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GHK-Cu: Uses, Research Status, and Clinical Trial Data

Molecular formulaC14H21CuN6O4-
Molecular weight400.9 g/mol
Registered trials4
PubChem CID139035031

What GHK-Cu is

GHK-Cu is a small peptide that binds copper, with the molecular formula C14H21CuN6O4 and a molecular weight of about 400.9. It is registered in PubChem (CID 139035031) as a defined chemical entity. No FDA label data was available for this compound at the time of review, so approved indications, mechanism language, and brand names cannot be summarized here.

What the evidence shows

There are 4 registered clinical trials involving GHK-Cu. One early-phase study is examining systemic and topical geroprotective effects using aging clock assessments and is currently enrolling by invitation. A separate two-part study, not yet recruiting, is designed to look at circulating GHK and GHK-Cu levels in healthy adults following use of a topical patch. A completed phase 4 trial assessed facial skin quality, hydration, and skin barrier outcomes across a series of hydrafacial treatments in adults of varying skin types.

Data gaps to note

No adverse event report data was available for GHK-Cu in the sources reviewed, so a reported side effects summary cannot be provided. Likewise, without label data, this monograph cannot describe an approved mechanism of action, approved indications, or boxed warning status.

FAQ

What is GHK-Cu?
GHK-Cu is a copper-binding peptide with the molecular formula C14H21CuN6O4 and a molecular weight of about 400.9. It is cataloged in PubChem under CID 139035031. No FDA label information was available to describe an approved use or mechanism.
Is GHK-Cu FDA approved?
No FDA label data was found for GHK-Cu in the records reviewed. Without label information, approved indications, brand names, and prescribing details cannot be confirmed here.
How many clinical trials have studied GHK-Cu?
There are 4 registered clinical trials involving GHK-Cu. These include studies on aging-related skin assessments, circulating peptide levels after topical patch use, and facial skin quality outcomes.
What have GHK-Cu trials looked at so far?
Sampled trials cover topics such as systemic and topical geroprotective effects measured by aging clocks, circulating levels of GHK and GHK-Cu after patch application, and skin hydration and barrier quality after hydrafacial treatments. One of these trials, a phase 4 study on facial skin quality, has been completed, while two others are enrolling by invitation or not yet recruiting.
Are there known side effects of GHK-Cu?
No adverse event report data was available for GHK-Cu, so a side effect summary cannot be provided from the sources reviewed.
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Sources: PubChem ClinicalTrials.gov

Updated 2026-11-07