Reconstitution Basics
Complete step-by-step guide to reconstituting research peptides correctly — what you need, the step-by-step process, correct storage, troubleshooting, and the mistakes that cost researchers the most in wasted peptide.
What is peptide reconstitution?
Reconstitution converts lyophilized (freeze-dried) peptide powder into an injectable solution by dissolving it in bacteriostatic water. Peptides are shipped as powder because it's stable during transit and has a longer shelf life than any liquid solution.
What you need before you start
Pharmaceutical-grade bacteriostatic water with a COA confirming benzyl alcohol 0.72–1.08% and pH 4.0–7.0. U-100 insulin syringes (29–31 gauge), 70% isopropyl alcohol swabs, a sharps container, and a permanent marker for dating your vials.
Step-by-step reconstitution process
Prepare and clean your workspace. If refrigerated, bring the peptide vial to room temperature (10–15 minutes). Wipe both stoppers with a fresh alcohol swab and let dry. Draw your calculated BAC water volume into a syringe. Inject slowly down the inside wall of the vial — never directly onto the powder. Swirl gently until fully dissolved — do not shake. Label the vial with today's date. Refrigerate immediately.
Storage guidelines
Reconstituted peptide: refrigerate at 2–8°C, stable 28 days for most compounds. Bacteriostatic water: store in a cool, dark space — do not refrigerate — effective up to 90 days after opening. Unreconstituted powder: refrigerate at 2–8°C if storing longer than 12 months; a cool, dark space is acceptable for shorter timelines.
Common mistakes
Squirting BAC water directly onto the powder causes foaming and stresses peptide bonds. Shaking instead of swirling introduces air and can denature the compound. Not labeling the vial means you lose track of the use window. Using the wrong solvent — some compounds like AOD-9604 require acetic acid, not BAC water.