Peptide Research Database

Research-backed information on peptides — dosage, half-life, risks, and the latest peer-reviewed studies from PubMed.

91peptides
11categories
1820research papers

Popular Peptides

5-Amino-1MQ

Weight LossMetabolic

A pill that aims to switch fat cells from 'storage mode' to 'burning mode' by blocking an enzyme (NNMT) that is overactive in the fat tissue of overweight people. Not technically a peptide, but commonly sold alongside them. Unlike appetite suppressants, this targets the fat cells directly rather than making you eat less. The science is promising in lab studies, but there are no completed human trials yet.

Fat MetabolismMetabolic EnhancementInsulin Sensitivity
Half-life:12-16 hours (limited pharmacokinetic data)

ACE-031

Bodybuilding

An experimental drug that acts as a 'decoy' to intercept myostatin and other muscle-limiting signals before they reach your muscles. It produced rapid muscle gains in clinical trials without any exercise. However, development was halted because it also accidentally blocked signals needed to maintain healthy blood vessels, causing nosebleeds and visible broken blood vessels. A powerful proof-of-concept that myostatin blocking works, but too dangerous in its current form.

Muscle Mass GainAnti-AgingBone Density
Half-life:240-336 hours (10-14 days)

Acetic Acid

Supply

A dilute sterile acetic acid solution (typically 0.6%) used to dissolve certain peptides that don't dissolve well in plain water at neutral pH. Required specifically for peptides that need acidic conditions to dissolve. Only used when the peptide manufacturer specifically recommends acetic acid reconstitution — most peptides should use bacteriostatic water instead.

Half-life:Not applicable

Adipotide

Weight Loss

An extreme experimental approach to fat loss — it physically destroys the blood vessels that feed fat tissue, starving fat cells until they die. Originally developed using anti-cancer technology at MD Anderson Cancer Center. While it did reduce fat in monkey studies, it also caused serious kidney damage, which has effectively stopped its development. Not available for human use.

Fat DestructionWeight Loss
Half-life:Estimated 2-4 hours (limited pharmacokinetic data)

AEDG Peptide

Anti-Aging

A tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) identical to Epithalon's core active sequence — effectively the same compound. Studied for telomerase activation and pineal gland regulation, promoting melatonin production and potentially slowing cellular aging through telomere maintenance. Part of the Khavinson bioregulator peptide family developed in St. Petersburg.

Telomerase ActivationPineal Regulation
Half-life:1-2 hours

AICAR

MetabolicBodybuilding

A natural compound that activates your cells' energy sensor — the same pathway that turns on during exercise. Mimics the metabolic effects of endurance exercise at the cellular level, helping with fat burning, glucose uptake, and building more mitochondria. Banned by WADA as a metabolic modulator after detection in professional cycling.

Exercise MimeticAMPK Activation
Half-life:2-3 hours

Alprostadil

Sexual Health

A medication that treats erectile dysfunction by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, allowing blood to flow in and create an erection. Unlike pills that require arousal to work, this works directly at the injection or application site — you don't need to be in the mood. Available as an injection into the penis or as a small pellet inserted into the urethra.

Erectile FunctionBlood FlowWound Healing
Half-life:5-10 minutes (rapidly metabolized in the lungs)

AOD-9604

Weight Loss

A small piece of human growth hormone (amino acids 176-191) designed to keep only the fat-burning effects while removing the unwanted side effects of full growth hormone (like swelling and blood sugar problems). The idea is promising — burn fat without the downsides — but it failed to show significant weight loss in clinical trials. Still widely used in research and wellness clinics despite the weak clinical evidence.

Fat MetabolismLipogenesis InhibitionIGF-1 Neutral
Half-life:1-2 hours

Ara-290

Healing

A peptide derived from EPO (the hormone that boosts red blood cells) but engineered to keep only the tissue-protective effects — it doesn't increase red blood cells at all. It activates the body's repair receptors to protect tissues and regenerate nerves. Particularly promising for nerve damage and tissue injury from poor blood flow. People use it for diabetic nerve damage and similar conditions.

Nerve RegenerationTissue ProtectionAnti-Apoptotic
Half-life:2 minutes (tissue-protective effects persist much longer)

Bacteriostatic Water

Supply

Sterile water with preservative (0.9% benzyl alcohol) that prevents bacteria from growing. The standard liquid used to dissolve freeze-dried peptides. The preservative allows safe multi-dose use over multiple days. An essential supply for anyone using injectable peptides — not a therapeutic agent itself.

Half-life:Not applicable

Botulinum Toxin

Beauty

A toxin produced by bacteria — the most potent biological toxin known, yet one of the most widely used cosmetic and medical treatments globally. In carefully controlled doses, it temporarily relaxes targeted muscles by blocking the signal that tells muscles to contract. Approved for cosmetic wrinkle reduction and many medical conditions including chronic migraine, excessive sweating, and neck muscle spasms. People use it for forehead lines, crow's feet, frown lines, and various medical conditions.

Wrinkle EliminationMedical Applications
Half-life:Effects persist 2160-4320 hours (3-6 months); toxin itself degrades within days at the injection site

BPC-157

HealingBodybuilding

A healing compound made from a protein found in stomach fluid. It's the most studied peptide for tissue repair, with research showing it helps heal tendons, ligaments, muscles, the gut, and other organs. It's stable enough to survive stomach acid, so you can take it either by injection under the skin or by mouth.

