New — Free Peptide Starter Guide (2026): 13 chapters, 34 cited studies

Get it free
ToolsCompareGHK-Cu vs Cagrilintide

GHK-Cu vs Cagrilintide

Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.

Skin & CosmeticRecovery & RepairAnti-Aging & Longevity
GHK-Cu
GLP-1 / Weight Loss Agonists
Cagrilintide
Summary
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper complex that declines with age. It is one of the most studied anti-aging peptides, known for powerful skin rejuvenation, wound healing, and tissue remodeling effects.
Cagrilintide is a long-acting amylin analog developed by Novo Nordisk. Amylin is a peptide hormone co-secreted with insulin from pancreatic beta cells. Cagrilintide slows gastric emptying, suppresses glucagon, and reduces appetite via central amylin receptors. In combination with semaglutide (CagriSema), Phase 2 trials achieved approximately 15% body weight reduction. Phase 3 trials (REDEFINE program) are ongoing.
Half-Life
2–4 hours
~7–10 days
Admin Route
SubQ, Topical
SubQ
Research
Typical Dose
1–3 mg
0.16 mg → 0.3 mg → 0.6 mg → 1.2 mg → 2.4 mg
Frequency
3–5 times per week
Once weekly
Key Benefits
  • Reduces wrinkles and fine lines
  • Improves skin firmness and elasticity
  • Accelerates wound healing
  • Reduces inflammation and oxidative damage
  • Promotes hair growth and thickness
  • Supports collagen and elastin production
  • May improve overall skin health and appearance
  • Resets aged fibroblast behavior
  • Anti-fibrotic — reduces scar tissue formation
  • ~15% body weight reduction in combination with semaglutide (CagriSema Phase 2)
  • Synergistic appetite suppression complementing GLP-1 receptor agonists
  • Reduces post-meal glucagon excursions improving glycemic control
  • Slows gastric emptying contributing to prolonged satiety
  • Once-weekly dosing via subcutaneous injection
  • Potential for greater weight loss than semaglutide monotherapy
Side Effects
  • Temporary blue-green discoloration at injection site (from copper — harmless)
  • Post-injection sting (brief)
  • Skin irritation with topical use (rare)
  • Nausea (most common, especially during titration)
  • Vomiting
  • Decreased appetite
  • Diarrhea
  • +2 more
Stacks With