Lyophilised peptides, often referred to as freeze-dried peptides, are a stable and convenient form of preserving the delicate molecules for extended storage. Lyophilisation involves the removal of water from the peptide, creating a powdered form that can be easily reconstituted for use. Peptides in a freeze-dried state will require reconstitution before they are ready to use; follow the guide below to learn more.
1. Materials Required:
- Lyophilised Peptide
- Bacteriostatic Water
- Insulin Syringe
- Alcohol Swabs
2. Preparation Environment:
- Ensure a clean and sterile workspace.
- Wash hands thoroughly.
- Sterilise vials, syringes, and other equipment using an alcohol swab.
3. Reconstitution Process:
a. Peptide Preparation:
– Retrieve the lyophilised peptide vial. Check the label for accurate identification.
– Check that the lyophilised powder is intact and free of visible contaminants.
– If peptides adhere to the vial walls, gently tap the vial to settle the powder at the bottom.
b. Bacteriostatic Water Addition:
– Sterilise the top of the peptide vial with an alcohol swab.
– Use a sterile syringe to draw an appropriate amount of bacteriostatic water.
– Inject the bacteriostatic water slowly into the vial, aiming for the side wall to minimise foaming and avoid damaging the peptide.
c. Dissolving:
– Let the vial sit for a few minutes to allow the lyophilised peptide to dissolve completely.
– If the peptide does not fully dissolve, gently swirl the vial, but avoid shaking too vigorously.
If not used immediately, store the reconstituted solution in the refrigerator.
4. Administration:
a. Prepare the Injection Site:
– Choose the injection site. Common sites include the abdomen (around the navel), the thigh, and the back of the upper arm.
– Clean the chosen injection site with an alcohol swab. Let it dry before injecting.
b. Drawing the Reconstituted Peptide:
– Remove the protective cap from the needle.
– Invert the vial and insert the needle into the center of the rubber stopper.
– Ensure the tip of the needle is beneath the liquid surface to prevent the introduction of air.
– Withdraw the desired amount of reconstituted peptide, following the recommended dosage.
c. Injecting the Peptide:
– Hold the syringe like a pencil with your dominant hand.
– Using your non-dominant hand, pinch a fold of skin at the injection site. This creates a small, raised area where the needle will be inserted.
– Insert the needle at a 45 to 90-degree angle into the pinched skin fold. The angle may vary depending on the needle length and the amount of subcutaneous tissue.
– Slowly push the plunger to inject the peptide.