Tendon/Ligament HealingGut RepairAnti-InflammatoryNeuroprotection
Half-life:4 hours (stable in gastric juice)

BPC-157 + TB-500

HealingBodybuilding

A two-in-one product that pairs BPC-157 and TB-500 to target different healing pathways. BPC-157 focuses on gut, tendon, and ligament repair by supporting blood vessel growth and nitric oxide signaling, while TB-500 helps cells move to injury sites for body-wide tissue repair. The most popular peptide combination for healing and recovery.

Synergistic HealingAnti-Inflammatory
Half-life:BPC-157: 4 hours | TB-500: 2-3 hours

Cagrilintide

Weight Loss

A long-acting version of amylin, a natural hormone your body releases after eating that tells your brain you're full. It works through a completely different pathway than GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide, which is why combining them (as CagriSema) produces even better results. On its own, it reduces how much you eat per meal by signalling fullness earlier. Developed by Novo Nordisk, mainly as part of the CagriSema combination.

Appetite SuppressionWeight LossSatiety Enhancement
Half-life:168 hours (7 days)

CagriSema

Weight Loss

A once-weekly injection that combines two powerful appetite-suppressing drugs — cagrilintide and semaglutide — into a single shot. By targeting two different hunger pathways in the brain simultaneously, it achieves roughly 25% body weight loss in trials, making it one of the most effective weight loss treatments ever developed. Think of it as the next generation beyond Wegovy. Still awaiting FDA approval.

Weight LossAppetite SuppressionBlood Sugar Control
Half-life:168 hours (7 days) for both components

Cerebrolysin

Cognitive

A mix of brain-derived peptides and amino acids from pig brains. Widely used worldwide for stroke recovery, brain injury, and brain degeneration. Mimics the body's natural brain-supporting factors to help neurons survive, form new connections, and grow.

Neurotrophic SupportNeuroprotectionNeurogenesis
Half-life:Peptide fragments: minutes to hours; neurotrophic effects persist for days

CJC-1295 (no DAC)

BodybuildingAnti-Aging

One of the most popular growth hormone peptides, often called Mod GRF 1-29. Instead of injecting growth hormone directly, this tells your pituitary gland to release more of its own GH naturally. This is considered healthier than injecting GH directly because your body keeps its normal feedback systems intact. Usually combined with Ipamorelin for much stronger effects — the two work together better than either alone.

GH ReleaseMuscle GrowthFat LossRecovery
Half-life:0.5 hours

CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin

BodybuildingAnti-Aging

The most commonly prescribed peptide combination in anti-aging and regenerative medicine. Pairs the GHRH analogue CJC-1295 (Mod GRF 1-29) with the selective ghrelin-mimetic Ipamorelin for synergistic, pulsatile growth hormone release. Exploits two complementary signaling pathways — cAMP (GHRH) and calcium/PLC (ghrelin receptor) — to amplify GH pulses while maintaining minimal side effects.

Synergistic GH ReleaseBody Composition
Half-life:CJC-1295: 0.5 hours | Ipamorelin: 2 hours

CJC-1295 with DAC

BodybuildingAnti-Aging

The long-acting version of CJC-1295. After injection it attaches to a protein in your blood (albumin), which keeps it active for nearly a week instead of just 30 minutes. This means you only need to inject once a week. The trade-off is that it keeps growth hormone elevated constantly rather than in natural pulses, which some practitioners consider less ideal for your body. More convenient but potentially less natural than the no-DAC version.

Sustained GH ElevationMuscle GrowthFat Loss
Half-life:144-192 hours (6-8 days)

Cortagen

CognitiveAnti-Aging

A short synthetic peptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Pro) developed by the Khavinson Institute in Russia. Designed to support brain cortex function by modulating gene expression in brain cells. Part of the Khavinson peptide bioregulator family alongside Epithalon and Vilon. One of the few peptides specifically formulated for brain function optimization, available in both injectable and oral/sublingual forms.

Cortical FunctionNeuroprotection
Half-life:1-3 hours

Dermorphin

Healing

A powerful opioid peptide first found in the skin of a South American tree frog. It's roughly 30–40 times stronger than morphine at the pain-relief receptor. Highly controversial because it was widely abused in horse racing — given to horses to mask pain and enhance performance — leading to doping scandals and animal welfare concerns.

Pain Relief
Half-life:1-2 hours (more stable than endogenous opioid peptides)

Dihexa

CognitiveAnti-Aging

A compound derived from angiotensin IV, reported to be extremely potent at enhancing memory and brain plasticity in animal studies. One of the most discussed nootropic compounds for memory enhancement. Works through a different pathway than typical brain drugs — the HGF/c-Met system rather than traditional neurotransmitter pathways.

Cognitive EnhancementDendritic Spine Growth
Half-life:Estimated several hours (limited pharmacokinetic data)

DSIP

SleepAnti-Aging

Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide — a nine-amino-acid peptide originally found in rabbit brain during sleep research. Promotes deep, restorative sleep (stage 3 sleep) while also helping with stress, pain perception, and cell damage from stress. One of the few peptides that specifically targets sleep quality rather than just causing drowsiness.

