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FDA Category 2 · restricted from compounding

This compound is on the FDA’s interim Section 503A Category 2 bulks list and cannot be legally compounded by US pharmacies. An HHS announcement in February 2026 signaled intent to restore several peptides to Category 1, but no Federal Register action has been published. Check the FDA PCAC schedule for updates.

Read the full regulatory context
ExperimentalSkin & HairOralDailyPartial data

GHK-Cu (Capsules)

Oral capsule form of GHK-Cu marketed for systemic skin and connective tissue support.

§ 01   Overview

Overview

Oral capsule form of GHK-Cu marketed for systemic skin and connective tissue support.

Oral bioavailability questionable; no trial data.

§ 02   Mechanism

Mechanism of action

Oral GHK-Cu bioavailability is uncertain due to GI peptidase activity. Any systemic effects would reflect the broader gene-expression modulating and collagen-stimulating effects of the GHK-Cu complex.

  • 01Convenience vs. injectable or topical
  • 02Systemic copper peptide exposure (claimed)

§ 03   Dosing

Dosing protocol

Standard Protocol

Dose Range
Manufacturer-specified
Route
Oral
Frequency
Daily

§ 04   Evidence

Evidence & research

Experimental

Oral bioavailability questionable; no trial data.

FDA Status

Cosmetic ingredient; oral capsule form not FDA-approved.

§ 07   Sourcing

Sourcing & supply

Regulatory status

Restricted from compounding

Placed on the FDA's 503A Category 2 list and cannot be lawfully compounded in the US. No brand pharmacy alternative exists. US buyers encounter only research-use-only (RUO) channels, which the FDA's Intended Use Doctrine treats as unapproved drug sales.

No suppliers in our directory currently stock this compound. For investigational or research-only compounds, legitimate channels may not exist outside clinical trials.

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§ 09   Safety

Safety & side effects

Side effects

  • 01Copper accumulation if taken long-term at high doses

Contraindications

None specified.

§ 10   Questions

GHK-Cu (Capsules) FAQ

What is GHK-Cu (Capsules)?
Oral capsule form of GHK-Cu marketed for systemic skin and connective tissue support. Oral GHK-Cu bioavailability is uncertain due to GI peptidase activity. Any systemic effects would reflect the broader gene-expression modulating and collagen-stimulating effects of the GHK-Cu complex.
What is GHK-Cu (Capsules) used for?
Reported uses include convenience vs. injectable or topical and systemic copper peptide exposure (claimed). Evidence strength is rated Experimental — see the evidence section for detail.
How is GHK-Cu (Capsules) dosed?
Commonly referenced dosing is Manufacturer-specified, typically daily, administered Oral. This is educational reference only; consult a licensed clinician before use.
What are the side effects of GHK-Cu (Capsules)?
Commonly reported side effects include copper accumulation if taken long-term at high doses. This list is not exhaustive.
Is GHK-Cu (Capsules) legal?
Placed on the FDA's 503A Category 2 list and cannot be lawfully compounded in the US. No brand pharmacy alternative exists. US buyers encounter only research-use-only (RUO) channels, which the FDA's Intended Use Doctrine treats as unapproved drug sales. FDA status: Cosmetic ingredient; oral capsule form not FDA-approved..

This site is for educational and research purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any peptide or supplement.