Mixing a vial (reconstitution), step by step

2 min read

What reconstitution means

Peptides are often freeze-dried (lyophilised) because the powder keeps better than liquid. Before use, the powder is dissolved in a sterile liquid, usually bacteriostatic water. Your product's instructions, or your pharmacist, should tell you which liquid and how much.

Before you start

• Wash your hands and clear a clean surface.
• Check both vials: the right product, intact seals, within date.
• Let a vial that's been in the fridge sit for a few minutes so it isn't ice cold.
• Have alcohol swabs, a new syringe and a sharps container ready.

The steps

1. Remove the caps and wipe both rubber stoppers with an alcohol swab. Let them air-dry fully.
2. Draw the amount of water you were told to use into a new syringe.
3. Push the needle through the stopper of the peptide vial at an angle, and let the water run slowly down the inside wall. Don't squirt it straight onto the powder.
4. Remove the needle and swirl or roll the vial gently until the powder dissolves. Don't shake it, as this can damage some peptides and cause foaming.
5. If some powder is left, give it a few minutes in the fridge and swirl again.
6. Check the liquid: it should normally be clear (see the cloudy vial guide if not).
7. Write the mixing date on the label, and store it as directed, usually in the fridge.

How much water should I add?

Follow your prescriber's or the product's instructions. The water doesn't change the total amount of peptide; it changes the concentration. More water means each dose takes up more units on the syringe, which can be easier to measure. Less water means smaller draws.

Our dose calculator shows exactly where to draw for your vial, and the water planner works backwards from the number of units you'd like each dose to be.

A worked example

Keep reading

General information, not medical advice. Always follow your product's instructions and your healthcare professional.

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