Delta Sleep PromotionStress ReductionOpioid Modulation
Half-life:15-25 minutes (sleep-promoting effects persist throughout the night)

Enclomiphene

Sexual HealthBodybuilding

A medication that boosts natural testosterone production by blocking estrogen's feedback signal in the brain. Used in men's health clinics as an alternative to testosterone shots that preserves fertility and testicular function. Unlike mixed clomiphene (Clomid), enclomiphene lacks the estrogen-like component (zuclomiphene) that causes many of clomiphene's side effects.

Testosterone ElevationFertility PreservationHormone Balance
Half-life:10 hours

Epithalon

Anti-Aging

A lab-made peptide based on a natural compound from the pineal gland (a small gland in your brain). It's studied for its ability to activate telomerase, the enzyme that keeps the protective caps on the ends of your chromosomes from shortening. Since those caps naturally shorten as cells age, this peptide is one of the most talked-about in anti-aging research. Originally developed in Russia.

Telomerase ActivationMelatonin ProductionAnti-Aging Potential
Half-life:2-4 hours

EPO

Bodybuilding

A hormone your kidneys make that tells your bone marrow to produce more red blood cells. More red blood cells means more oxygen-carrying capacity in your blood. Used to treat anemia from kidney disease, chemotherapy, or blood loss. Notorious for abuse in endurance sports — cyclists and runners have used it to boost performance because it dramatically increases oxygen delivery.

Red Blood Cell ProductionEndurance PerformanceRecovery
Half-life:IV: 5 hours | Subcutaneous: 24 hours | Darbepoetin (long-acting): 48 hours

Follistatin

Bodybuilding

A natural protein that blocks myostatin — your body's built-in limit on how much muscle you can grow. Think of myostatin as the 'brake pedal' for muscle growth; follistatin takes that brake off, allowing muscles to grow beyond their normal limit. This is the same mechanism behind those incredibly muscular cattle breeds. Available as FS344 (the most common form). Short cycles are recommended because it also affects fertility hormones.

Myostatin InhibitionMuscle Growth Potential
Half-life:FS344: 4-6 hours | FS315: longer due to tissue binding

FOXO4-DRI

Anti-Aging

A peptide designed to selectively kill 'zombie cells' — old, damaged cells that have stopped dividing but stay alive and pump out inflammatory signals. They accumulate with age and contribute to chronic inflammation. This peptide breaks the mechanism that keeps them alive, allowing them to die off. In aged mice it showed rejuvenating effects, but it's still highly experimental for humans.

Senolytic ActionRejuvenation
Half-life:Extended (hours to days; D-amino acid configuration resists protease degradation)

GDF-8 (Myostatin)

Bodybuilding

Your body's built-in limit on muscle size. Myostatin is the protein that tells your muscles 'stop growing' — it's the brake, not the accelerator. Included here because it's the target that drugs like follistatin and ACE-031 try to block. When this protein doesn't work (due to genetic mutations), the result is extraordinary muscle development — seen in certain cattle breeds, racing dogs, and at least one documented human case. Blocking myostatin is one of the most researched goals in muscle science.

Half-life:12 hours

GHK-Cu

BeautyAnti-AgingHealing

A naturally occurring copper-binding peptide found throughout the body; levels drop after age 20. The most studied cosmetic peptide, with proven effects on collagen production, skin renewal, wound healing, and antioxidant protection. It influences over 4,000 genes, shifting them toward a younger, more regenerative pattern. People use it for skin aging, wound healing, and anti-aging.

Skin RejuvenationGene RegulationWound HealingAntioxidant
Half-life:Topical: variable (local effect) | Injectable: 1-2 hours

GHRP-2

Bodybuilding

The second most powerful growth hormone peptide after Hexarelin, but with a better balance of effectiveness vs side effects. It boosts GH strongly while only moderately raising cortisol and prolactin — a good middle ground. Extensively studied in Japanese clinical trials, making it one of the best-understood GH peptides. Also shows stomach-protective properties in animal studies. Often combined with CJC-1295 for stronger results.

GH ReleaseAppetite IncreaseGastroprotection
Half-life:1-2 hours

GHRP-6

Bodybuilding

One of the oldest growth hormone peptides, developed in the 1980s. Known for strong GH release but also extreme hunger — it makes you ravenous within 20-30 minutes of injection. This makes it bad for fat loss but potentially useful for people who need to gain weight or struggle with appetite. Research on this peptide actually led to the discovery of ghrelin (the hunger hormone) itself. Also shows protective effects on the heart, liver, and stomach lining.

GH ReleaseAppetite IncreaseCytoprotection
Half-life:2-3 hours

GLP-1

Weight LossMetabolic

The natural appetite hormone that your gut produces after eating — it's what all GLP-1 weight loss drugs (semaglutide, tirzepatide, etc.) are designed to copy. Your body makes it naturally, but it breaks down within 1-2 minutes, which is far too fast to use as a medicine. That's why drug companies created modified versions that last days instead of minutes. Included here because understanding GLP-1 is key to understanding the entire class of modern weight loss drugs.

Blood Sugar ControlAppetite SuppressionGastric Emptying
Half-life:1-2 minutes

Glutathione

Anti-AgingBeauty

The body's main antioxidant — present in every cell and essential for detoxification, immune function, and protection against oxidative damage. Widely used for skin brightening (it slows dark pigment production), liver support, and overall antioxidant therapy. Available as IV infusion, oral supplement, or injection. People use it for skin lightening, detox support, and anti-aging.

