Proper Storage and Handling of Peptides

Proper storage and handling of lyophilized peptides (freeze-dried peptides) is critical to maintain their stability, purity, and potency.

🧊 1. Storage (Before Reconstitution)

Lyophilized (dry powder) peptides are relatively stable but temperature, moisture, and light are their main enemies.

Best practices:

Temperature:

Short-term (under 2 weeks): Store at 4°C (refrigerator).

Long-term (over 2 weeks): Store at –20°C or below (freezer).


Moisture: Keep the vial tightly sealed and avoid opening frequently. Peptides can absorb water from the air.

Light: Store in a dark place or use amber vials to protect from UV light.

Avoid freeze–thaw cycles: Repeatedly freezing and thawing can degrade the peptide.


Pro tip: If you have multiple vials or large amounts, aliquot (divide) into smaller sealed containers to minimize exposure.


💧 2. Reconstitution (Mixing with Bacteriostatic or Sterile Water)

Once the peptide is reconstituted, it becomes more delicate.

Steps:

1. Use bacteriostatic water for longer shelf life (up to 28 days in the fridge).

Use sterile water for injection if immediate use is planned (but it won’t last as long).



2. Reconstitute gently — don’t shake vigorously. Tilt the vial and let the water run down the side to avoid foaming or denaturing.


3. Allow the peptide to fully dissolve naturally.


🧬 3. Storage (After Reconstitution)

Once mixed, peptides are much more prone to degradation.

Recommended storage:

Temperature:

Keep at 2–8°C (refrigerated) at all times.

For long-term (over 1–2 months), you can freeze aliquots to avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles.


Avoid light exposure

⚠️ 4. Handling Tips

Always use sterile technique when handling and reconstituting.

Label vials with reconstitution date and concentration.

Do not touch the inside of the vial or rubber stopper.

Dispose of expired or contaminated peptides properly.