Proper storage is the difference between a research compound that retains full potency and one that silently degrades into uselessness. Compounds are sensitive to temperature, light, moisture, and mechanical stress. This guide covers exactly how to store them at every stage, from arrival to the last draw.
Compounds exist in two fundamentally different storage states, and the rules change significantly between them.
| Property | Lyophilised (powder) | Reconstituted (liquid) |
|---|---|---|
| Optimal temp | −20°C (freezer) | 2–8°C (refrigerator) |
| Acceptable temp | 2–8°C (fridge) for weeks | Room temp for hours only |
| Shelf life | 12–24+ months (frozen) | Up to 30 days (refrigerated) |
| Light sensitivity | Moderate | High |
| Freeze-thaw safe? | Yes (already dry) | No, avoid |
| Main degradation risk | Moisture absorption | Hydrolysis, oxidation, bacteria |
Lyophilised compounds are freeze-dried into a stable powder form. In this state they're relatively robust, but proper storage still matters.
UV light causes photo-oxidation of tryptophan, tyrosine, and methionine residues. Keep vials in original packaging or an opaque container. A solid-door (not glass) freezer provides inherent light protection.
The biggest enemy of lyophilised compounds. The whole point of lyophilisation is to remove water; if it's reabsorbed, degradation reactions restart. Keep crimped caps sealed; for opened vials use parafilm and a sealed container with desiccant packets.
Shipping note: Compounds shipped at ambient temperature are fine. Lyophilised compounds are stable enough to survive 3–5 days in transit without significant degradation. Once they arrive, move them to the freezer or refrigerator promptly.
Once you add bacteriostatic water to a lyophilised compound, the clock starts ticking. The compound is now dissolved in solution and subject to hydrolysis (water breaking peptide bonds), oxidation, and potential bacterial contamination.
Refrigerate immediately after reconstitution. Never freeze a reconstituted compound unless aliquoted into single-use portions, and never refreeze a thawed aliquot.
Reconstituted compounds are more light-sensitive than their lyophilised form because dissolved peptides are more reactive. Store in a dark area of the fridge, inside the original box, or wrap in aluminium foil.
Standard guidance: use within 30 days of reconstitution at 2–8°C in BAC water. Benzyl alcohol inhibits bacterial growth, but doesn't stop chemical degradation.
Do not freeze reconstituted compounds. Freezing creates ice crystals that physically damage peptide structures and cause aggregation. If you must store long-term, aliquot into single-use portions before freezing, and never refreeze a thawed aliquot.
Some compounds are more stable than others in solution.
| Stability | Examples | Reconstituted shelf life |
|---|---|---|
| High | BPC-157, TB-500, GHK-Cu | 28–35 days |
| Moderate | CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, GLP-1 RC-S | 21–30 days |
| Lower | HGH, IGF-1 LR3, MGF | 14–21 days |
If you notice any of the following, discard the vial.
All New-U Research Compounds arrive lyophilised and independently verified by Janoshik & Freedom Diagnostics. 10-vial packs, shipped worldwide.