AntioxidantDetoxificationSkin Brightening
Half-life:Intracellular: hours (continuously recycled via glutathione reductase) | IV: rapidly distributed to tissues

Gonadorelin

Sexual HealthBodybuilding

A lab-made copy of the hormone your brain naturally releases to tell your body to make reproductive hormones. When given in short pulses (not continuously), it signals the pituitary gland to release hormones that keep the testes working. Used for fertility treatment, diagnosing hormone problems, and keeping testicular function and sperm production going during testosterone therapy.

Fertility PreservationLH/FSH StimulationTestosterone Support
Half-life:2-4 minutes

HCG

Sexual HealthBodybuilding

A hormone your body makes during pregnancy that acts like the hormone that tells the testes to produce testosterone and sperm. Used to treat low testosterone and fertility issues. Commonly used by men on testosterone therapy to keep their testes working and sperm production going, and by bodybuilders after steroid cycles to help their hormones recover.

Testosterone SupportFertility PreservationTesticular Function
Half-life:24-36 hours

Hexarelin

Bodybuilding

The most powerful growth hormone releasing peptide available — it triggers the biggest GH spike of any GHRP. Also uniquely protective for the heart, which has made it interesting for cardiac research. The downside is that its potency comes with more side effects than gentler options like Ipamorelin: it raises cortisol (stress hormone) and prolactin more than any other GHRP, and your body builds tolerance within 2-4 weeks, requiring cycling.

GH ReleaseCardioprotectionRecovery
Half-life:1.2 hours

HGH 191AA

BodybuildingAnti-Aging

Synthetic human growth hormone, identical to what your body naturally produces. FDA-approved for growth hormone deficiency and sold under brand names like Norditropin and Genotropin. Widely used in anti-aging medicine and bodybuilding because it helps build muscle, burn fat, speed up recovery, and improve skin and sleep quality. One of the most well-studied performance peptides available.

Muscle GrowthFat LossRecoveryAnti-AgingBone Density
Half-life:2-3 hours

HGH Fragment 176-191

Weight Loss

The original, unmodified version of the growth hormone fat-burning fragment — essentially the same concept as AOD-9604 but less stable and shorter-lasting. Contains the part of growth hormone responsible for fat metabolism without the parts that cause growth or blood sugar issues. Requires more frequent dosing than AOD-9604, and has even less clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness.

Fat MetabolismIGF-1 NeutralWeight Loss
Half-life:0.5-1 hours

HMG

Sexual HealthBodybuilding

A fertility medication made from hormones extracted from postmenopausal women's urine. It contains both the hormones that stimulate egg development in women and sperm production in men. Used for fertility treatment in both sexes. Some bodybuilders also use it after steroid cycles to help their natural hormone production bounce back.

Fertility TreatmentOvulation InductionSperm Production
Half-life:FSH component: 30 hours | LH component: 24 hours

Humanin

Anti-AgingCognitiveMetabolic

A 24-amino-acid peptide naturally produced by mitochondria. Related to MOTS-c but works differently. Protects cells against oxidative stress, cell death, and age-related damage by interacting with proteins involved in apoptosis and IGF signaling. One of the most studied peptides in longevity research, with evidence that levels decline in aging tissues.

CytoprotectionAnti-AgingInsulin Sensitivity
Half-life:0.5-4 hours (varies by analogue; HNG has extended activity)

Hyaluronic Acid

BeautyHealing

A naturally occurring substance found in connective tissue, skin, and joint fluid throughout the body. It holds moisture, lubricates joints, and adds volume to skin. Used in many forms: injectable fillers for facial volume, joint injections for arthritis, topical serums for skin hydration, and oral supplements. Different sizes (molecular weights) have different effects. People use it for wrinkles, joint pain, and skin hydration.

Joint LubricationSkin HydrationWound Healing
Half-life:Intra-articular: 24-72 hours (1-3 days) | Dermal filler: 4320-12960 hours (6-18 months) depending on cross-linking

IGF-1

BodybuildingAnti-AgingHealing

Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 — the 70-amino-acid peptide hormone that serves as the primary mediator of growth hormone's anabolic effects throughout the body. Produced mainly by the liver in response to GH signaling, IGF-1 drives protein synthesis, cell proliferation, and tissue growth. FDA-approved as Increlex for primary IGF-1 deficiency, with off-label use in bodybuilding and anti-aging for its potent anabolic and recovery-enhancing properties.

AnabolicRecovery
Half-life:10-20 minutes (unbound) | 12-15 hours (bound to IGFBP-3)

IGF-1 LR3

Bodybuilding

A supercharged version of IGF-1 (a key growth factor your liver produces in response to growth hormone). Modified to stay active much longer and avoid being deactivated by binding proteins. One of the most powerful muscle-building peptides available — it can actually create new muscle cells, not just make existing ones bigger. However, this potency comes with serious risks including dangerously low blood sugar and potential tumour promotion.

Muscle GrowthFat LossRecovery
Half-life:20-30 hours (compared to 12-15 minutes for native IGF-1)

IGF-DES

Bodybuilding

A naturally occurring short-acting form of IGF-1. Because it acts so briefly (20-30 minutes), it's used for targeted muscle growth by injecting directly into specific muscles you want to grow. Think of it as a precision tool compared to IGF-1 LR3's system-wide approach. The intense but brief signal activates muscle stem cells locally. Requires precise timing around workouts to be effective.

