GHK-Cu vs NAD+
A neutral, side-by-side comparison of two anti-aging & longevity peptides — their mechanisms, dosing ranges, administration routes, side effects, and research evidence. For research and educational purposes only.
GHK-Cu
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. It plays a role in wound healing, skin regeneration, and anti-inflammatory signaling. Levels decline significantly with age, which has driven interest in topical and injectable supplementation.
Full profileNAD+
NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is a coenzyme essential to cellular metabolism, DNA repair, and mitochondrial function. Levels decline with age. Research focuses on restoring NAD+ through precursors (NMN, NR) or direct IV/subcutaneous administration to support longevity and energy metabolism.
Full profile| GHK-Cu | NAD+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Anti-Aging & Longevity | Anti-Aging & Longevity |
| Also known as | Copper Peptide GHK-Cu, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper, Copper Tripeptide-1 | Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, NAD, NAD+ precursor |
| Evidence | Research-stage | Preclinical only |
| Dosing range | 1mg–3mg mg, daily to every other day (injectable); twice daily (topical) | 250mg–1000mg mg, daily (oral precursors) or weekly/monthly (IV/SubQ) |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, Topical application (cream, serum — most common consumer use), Intradermal injection (skincare clinics) | Oral (precursors: NMN or NR), Intravenous infusion, Subcutaneous injection, Intranasal |
| Key side effects | Injection site redness (transient), Mild skin irritation with topical (typically resolves with reduced frequency), Rarely reported: metallic taste (with injectable use at higher doses) | Flushing (especially IV), Chest tightness during rapid IV infusion, Nausea, Fatigue (transient, day of infusion) |
| Cited sources | 4 references | 2 references |
Key differences
- Evidence level differs: GHK-Cu is research-stage, while NAD+ is preclinical only.
- Administration: GHK-Cu — Subcutaneous injection, Topical application (cream, serum — most common consumer use), Intradermal injection (skincare clinics); NAD+ — Oral (precursors: NMN or NR), Intravenous infusion, Subcutaneous injection, Intranasal.
- Frequency: GHK-Cu is typically daily to every other day (injectable); twice daily (topical); NAD+ is daily (oral precursors) or weekly/monthly (IV/SubQ).
- Research depth: this profile cites 4 sources for GHK-Cu vs 2 for NAD+.
How each works
GHK-Cu
GHK-Cu has been studied for its ability to stimulate collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis, promote wound healing, and exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Gene-expression work by Pickart and colleagues found GHK altered expression (>50% up or down) in roughly 32% of assayed human genes — the basis of the widely-cited '~4,000 genes' figure. Its evidence is strongest for in-vitro and topical/cosmetic use; robust human trials of injectable/systemic GHK-Cu are lacking.
NAD+
NAD+ is required for over 500 enzymatic reactions including those catalyzed by sirtuins (longevity-associated proteins) and PARPs (DNA repair enzymes). Rodent studies consistently show that restoring NAD+ levels reverses aspects of metabolic aging. Human trials with NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR) show improved muscle function, insulin sensitivity, and mitochondrial capacity in older adults.
This comparison aggregates public research and structured profile data for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not recommend either compound for human use. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before considering any peptide.