PE-22-28 (10mg Vial) Dosage Protocol
Spadin-derived heptapeptide (TREK-1 channel blocker) studied as a fast-acting antidepressant — preclinical (rodent) only, not approved.
Mix & measure PE-22-28 · 10 mg
Pre-filled with this protocol’s recommended BAC water and documented starting dose — edit any field to run your own numbers.
Reconstitution math only — not dosing advice. U-100 syringe: 100 units = 1 mL. Full reconstitution guide → · Advanced calculator →
Quickstart Highlights
PE-22-28 is a synthetic heptapeptide (sequence GVSWGLR) corresponding to residues 22–28 of spadin, the propeptide of sortilin, and acts as a potent, selective blocker of the TREK-1 (KCNK2) potassium channel[1][2]. This educational page outlines a once-daily subcutaneous approach with a dilution chosen so doses land on easy-to-read insulin-syringe marks. All available evidence is preclinical (rodent) only; it is an unapproved research chemical, not a medicine, with no human efficacy, safety, or pharmacokinetic data — presented for research and educational use only.
Add 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water to one 10 mg vial → ~3.33 mg/mL (3,333 mcg/mL), a practical dilution for accurate low-volume dosing.
50–200 mcg once daily, titrated upward gradually across an 8–16 week course (with optional higher weeks).
At ~3.33 mg/mL, 1 unit ≈ 33.3 mcg; 50 mcg ≈ 1.5 units and 200 mcg ≈ 6 units on a U-100 syringe.
Lyophilized: store at −20 °C (−4 °F); once reconstituted, refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F) and do not freeze the solution.
Important: Start with the Prep & Injection Guide — it covers the preparation and safety basics every protocol on this site assumes.
Dosing & Reconstitution Guide
A single practical dilution with accurate once-daily dosing, step by step
Standard / Gradual Approach (3 mL = ~3.33 mg/mL)
Reconstitute: Add 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water to one 10 mg vial → final concentration ~3.33 mg/mL (3,333 mcg/mL).
Typical daily range: 50–200 mcg once daily, raised gradually over an 8–16 week course.
Easy measuring: At ~3.33 mg/mL, 1 unit ≈ 33.3 mcg on a U-100 syringe. Because doses are very small, a 30- or 50-unit insulin syringe is recommended for the best low-volume accuracy.
Storage: Lyophilized: store at −20 °C (−4 °F); after reconstitution, refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F) and do not freeze the mixed solution.
Frequency: one subcutaneous injection each day, titrating up as tolerated. Units are calculated as mcg ÷ 33.3 at this dilution. Because doses are small, a 30- or 50-unit syringe improves readability[3]. These figures are derived from preclinical (rodent) reference work, not from any approved human dosing.
Reconstitution Steps
Draw 3.0 mL of bacteriostatic water into a sterile syringe.
Release it slowly down the vial’s inner wall to limit foaming.
Swirl or roll gently until fully dissolved — don’t shake.
Label with the date and concentration, then refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F), shielded from light.
Because PE-22-28 doses are very small, a 30- or 50-unit insulin syringe gives the most precise reading at this 3.33 mg/mL dilution. Avoid freezing the reconstituted solution, since freeze–thaw can denature the peptide.
Important: This guide is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. For research use only. Not for human consumption.
Supplies Needed
Quantities below assume an 8–16 week course of once-daily injections with gradual titration. Replace vials every 4 weeks to maintain potency.
Replace each vial every 4 weeks to maintain potency, so plan about one vial per 4 weeks of dosing.
- 8 weeks: ~2 vials
- 12 weeks: ~3 vials
- 16 weeks: ~4 vials
- Per injection: 1 syringe
- 8 weeks (once daily): ~56 syringes
- 16 weeks (once daily): ~112 syringes
Use ~3.0 mL per 10 mg vial for reconstitution.
- 8 weeks (2 vials): ~6 mL → 1 bottle
- 16 weeks (4 vials): ~12 mL → 2 bottles
One for the vial stopper + one for the injection site each day.