Localized Muscle GrowthSatellite Cell Activation
Half-life:20-30 minutes

Insulin

BodybuildingMetabolic

The most powerful muscle-building hormone in your body — it drives nutrients (sugar, amino acids) directly into muscle cells. FDA-approved and essential for diabetes management. In bodybuilding, it's used for extreme muscle growth by forcing nutrients into muscles after workouts. However, it is the single most dangerous compound used in performance enhancement — a dosing error can cause seizures, brain damage, coma, or death within hours. The margin between an effective dose and a lethal dose is very small.

Nutrient ShuttlingMuscle GrowthBlood Sugar Control
Half-life:Rapid-acting (Humalog/Novolog): 1 hour | Regular (Humulin R): 1.5 hours | Long-acting (Lantus): 24 hours

Ipamorelin

BodybuildingAnti-Aging

Considered the safest and most beginner-friendly growth hormone peptide. It stimulates your body to release more growth hormone without the unwanted side effects (hunger spikes, stress hormone increases) that come with older GH peptides. This clean profile makes it the most commonly prescribed GH peptide in anti-aging clinics. Usually the recommended starting point for anyone new to peptide therapy, and often combined with CJC-1295 for stronger results.

GH ReleaseRecoveryFat Loss
Half-life:2 hours

KissPeptin-10

Sexual Health

A short form of kisspeptin, the hormone that sits at the top of your reproductive hormone system. It directly tells the brain to release the signals that kick off the whole chain — FSH, LH, and ultimately testosterone or estrogen. Researchers are studying it as a possible alternative to other fertility hormones, with potentially fewer issues of the body 'getting used to' it.

HPG Axis StimulationFertilityHormone Regulation
Half-life:28 minutes (shorter than full-length kisspeptin-54)

Kisspeptin-54

Sexual HealthMetabolic

The full-length 54-amino-acid form of kisspeptin — the master regulator of reproductive hormones. More potent and longer-acting than Kisspeptin-10. Being studied for fertility treatment, low testosterone diagnosis, and reproductive disorders. May offer a more natural approach to stimulating reproductive hormone production than GnRH or HCG.

Reproductive Axis StimulationIVF Potential
Half-life:28 minutes (IV); longer subcutaneously

KPV

ImmuneHealingBeauty

A small peptide derived from a hormone that regulates skin color. It keeps the strong anti-inflammatory and immune-balancing effects of the full hormone without causing skin tanning or sexual side effects. One of the cleanest anti-inflammatory peptides available, and it works when taken by mouth, injected, or applied to the skin. People use it for gut inflammation, skin conditions, and general inflammation.

Anti-InflammatoryGut InflammationSkin Conditions
Half-life:0.5-1 hours

L-Carnitine

Weight LossMetabolic

A natural substance your body already makes that acts as a 'shuttle' to carry fat into your cells' energy factories (mitochondria) where it gets burned for fuel. Without enough carnitine, your body literally cannot burn long-chain fats for energy. One of the most popular and well-studied fat metabolism supplements available. Has FDA-approved forms for people with carnitine deficiency, and is widely available over the counter as a supplement.

Fat TransportExercise PerformanceMetabolic Support
Half-life:2-3 hours (injectable); oral bioavailability 15-25%

Lemon Bottle

BeautyWeight Loss

A cosmetic fat-dissolving injection from South Korea that is injected directly into stubborn fat areas (like a double chin or love handles) to break down fat cells locally. Contains vitamin B2, lecithin (a natural fat emulsifier), and bromelain (a pineapple enzyme). This is not a weight loss treatment — it's a targeted body contouring procedure, similar to CoolSculpting but using injections instead of cold. Requires multiple sessions.

Localized Fat ReductionCosmetic ContouringSkin Tightening
Half-life:Components metabolized within hours; visible effects develop over 2-4 weeks

Lipo-C

Weight LossMetabolic

A vitamin and amino acid injection commonly offered at weight loss clinics to support fat metabolism. Contains a mix of nutrients (methionine, inositol, choline, B vitamins, and L-carnitine) that help your liver process and export fat, and help your cells burn fat for energy. Think of it as a metabolic support shot — it's not a standalone weight loss treatment, but is used alongside diet and exercise to help your body process fat more efficiently.

Hepatic Fat ProcessingFat Oxidation SupportMetabolic Support
Half-life:Variable by component; effects are cumulative with regular dosing

Liraglutide

Weight LossMetabolic

A GLP-1 medication that mimics a natural gut hormone (97% similar to native GLP-1) and is the predecessor to semaglutide. FDA-approved for both type 2 diabetes (Victoza) and obesity (Saxenda). One of the most prescribed weight loss medications worldwide, with extensive long-term safety data including reduced risk of heart attack and stroke in diabetic patients.

Weight LossBlood Sugar ControlCardiovascular Protection
Half-life:13 hours

LL-37

ImmuneHealing

The body's main antimicrobial peptide — a natural part of the immune system that fights bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Beyond fighting germs, it promotes wound healing, helps regulate inflammation, and stimulates new blood vessel growth at injury sites. The body makes it in response to infection or tissue damage. People use it for wound healing and immune support.

AntimicrobialImmune ModulationWound Healing
Half-life:4-6 hours (varies by tissue environment)

Mazdutide

Weight Loss

A weight loss injection that suppresses appetite while also boosting your metabolism and helping your liver burn fat. Approved in China for obesity in 2024, with up to 14% body weight loss in trials. It targets two hormones — GLP-1 (which reduces hunger) and glucagon (which increases calorie burning and liver fat breakdown). Particularly promising for people with fatty liver disease alongside obesity.

