Peptide Reconstitution Calculator: Complete Guide to Preparation
A practical guide with formulas and tables for peptide reconstitution. Calculate bacteriostatic water volumes, concentration per unit, and dosing accuracy for research applications.
Introduction
Proper peptide reconstitution is critical for research accuracy. This guide provides formulas, reference tables, and practical tips for preparing peptide solutions with precise concentrations.
Key Terms
- Reconstitution: Dissolving lyophilized peptide powder in a sterile solvent
- Bacteriostatic Water (BAC water): Sterile water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol as an antimicrobial preservative
- Concentration: Amount of peptide per unit volume (typically mcg/mL or mg/mL)
- Lyophilized: Freeze-dried powder form
The Reconstitution Formula
The fundamental formula for calculating reconstitution concentration is:
Concentration = Peptide Mass / Solvent Volume
For example, reconstituting 5mg of peptide in 2mL of BAC water:
- Concentration = 5mg / 2mL = 2.5 mg/mL
- Concentration = 2500 mcg/mL
Quick Reference Table
2mg Vial Reconstitution
| BAC Water (mL) | Concentration (mcg/mL) | 100mcg = ? units | 250mcg = ? units |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 mL | 2000 mcg/mL | 5 units (0.05 mL) | 12.5 units (0.125 mL) |
| 2.0 mL | 1000 mcg/mL | 10 units (0.10 mL) | 25 units (0.25 mL) |
| 3.0 mL | 667 mcg/mL | 15 units (0.15 mL) | 37.5 units (0.375 mL) |
5mg Vial Reconstitution
| BAC Water (mL) | Concentration (mcg/mL) | 100mcg = ? units | 500mcg = ? units |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 mL | 5000 mcg/mL | 2 units (0.02 mL) | 10 units (0.10 mL) |
| 2.0 mL | 2500 mcg/mL | 4 units (0.04 mL) | 20 units (0.20 mL) |
| 3.0 mL | 1667 mcg/mL | 6 units (0.06 mL) | 30 units (0.30 mL) |
10mg Vial Reconstitution
| BAC Water (mL) | Concentration (mcg/mL) | 250mcg = ? units | 500mcg = ? units |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 mL | 10000 mcg/mL | 2.5 units | 5 units |
| 2.0 mL | 5000 mcg/mL | 5 units | 10 units |
| 3.0 mL | 3333 mcg/mL | 7.5 units | 15 units |
Step-by-Step Reconstitution Protocol
Materials Needed
- Lyophilized peptide vial
- Bacteriostatic water (0.9% benzyl alcohol)
- Insulin syringe (1mL, typically with 100-unit markings)
- Alcohol swabs
Procedure
- Calculate the required BAC water volume using the tables above
- Swab the rubber stopper of the peptide vial with an alcohol pad
- Withdraw the calculated volume of BAC water into the syringe
- Insert the needle through the rubber stopper at an angle
- Slowly dispense the BAC water down the side of the vial (do not blast the powder directly)
- Gently swirl the vial (do not shake vigorously)
- Wait 2-3 minutes for complete dissolution
- Store reconstituted peptide at 2-8C (refrigerator)
Important Notes
- Never shake the vial vigorously - this can denature the peptide
- Always dispense liquid slowly down the glass wall
- Use a new syringe for each draw to maintain sterility
- Label the vial with the reconstitution date and concentration
Peptide Stability After Reconstitution
| Peptide | Refrigerated (2-8C) | Frozen (-20C) |
|---|---|---|
| BPC-157 | 30 days | 90 days |
| TB-500 | 30 days | 90 days |
| Semax | 30 days | 60 days |
| Selank | 30 days | 60 days |
| Ipamorelin | 30 days | 90 days |
| CJC-1295 | 30 days | 90 days |
| GHK-Cu | 14 days | 60 days |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using the Wrong Solvent
- Always use bacteriostatic water (contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol)
- Do NOT use sterile water (lacks preservative, shorter shelf life)
- Do NOT use saline (can cause precipitation with some peptides)
2. Shaking the Vial
- Shaking denatures peptide bonds and can destroy bioactivity
- Always swirl gently or let dissolve passively
3. Incorrect Concentration Calculations
- Double-check your math using the tables above
- Remember: 1 mg = 1000 mcg
- On a 100-unit insulin syringe: 100 units = 1 mL
Reconstitution Calculator Formula
For custom calculations:
Desired dose (mcg) / Concentration (mcg/mL) = Volume (mL)
Volume (mL) x 100 = Units on insulin syringe
Example:
Peptide: 5mg vial
BAC water added: 2mL
Concentration: 5000 mcg/mL
Desired dose: 250mcg
250 / 5000 = 0.05 mL = 5 units on the syringe
Conclusion
Accurate peptide reconstitution is essential for research reproducibility. By following the formulas and tables in this guide, you can ensure precise concentrations and maintain peptide stability.
All products sold by Kingston Peptides are intended exclusively for in vitro research and analytical purposes.