Peptide Starter Checklist
Everything you need before your first injection. Work through each section before starting any peptide protocol.
Tip: Save or print this page and check off each item before your first injection. Rushing is the most common cause of mistakes.
Essential Supplies
Peptide vial(s)
Verify COA matches your batch before opening
Bacteriostatic water (BAC water)
10ml vial — NOT sterile water or distilled water
Insulin syringes — 0.3ml or 0.5ml, 31G or 32G
Alcohol swabs (70% isopropyl)
Sharps container
Or a thick plastic bottle with lid as substitute
Nice to Have
Peptide calculator bookmarked
peptidecalculator.com or primepeptides.co/peptide-calculator
Small refrigerator thermometer
Verify 2–8°C storage temperature
Travel cooler bag
For transport when away from home
Extra insulin syringes
Buy in bulk — cheaper per unit
Notebook or app for tracking doses and dates
Before First Injection
Read the full guide for your specific peptide
Dosing, timing, injection technique
Verify COA batch number matches vial label
Calculate your starting dose
Use a peptide calculator — triple check your math
Complete the health screening (contraindications)
See: Can I Take Peptides?
Choose your injection site and practice technique dry first
Have a support contact ready
Someone who knows you are starting a new compound
Storage Setup
Refrigerator confirmed at 2–8°C
Lyophilized (powder) peptides in refrigerator or freezer for long storage
Date label ready for reconstituted vials
Good for 4–6 weeks after reconstitution
Peptides stored away from direct light
BAC water stored at room temperature (unreconstituted)
Safety Screening
No active cancer or cancer history (especially for GH peptides)
Read contraindications for your specific peptide
No thyroid cancer history (for GLP-1 peptides: Retatrutide, Tirzepatide, Semaglutide)
Not pregnant or breastfeeding
No history of pancreatitis (for GLP-1 peptides)
No severe kidney or liver disease
Over 18 years old
Quick Reference: Reconstitution
For a 10mg peptide vial + 2ml BAC water:
| Desired Dose | Volume to Draw | Syringe Units (100IU) |
|---|---|---|
| 250mcg | 0.05ml | 5 units |
| 500mcg | 0.1ml | 10 units |
| 1mg | 0.2ml | 20 units |
| 2mg | 0.4ml | 40 units |
Concentrations change if you add more or less BAC water. Always use a peptide calculator to verify.
Checklist Complete?
Once you've worked through all items, you're ready for your first injection. Start with the lowest effective dose and titrate slowly. Remember: you can always take more, but you can't take less.