Approved

GHK Peptide: Uses, Research Status, and Clinical Trials

Drafted by an automated content engine from FDA, PubChem, ClinicalTrials.gov, NIH DSLD, and Open Beauty Facts data.

Molecular formula	C14H24N6O4
Molecular weight	340.38 g/mol
Registered trials	5
PubChem CID	73587

Many people encounter GHK in the context of skin care or wound healing research and want to know what it actually is. This overview summarizes what is publicly registered about the compound, without describing dosing or protocols.

What GHK is

GHK is a small tripeptide with the molecular formula C14H24N6O4 and a molecular weight of about 340.38. Its structure includes a histidine ring and a chain ending in a free amine, giving it the copper-binding character it is known for in research contexts. The compound is catalogued under PubChem CID 73587.

Trial footprint

Five clinical trials referencing GHK are registered. One is a Phase 2 study of a topical GHK-copper gel for acute skin wound healing that is currently recruiting. Another registered trial, listed as not applicable phase, involves GHK in the context of gynaecological laparoscopic surgery and has an unknown status. A separate cluster-randomized trial in the sample, despite sharing similar naming, addresses a multi-component health intervention rather than the peptide itself and has been completed.

FAQ

What is GHK?

GHK is a small tripeptide made up of three amino acids, with a molecular formula of C14H24N6O4. It is known for its ability to bind copper, which is why it is often studied in a copper-bound form. Researchers have registered it under PubChem CID 73587.

Is GHK FDA approved?

The available data does not indicate an FDA-approved label, brand name, or approved indication for GHK. Publicly registered trials are the main source of information on how it is being studied.

What clinical trials involve GHK?

Five clinical trials are registered that reference GHK. Examples include a Phase 2 recruiting study of a topical GHK-copper gel for acute skin wound healing and a laparoscopic surgery study with an unknown status.

Does GHK have known side effects reported to FAERS?

No FAERS adverse event reports were available in the data reviewed for GHK. This does not confirm an absence of side effects, only that none were captured in the dataset checked.

What does the GHK-Cu gel trial study?

One registered trial examines a topical GHK-copper gel specifically for acute skin wound healing. It is listed as Phase 2 and is currently recruiting participants.

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Sources: PubChem ClinicalTrials.gov

Updated 2026-08-10