Weight LossLiver Fat ReductionBlood Sugar Control
Half-life:144-192 hours (6-8 days)

Melanotan I

Beauty

A synthetic version of a hormone that triggers skin darkening. It selectively activates the receptors that produce protective dark pigment (eumelanin) and UV protection. Approved for a rare condition where sun exposure causes severe pain. More selective than Melanotan II — produces skin tanning without the sexual arousal or appetite suppression. People use it for tanning and sun protection.

Skin TanningUV Protection
Half-life:0.5 hours (melanin production effects persist for weeks after dosing)

Melanotan II

BeautySexual Health

A synthetic peptide that activates multiple hormone receptors at once. It produces skin tanning, increased sexual arousal, and reduced appetite simultaneously because it affects several receptor types. One of the most widely used peptides globally, primarily for cosmetic tanning and sexual enhancement, despite significant safety concerns.

Skin TanningSexual ArousalAppetite Suppression
Half-life:1 hour

Melatonin

SleepAnti-Aging

The main hormone your brain makes to control your sleep-wake cycle. It rises in response to darkness and helps you fall asleep. Also acts as a powerful antioxidant. Production drops with age, which can contribute to sleep problems in older adults. One of the most widely used supplements globally, available over-the-counter in the US.

Sleep RegulationAntioxidantImmune Support
Half-life:40-60 minutes (oral); injectable forms have shorter half-life

MGF

BodybuildingHealing

A natural 'first responder' peptide that your muscles produce when they're damaged by exercise. It activates dormant muscle stem cells and kickstarts the repair process. Think of it as the signal that tells your body to start rebuilding after a workout. The problem is it only lasts 5-7 minutes in the body, making it extremely impractical — which is why the longer-lasting PEG-MGF version exists.

Satellite Cell ActivationMuscle Repair
Half-life:5-7 minutes

MK-677

BodybuildingAnti-Aging

The only growth hormone booster you can take as a pill instead of injecting. Also known as Ibutamoren, it mimics the hunger hormone ghrelin to trigger GH release. Very popular because of the convenience — just swallow a capsule once daily. The major downside is a significant increase in appetite (you will feel hungry), and it stays active for 24 hours so the effects don't switch off. Studied for muscle wasting and bone density but never completed FDA approval.

GH ElevationAppetite IncreaseSleep Improvement
Half-life:24 hours

MOTS-C

MetabolicAnti-Aging

A small peptide that comes from your mitochondria (the energy factories in your cells). It acts like an 'exercise mimetic' — it can produce many of the metabolic benefits of working out without actually exercising, such as improving how your body handles sugar and burns fat. Discovered in 2015, it was one of the first signaling molecules found to be encoded by mitochondrial DNA rather than the main DNA in your cell nucleus.

Exercise MimeticInsulin SensitivityFat Oxidation
Half-life:4-8 hours

NAD+

Anti-AgingMetabolic

A molecule your body needs for hundreds of essential processes — making energy, repairing DNA, and regulating genes. Your NAD+ levels drop by about half between ages 40 and 60, which may contribute to aging and mitochondrial decline. People supplement with IV infusions, oral pills (NMN or NR), or injections to try to restore levels toward what they had when younger.

Cellular EnergySirtuin ActivationDNA RepairAnti-Aging
Half-life:IV: effects persist 48-72 hours (2-3 days) | Oral precursors (NMN/NR): 2-4 hours

Oxytocin

Sexual HealthCognitive

Often called the 'love hormone' — it plays a big role in bonding, trust, and feeling close to others. Your body makes it in the brain. It's also what makes the uterus contract during childbirth and triggers milk release when breastfeeding. The nasal spray form is increasingly used to support social connection and mood.

Social BondingLabor InductionAnxiety Reduction
Half-life:3-5 minutes (IV); intranasal effects persist longer due to sustained CNS absorption

P21 (P021)

CognitiveAnti-Aging

A small peptide derived from a brain-protecting factor (CNTF). Helps create new brain cells, protects existing neurons, and blocks the process that forms tangles in Alzheimer's disease. One of the few peptides specifically targeting brain degeneration, with potential for Alzheimer's disease and age-related cognitive decline.

NeurogenesisTau ReductionAlzheimer's Potential
Half-life:4-6 hours (limited pharmacokinetic data)

PEG-MGF

BodybuildingHealing

The practical, longer-lasting version of MGF. A protective coating (PEG) extends its life from 5 minutes to several hours, making it actually usable. Unlike native MGF which only works where you inject it, PEG-MGF spreads through your body and activates muscle stem cells in multiple muscle groups at once. The most realistic option for anyone interested in MGF's muscle repair benefits.

Satellite Cell ActivationSystemic Distribution
Half-life:Estimated 4-6 hours (compared to 5-7 minutes for native MGF)

Pentosan Polysulfate

HealingAnti-Aging

A compound derived from beechwood. FDA-approved orally (Elmiron) for bladder pain (interstitial cystitis), commonly used as an injection for joint and cartilage repair in osteoarthritis. One of the most popular peptide-adjacent therapies in sports medicine and regenerative clinics. Mimics natural compounds in cartilage to protect joints and reduce inflammation.