- Per injection: 2 swabs
- 8 weeks (once daily): ~112 swabs → 1–2 boxes
Protocol Overview
A concise summary of the once-daily regimen, drawn from commonly cited reference protocols.
- ▪Goal: Studied for fast-acting antidepressant-like effects via selective TREK-1 (KCNK2) blockade — effects observed in rodent models only, not established in humans[2][4].
- ▪Schedule: Daily subcutaneous injections for 8–16 weeks, with optional higher-dose weeks toward the end of the course.
- ▪Dose Range: 50–200 mcg per day with conservative gradual titration; many reference schedules use 100–150 mcg.
- ▪Reconstitution: 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water per 10 mg vial gives ~3.33 mg/mL for accurate low-volume measurements.
- ▪Storage: Keep the dry vial frozen at −20 °C (−4 °F); once mixed, refrigerate at 2–8 °C and do not freeze the solution.
Dosing Protocol
A suggested daily titration approach based on common reference doses.
- ▪Start: Begin at 50 mcg once daily for Weeks 1–2 to gauge tolerability.
- ▪Titrate: Increase to 100 mcg daily for Weeks 3–8 (standard maintenance).
- ▪Optional: If well tolerated and additional effect is desired, 150 mcg (Weeks 9–12) or 200 mcg (Weeks 13–16).
- ▪Cycle Length: Typically 8–16 weeks (8 weeks minimum).
- ▪Timing: Inject at a consistent time each day and rotate injection sites systematically.
Storage Instructions
Correct storage is what preserves the peptide’s stability and activity.
- ▪Lyophilized: Hold the dry vial at −20 °C (−4 °F) in dry, dark conditions and limit moisture exposure[7].
- ▪Reconstituted: Refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F) and use within about 28 days; do not freeze the mixed solution, as freezing can denature peptides[8].
- ▪Handling: Let frozen vials warm to room temperature before opening so condensation won’t form, and keep the solution clear of heat and direct light.
- ▪Freeze–thaw: Avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles of the reconstituted solution.
Important Notes
Practical points that keep daily administration safe and consistent.
- ▪Sterile technique: Use a fresh sterile U-100 insulin syringe each time and drop it straight into a puncture-proof sharps container afterward.
- ▪Site rotation: Move between abdomen, thighs and upper arms to reduce local irritation and lipohypertrophy[9].
- ▪Slow injection: Push the plunger slowly and pause a few seconds before withdrawing the needle to prevent backflow.
- ▪Recordkeeping: Log the daily dose, injection site and any observations to keep the protocol consistent.
- ▪Regulatory note: PE-22-28 is not FDA- or EMA-approved for human use. It is not specifically named on the WADA list but, as an unapproved substance, falls under the S0 catch-all category[10].
How This Works
PE-22-28 is a synthetic heptapeptide with the sequence GVSWGLR, corresponding to residues 22–28 of spadin — the propeptide released when sortilin is processed[1][2]. This short region retains spadin’s ability to block the TREK-1 channel.
Its proposed mechanism is potent, selective blockade of the TREK-1 (KCNK2) two-pore-domain potassium channel. By inhibiting TREK-1, PE-22-28 is hypothesized to enhance serotonergic signalling and hippocampal neurogenesis — the basis for the fast-acting antidepressant-like effect reported in rodent behavioural models[3][4].
In rodent studies, single or short courses have been associated with rapid behavioural changes (within days) and increased markers of neurogenesis and synaptogenesis in the hippocampus[3]. PE-22-28 is described as a highly potent TREK-1 blocker, so most preclinical effects were seen at low microgram amounts[4].
Important caveat: all of this evidence is preclinical — rodent behavioural models, brain slices and cell cultures. There is no human efficacy, safety, pharmacokinetic or blood-brain-barrier-penetration data for PE-22-28. Antidepressant “effects” should be read as animal-model hypotheses, not demonstrated human benefits, and reports of a clean side-effect profile are limited animal observations, not human safety findings.
