What exactly are peptides?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids (typically containing fewer than 50 amino acids) linked by peptide bonds. They function as precise signaling molecules in the body, instructing cells to perform specific tasks—such as repairing tissue, modulating immune responses, regulating metabolism, or burning fat. Think of them as software updates for your cellular biology.
What is the difference between “Research Use” and “Therapeutic Use“?
Important Regulatory Note: In accordance with local laws and regulations, many of our high-purity peptides are sold strictly for laboratory research and in-vitro evaluation. They are not intended for diagnostic, therapeutic, or direct human consumption unless explicitly labeled otherwise under a designated clinical category. Please review your local guidelines before purchasing.
How do peptides differ from proteins?
The primary difference is size. Peptides are shorter chains of amino acids, whereas proteins are longer, more complex chains (usually more than 50 amino acids) that fold into intricate three-dimensional structures. Because peptides are smaller, they are often easier for the body to utilize for highly targeted cellular signaling.
Are your peptides synthetic or natural?
Our peptides are bio-identical, synthetically engineered compounds. By synthesizing them in a controlled laboratory environment, we can ensure a level of purity, exact molecular sequencing, and freedom from biological contaminants that naturally sourced peptides simply cannot match.
How do I know your peptides are pure?
Every single batch of peptides we distribute undergoes rigorous testing using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Mass Spectrometry (MS). We guarantee a purity level of 99%+ across our entire product line, ensuring no heavy metals, residual solvents, or unsequenced bi-products are present.
Do you provide Certificates of Analysis (COAs)?
Yes, absolutely. Transparency is one of our core pillars. You can view or request the third-party lab COAs for any specific batch directly through our product pages or by contacting our support team with your batch number.
Where are your products manufactured?
Our peptides are synthesized in state-of-the-art, certified facilities that adhere to strict Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) standards. This guarantees zero cross-contamination and maximum chemical stability.
Why do some vials of the same peptide look like they have different amounts of powder?
Peptides are freeze-dried (lyophilized) alongside a “bulking agent” (usually mannitol) to create a stable “cake” at the bottom of the vial. Minor variations in the freeze-drying pressure can cause the cake to appear larger, smaller, or slightly loose in the vial. However, the exact milligram weight of the active peptide remains perfectly precise and identical across all vials of the same batch.
Reconstitution & Handling
What liquid should be used to reconstitute lyophilized peptides?
Typically, Bacteriostatic Water (sterile water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol) is used for reconstitution. The benzyl alcohol acts as a mild preservative that prevents bacterial growth, making the solution safe for multiple extractions over several weeks.
How much liquid do I add to the vial?
The amount of liquid you add depends entirely on your desired concentration and volume calculations. For example, adding 2 mL of bacteriostatic water to a 5 mg vial of peptides yields a concentration of 2.5 mg per mL.
How should I store my peptides before they are mixed?
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Lyophilized (Freeze-Dried) Powder: Store in a cool, dark place or in a standard refrigerator ($2^circtext{C}$ to $8^circtext{C}$) for short-term storage. For long-term storage (up to 2 years), keep them frozen at $-20^circtext{C}$ to preserve maximum molecular integrity.
How should I store my peptides after they are mixed?
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Reconstituted Peptides: Once mixed with a solvent, they must be stored in the refrigerator ($2^circtext{C}$ to $8^circtext{C}$) and should ideally be used within 30 to 60 days. Never freeze a peptide after it has been reconstituted, as ice crystals can damage the delicate molecular bonds.
Can I shake the vial to mix the powder faster?
No, never shake the vial. Peptides are fragile, highly sensitive molecular structures. Forceful shaking can denature the peptide chains, rendering them completely ineffective. Instead, gently swirl the vial or let it sit in the refrigerator for a few minutes until the powder dissolves naturally.
How are the peptides shipped to ensure they don’t degrade in transit?
Our peptides are shipped in their lyophilized (freeze-dried) state, which makes them highly stable and resistant to ambient temperature fluctuations during standard transit times. Brief exposure to summer heat during shipping will not damage the integrity of the freeze-dried powder. Once received, simply transfer them to your recommended long-term storage.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, Alpha & Omega Peptides ships globally. However, please note that shipping regulations regarding peptides vary significantly by country. It is the buyer’s absolute responsibility to understand and comply with local customs laws, import duties, and regulations before placing an order.
How long does shipping typically take?
Standard domestic orders are processed within 24–48 hours and typically arrive within 3 to 5 business days. International shipping times vary depending on the destination country and customs clearance processes, usually ranging from 7 to 21 business days.
What is your return policy?
Due to the sterile nature and strict quality control standards of our chemical compounds, we cannot accept returns or offer refunds on opened products or products that have left our climate-controlled chain of custody. If there is a physical defect with your vial or an error with your shipment, please contact us within 14 days of delivery for a replacement.
Why did my peptide solution turn cloudy after mixing?
A cloudy solution usually indicates that the peptide has not fully dissolved, the temperature of the liquid was too cold during mixing, or the pH balance of the solution is slightly off. Allow the vial to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours. If it remains cloudy or develops a precipitate, please contact our support team with your batch details.
Can two different peptides be mixed in the same vial or syringe?
We strongly advise against mixing different peptide powders into a single vial, as this can cause unpredictable chemical reactions, degradation, or altering of the individual peptide structures. For research precision, keep your compounds entirely separate.
Do peptides have a shelf life or expiration date?
Yes. In their un-reconstituted, freeze-dried state, they will last roughly 12 months at room temperature, up to 24 months in a standard refrigerator, and up to several years if kept in a deep freeze ($-20^circtext{C}$). Once reconstituted, their efficacy begins to gradually decline after 60 days.