Cartilage RepairJoint LubricationAnti-Inflammatory
Half-life:20-27 hours

PT-141

Sexual Health

A peptide that boosts sexual desire by acting on the brain's arousal pathways. Unlike pills like Viagra that work on blood flow, this targets the desire and arousal signals in your brain. It's used to help premenopausal women who have low sexual desire.

Sexual DesireArousalFemale Sexual Function
Half-life:2.7 hours

Retatrutide

Weight Loss

The first weight loss drug to target three appetite and metabolism hormones at once (GIP, GLP-1, and glucagon). In early trials, people lost up to 24% of their body weight — the highest ever recorded for any weight loss medication. The third hormone target (glucagon) helps burn more calories and reduce liver fat, going beyond what current drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide can achieve. Still in clinical trials.

Weight LossEnergy ExpenditureLiver Fat ReductionBlood Sugar Control
Half-life:144 hours (6 days)

RG3

ImmuneAnti-Aging

Ginsenoside Rg3 — a bioactive compound derived from Panax ginseng. While not a peptide, it is frequently offered alongside peptide therapies in regenerative medicine clinics for its immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. One of the most active compounds in ginseng, with research demonstrating effects on blood vessel formation, immune cell activation, and cancer cell death.

Anti-InflammatoryAnti-AngiogenicImmune Enhancement
Half-life:18-36 hours (oral bioavailability is low, approximately 2-5%)

Selank

CognitiveImmune

A lab-made peptide based on a natural immune-signaling peptide. Developed in Russia to help with anxiety and mental sharpness. Works like anti-anxiety medications without the drowsiness or addiction risk, while also supporting brain health and immune function.

AnxiolyticCognitive EnhancementImmune Modulation
Half-life:2-3 minutes (rapidly metabolized, but CNS effects persist for hours)

Semaglutide

Weight Loss

The most widely prescribed weight loss medication in the world, sold as Wegovy and Ozempic. Works by dramatically reducing appetite and food cravings — most people report feeling full much faster and losing interest in snacking. In clinical trials, patients lost an average of 15-17% of their body weight. Also available as a daily pill (Rybelsus). Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, it also helps control blood sugar levels.

Weight LossAppetite SuppressionBlood Sugar ControlGastric EmptyingCardiovascular Benefit
Half-life:168 hours (7 days)

Semax

Cognitive

A lab-made peptide based on a brain hormone fragment. Developed in Russia and approved there for cognitive problems and brain injury recovery. Helps with thinking, memory, and sustained focus by boosting brain-nourishing factors in memory and learning areas.

Cognitive EnhancementNeuroprotectionFocus & Attention
Half-life:2-3 minutes (rapidly metabolized, but CNS effects persist for hours)

Sermorelin

Anti-AgingBodybuilding

One of the safest and most studied growth hormone peptides, with the longest track record in clinical use. It was actually FDA-approved (as Geref) for children with growth hormone deficiency before being discontinued for business reasons, not safety concerns. Like CJC-1295, it tells your pituitary to release its own growth hormone naturally. Popular in anti-aging medicine as a gentle, well-understood option.

GH ReleaseAnti-AgingRecoveryBody Composition
Half-life:10-20 minutes

SLU-PP-332

MetabolicBodybuilding

A compound developed at Washington University that activates estrogen-related receptor alpha. A next-generation exercise mimetic that enhances endurance and promotes slow-twitch muscle fiber transformation through a different mechanism than AICAR. Activates the same gene programs that endurance training induces, including mitochondrial growth and fat-burning metabolism.

Endurance EnhancementMitochondrial Biogenesis
Half-life:Estimated several hours (limited pharmacokinetic data)

SNAP-8

Beauty

A topical peptide marketed as 'Botox in a bottle' — it reduces expression wrinkles by partially blocking the signals that tell facial muscles to contract. A non-invasive alternative to Botox injections, though with milder effects. One of the most popular cosmetic peptides, widely used in premium anti-aging skincare. People use it to soften forehead lines, crow's feet, and frown lines without needles.

Wrinkle ReductionAnti-Aging
Half-life:Not applicable (topical, not systemically absorbed)

SS-31

Anti-Aging

A peptide that travels straight to your mitochondria (the energy factories inside your cells). It binds to a key molecule there and helps restore energy production while reducing oxidative stress. One of the most promising anti-aging compounds in development, with clinical trials underway for heart failure, Barth syndrome, and age-related decline in mitochondrial function.

Mitochondrial RepairEnergy ProductionAnti-Aging
Half-life:4 hours

Survodutide

Weight Loss

A weight loss injection being developed specifically for both obesity and fatty liver disease (MASH). It reduces appetite through one pathway while simultaneously telling your liver to burn its stored fat through another. This dual approach tackles the root cause (eating too much) and the downstream damage (fat build-up in the liver) at the same time. Still in clinical trials.

Liver Fat ReductionWeight LossEnergy Expenditure
Half-life:144 hours (6 days)

TB-500

HealingBodybuilding

A naturally occurring peptide found in nearly all human cells that helps cells move and rebuild. It plays a key role in tissue repair, new blood vessel growth, and calming inflammation. One of the most powerful wound-healing peptides identified, with strong results in heart, skin, and eye repair.

Tissue RepairAnti-InflammatoryAngiogenesisCardiac Repair
Half-life:2-3 hours

TB-500 + BPC-157 + GHK-Cu

Healing

A three-in-one healing combo that adds GHK-Cu (copper peptide) to the BPC-157 and TB-500 stack. GHK-Cu helps build collagen, remodel tissue, and fight oxidative damage, complementing the repair and anti-inflammatory effects of the other two. An advanced protocol for comprehensive tissue healing and recovery.