PE-22-28 is not an approved medicine. It is an unapproved research chemical presented here for research and educational purposes only.
Lifestyle Factors
General habits that support mood and brain health alongside any research protocol.
- ▪Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet with adequate protein and omega-3 fats, which support healthy brain function.
- ▪Activity: Regular physical activity has well-established mood-supporting effects and complements any neuro-focused protocol.
- ▪Sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours of consistent sleep, since sleep strongly influences mood and cognition.
- ▪Stress: Manage stress with evidence-based practices, since chronic stress strongly affects mood and neuroplasticity.
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
What the preclinical (rodent) literature describes. There is no human data, so none of the items below are established benefits or a confirmed safety profile in people.
Potential Benefits
- ▪Antidepressant-like (preclinical): Rodent behavioural models report rapid antidepressant-like effects after TREK-1 blockade[3][4].
- ▪Neurogenesis (preclinical): Animal work links TREK-1 blockade to increased hippocampal neurogenesis and synaptogenesis markers[3].
- ▪Tolerability (animal only): Reported as well tolerated in limited rodent studies — an animal observation, not a human safety finding.
- ▪Note on humans: These effects are not established in humans — no clinical trials of PE-22-28 have been completed[13].
Common Side Effects
- ▪Injection-site reactions: Mild redness, tenderness or soreness can occur; rotating sites helps.
- ▪No human safety data: There is no human safety, toxicology or long-term data for PE-22-28, so caution is essential.
- ▪Sport restriction: As an unapproved substance, PE-22-28 falls under the WADA S0 catch-all category for athletes.
Injection Technique
General subcutaneous technique, following established clinical best-practice guidance[14][15].
Pre-Injection Preparation
- ▪Wash your hands well with soap and water.
- ▪Wipe the vial stopper with an alcohol swab and let it air-dry.
- ▪Choose a site (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm) and clean it with a fresh alcohol swab, letting it dry fully[15].
- ▪Draw the intended dose, then check for air bubbles and push any out.
Injection Procedure
- ▪Pinch a skinfold at the chosen site between thumb and forefinger.
- ▪Insert the needle into the pinch at a 45–90-degree angle (use 45 degrees if the fat layer is thin)[14].
- ▪Skip aspiration for subcutaneous shots — it isn’t needed[14].
- ▪Press the plunger slowly and steadily until it’s fully down.
- ▪Wait 5–10 seconds, then pull the needle straight out to prevent leakage.
Post-Injection Care
- ▪Drop the used syringe straight into a puncture-proof sharps container — never recap a needle.
- ▪Return the reconstituted vial to the fridge right away.
- ▪Rotate the injection site each day to prevent irritation and lipohypertrophy[9].
- ▪Watch the site for excess redness, swelling, or signs of infection.
Recommended Source
PE-22-28 is a niche research peptide that is not always stocked. For high-purity research peptides generally, we point researchers to Prime Lab Peptides.
Why Prime Lab Peptides?
- ▪Top-rated on Trustpilot: Independently reviewed as the highest-rated peptide lab on Trustpilot — making it the best current source in the USA.
- ▪Third-party tested: Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) confirming purity and composition.
- ▪Consistent quality: ISO-aligned manufacturing and handling keep product integrity reliable batch to batch.
- ▪Cold-chain integrity: Temperature-controlled shipping and storage across the whole fulfilment chain.
- ▪Research-grade purity: Fit for educational and research use that demands high-quality peptides.
Note: Product availability and specifications subject to change. Verify current product details on supplier website.
References
- 1
Mazella et al., PLoS Biology (2010)Spadin, a sortilin-derived peptide, acts as a TREK-1 blocker and produces antidepressant-like effects in rodents.
- 2
Veyssiere et al., PNAS (2015)Retro-inverso and short spadin analogs (including PE-22-28) as optimized TREK-1 blockers with antidepressant activity in mice.
