Peptides are short chains of amino acids that help carry messages between cells. You may already know some: insulin is a peptide, and medications commonly called GLP-1s work through peptide signaling. 

In comparison, a hormone is a chemical messenger that travels through the bloodstream to deliver its message to organs and tissues. For example, thyroid-stimulating hormone tells the thyroid to produce more T4. 

Different peptides are being explored for different goals, including tissue repair, immune signaling, inflammation modulation, growth and regeneration, metabolism and body composition, and cognitive and neurological health. That variety is part of the excitement—and the reason to get specific. 

For example, BPC-157 has attracted interest in injury recovery and gut health, because it appears to affect several processes involved in tissue repair and inflammation, including fibroblast activity, nitric oxide signaling, and inflammatory cytokines.” 

Kisspeptin is a natural brain peptide produced by the hypothalamus that acts like a master switch for reproductive hormones. It’s been used to trigger egg maturation during IVF, restore menstrual cycles in women with stress-related missed periods, and potentially treat low libido. 

Sermorelin is a synthetic peptide that mimics GHRH, stimulating the pituitary gland to produce and release more growth hormone. It is used to improve sleep, energy, and body composition. 

Peptides come in different forms depending on the type and the condition being addressed. It’s not one size fits all; each has its own protocol. 

Injectable (subcutaneous): Most reliable absorption 

Oral/capsule: Limited stability for many peptides 

Sublingual/buccal: Bypasses digestion for some peptides 

Nasal: Often used for neurologic signaling 

Topical: Primarily cosmetic or localized use 

I’m glad my patients are asking about peptides, and I’m aware that many are available online, and they all sound so exciting and promising. But if you’re considering a peptide, bring the product information to your next appointment so we can discuss it.  

Now, if you can’t wait, just ask yourself: What is this peptide intended to do? What evidence supports its use? Where did the product come from? How would we know whether it is helping or causing a problem? A purity claim on a website does not answer every question about an injectable product.

Most peptides are not FDA approved, which means “anything goes” with no regulation. This is why licensed compound pharmacies will not dispense them, and online peptide sellers do.

Most importantly, peptides are not a stand-alone treatment. A healthy diet, exercise, and stress reduction are still needed for the best outcome.