and vials — wrap vials in a cloth or place in a separate pouch to prevent accidental freezing
• Bring extra supplies for extended trips: additional syringes, alcohol swabs, and BAC water if needed

TSA & Airline Guidelines

International Travel

• Research destination country regulations regarding importing prescription medications
• Carry medications in original labeled packaging when possible
• Bring a provider letter translated into the local language for international destinations

Degraded peptides may be ineffective or potentially harmful. Inspect your peptide solution before every use and discard immediately if any of these signs are present.

Prevention Tips

• Always check solution clarity before drawing a dose
• Maintain consistent refrigeration — avoid temperature excursions
• Use bacteriostatic water to extend reconstituted stability
• Respect the 28-day expiration window after reconstitution
• Use proper aseptic technique when accessing the vial to prevent contamination

Safe disposal of used syringes, needles, and expired peptides protects you, your household, and waste management workers from needlestick injuries and exposure to pharmaceutical waste.

Sharps Disposal

• Use an FDA-cleared sharps container — place all used syringes and needles directly into a puncture-resistant sharps container immediately after use
• Never recap needles — recapping increases the risk of accidental needlestick injury
• Never place sharps in regular trash or recycling bins
• Seal the container when it is three-quarters full and follow local disposal guidelines

Medication Disposal

• Check for take-back programs — many pharmacies and local health departments accept expired or unused medications
• Do not flush medications unless specifically instructed to do so by the product labeling
• Contact local waste management for information on sharps container disposal locations and household hazardous waste collection events