- 3
Djillani et al., Frontiers in Pharmacology / J. Neurochem.Shortened spadin analog PE-22-28: fast antidepressant action, increased hippocampal neurogenesis and synaptogenesis in rodent models.
- 4
Djillani et al., Review (TREK-1 / spadin)Review of TREK-1 (KCNK2) as an antidepressant target and the development of spadin-derived peptides such as PE-22-28.
- 5
Heurteaux et al., Nature Neuroscience (2006)TREK-1 knockout produces a depression-resistant phenotype, establishing TREK-1 as an antidepressant target.
- 6
Mazella & Borsotto, Pharmacology of spadinSortilin/spadin signalling and modulation of TREK-1 potassium channels relevant to mood regulation.
- 7
Peptide Storage GuideBest practices for storing lyophilized peptides (temperature, humidity and light protection).
- 8
Bacteriostatic Water GuidanceBacteriostatic water for injection: multi-dose vial stability and handling.
- 9
NCBI BookshelfBest practices for subcutaneous injection: aseptic technique and site rotation.
- 10
WADA Prohibited ListPE-22-28 is not specifically named; as an unapproved substance it falls under the S0 (non-approved substances) catch-all category.
- 11
Hippocampal neurogenesis and antidepressant actionPreclinical work linking enhanced hippocampal neurogenesis and synaptogenesis to antidepressant-like effects.
- 12
TREK-1 (KCNK2) channel pharmacologyBackground on TREK-1 two-pore-domain potassium channels and their role in neuronal excitability and mood.
- 13
ClinicalTrials.govTrial registry search for PE-22-28 / spadin — no completed human efficacy trials are listed for this peptide.
- 14
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Subcutaneous injection technique: angle, site and no-aspiration guidance.
- 15
Subcutaneous Injection Technique (Patient Education)How to administer a subcutaneous injection: clinical technique guidelines.
- 16
Prime Lab PeptidesHigh-purity research peptides with third-party certificates of analysis.
How to reconstitute PE-22-28
- 1Wipe the vial stopper and your bacteriostatic-water vial with an alcohol swab.
- 2Draw your chosen amount of bacteriostatic water and inject it slowly down the inner wall of the PE-22-28 vial.
- 3Let it rest, then gently swirl until fully dissolved — do not shake.
- 4Refrigerate the reconstituted vial and draw each dose with a U-100 insulin syringe.
PE-22-28 — frequently asked questions
How do I reconstitute a 10 mg vial of PE-22-28?
Wipe the stopper with an alcohol swab, then inject your bacteriostatic water slowly down the inside wall of the vial. Let it sit and gently swirl until dissolved — never shake. Store the mixed vial in the refrigerator and draw doses with an insulin syringe. Use the calculator above to turn any dose into syringe units.
How much bacteriostatic water should I add to PE-22-28?
There is no single correct amount — more water simply spreads the same 10 mg of peptide across a larger volume, which makes small doses easier to measure accurately. 1 to 3 mL per vial is typical. Enter your chosen volume in the calculator above to see the resulting concentration and syringe units.
What do the "units" on an insulin syringe mean?
On a U-100 insulin syringe, 100 units equal 1 mL, so 1 unit equals 0.01 mL. The calculator above converts your draw volume into these units automatically so you can measure without doing the math by hand.
How should I store PE-22-28 after mixing?
Keep the reconstituted vial refrigerated at roughly 2 to 8 degrees Celsius, away from light, and avoid freezing it. Reconstituted research peptides are generally used within a few weeks. Always follow the specific guidance supplied with your product.
How many doses does a 10 mg vial of PE-22-28 provide?
Divide the vial strength of 10 mg by the amount you use per injection. The calculator above reports this as "doses per vial" the moment you enter a dose.
Is PE-22-28 approved for human use?
No. PE-22-28 is sold strictly for laboratory and research purposes and is not approved by the FDA or other regulators for human use. Everything on this page is research information, not medical advice — consult a licensed healthcare professional before any use.
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