Comprehensive HealingCollagen Quality
Half-life:BPC-157: 4 hours | TB-500: 2-3 hours | GHK-Cu: 1-2 hours

Tesamorelin

Weight LossBodybuilding

The only growth hormone peptide with active FDA approval — sold as Egrifta for reducing dangerous belly fat (visceral fat) in HIV patients. It's especially effective at targeting the deep fat around your organs, which is the most harmful type. Widely used off-label by people wanting to improve body composition, reduce belly fat, and address fatty liver. In trials it reduced trunk fat by 15-18%.

Visceral Fat ReductionGH ReleaseLiver Health
Half-life:26-38 minutes

Tesamorelin + Ipamorelin

BodybuildingAnti-AgingWeight Loss

A popular combination pairing Tesamorelin (FDA-approved for certain conditions) with Ipamorelin to boost growth hormone. Favored for improving body composition, reducing belly fat, and anti-aging. Tesamorelin has proven effectiveness for visceral fat reduction, and Ipamorelin has a clean side-effect profile, making this a premium GH peptide protocol.

Visceral Fat TargetingBody Composition
Half-life:Tesamorelin: 26 minutes | Ipamorelin: 2 hours

Tesofensine

Weight Loss

A medication that blocks reuptake of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine — originally developed for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's but showed significant weight loss in clinical trials. Reduces appetite through brain signaling in appetite centers. A different approach than GLP-1 medications and other peptide-based weight loss treatments.

Weight LossAppetite SuppressionEnergy Expenditure
Half-life:192-216 hours (8-9 days)

Thymalin

ImmuneAnti-Aging

A peptide blend extracted from the thymus glands of young animals. The thymus is the gland that helps train your immune cells. This preparation supports thymus activity and helps your body mature T-cells — the immune cells that fight infections and cancer. It's been used in Russian medicine for decades, though Western clinical evidence is still limited.

Immune RestorationNK Cell Enhancement
Half-life:Variable (complex peptide mixture; estimated several hours)

Thymosin Alpha-1

Immune

A peptide your thymus gland naturally produces. It helps regulate T-cells and dendritic cells — key players in your immune system. One of the most clinically validated immune-modulating peptides. It's approved in over 35 countries (sold as Zadaxin) for treating hepatitis B and C and as an immune booster alongside cancer treatment. It's been used for decades in Asia and Europe.

Immune EnhancementAntiviral
Half-life:2 hours

Thymosin Beta-4

HealingAnti-AgingImmune

The full-length 43-amino-acid peptide naturally produced by the thymus gland — the parent molecule from which TB-500 is derived. Plays a key role in cell movement, tissue repair, wound healing, and reducing inflammation throughout the body. The full-length form may offer broader healing benefits than the TB-500 fragment alone.

Tissue RepairAnti-InflammatoryCardiac Repair
Half-life:1-2 hours

Thymulin

ImmuneAnti-Aging

A 9-amino-acid peptide naturally produced by the thymus gland that requires zinc to work properly. Distinct from Thymalin (which is a thymic extract mixture). Plays a central role in T-cell development, immune system regulation, and the zinc-thymulin axis that declines with aging. Thymulin levels decrease as the thymus shrinks with age, contributing to immune decline.

T-Cell MaturationImmune Restoration
Half-life:1-2 hours

Tirzepatide

Weight Loss

Sold as Mounjaro and Zepbound, this is one of the most effective weight loss medications available. It works by targeting two appetite hormones at once (GIP and GLP-1), making it more powerful than medications like semaglutide that only target one. People in clinical trials lost up to 22.5% of their body weight. Also FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, and improves cholesterol and blood fat levels.

Weight LossAppetite SuppressionBlood Sugar ControlLipid Improvement
Half-life:120 hours (5 days)

Vilon

ImmuneAnti-Aging

A synthetic two-amino-acid peptide (Lys-Glu) designed to support the thymus gland and immune system. Studied for immune modulation, thymic rejuvenation, and anti-aging. Part of the Khavinson peptide bioregulator family alongside Thymalin, Epithalon, and Cortexin. Designed to support T-cell development and restore age-related immune decline.

Immune ModulationT-Cell Support
Half-life:0.5-1 hours

VIP

ImmuneHealing

A natural peptide found throughout the body, especially in the nervous system, gut, and lungs. It widens blood vessels, calms inflammation, and helps balance the immune system. Most studied for chronic inflammatory conditions (like mold illness) and high blood pressure in the lungs, where it tones down excessive inflammatory signaling. People use it for CIRS, mold illness, and similar conditions.

VasodilationImmune BalancingNeuroprotection
Half-life:1-2 minutes (rapidly degraded by peptidases)

Vitamin B12

Metabolic

An essential vitamin required for DNA synthesis, nerve function (myelin maintenance), and red blood cell formation. Deficiency is common, particularly in vegans, the elderly, those on metformin or proton pump inhibitors, and individuals with pernicious anemia. Injectable forms bypass the complex gut absorption pathway, making them the treatment of choice for severe deficiency and malabsorption.

Nerve FunctionRed Blood Cell FormationEnergy Metabolism
Half-life:Hepatic stores last years; circulating methylcobalamin: 144 hours (6 days)

Recent Research