Plain-English profiles for 60+ peptides. Each page opens with a 30-second read, the honest take on what the evidence shows, FDA status, and a "Want to go deeper?" section for the technical detail.
These peptides or peptide-based drugs have received FDA approval for specific indications. Approval is limited to the stated indication, off-label use is a separate consideration.
Growth hormone-releasing hormone analog approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Stimulates endogenous pituitary GH release. Only FDA-approved indication is reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV patients.
FDA-approved as Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. Acts on melanocortin-4 receptors in the CNS, a unique mechanism distinct from vascular-acting agents.
The most established GLP-1 receptor agonist. FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic, Rybelsus) and chronic weight management (Wegovy). Five approved formulations including injectable and oral options.
First-in-class dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist. FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro) and chronic weight management (Zepbound). Beat semaglutide head-to-head in the SURMOUNT-5 trial.
Recombinant human growth hormone, FDA-approved for pediatric and adult growth hormone deficiency, Turner syndrome, Prader-Willi, AIDS-associated wasting, and other indications. A prescription drug, not a research peptide. Federally regulated under 21 U.S.C. §333(e).
FDA-approved bacterial protein neurotoxin used for cosmetic glabellar lines, chronic migraine, hyperhidrosis, overactive bladder, cervical dystonia, and several other indications. A prescription medical procedure performed by clinicians.
FDA-approved as Scenesse for adults with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a rare genetic light-sensitivity disorder. Distinct from Melanotan II, different molecule, different safety profile, different regulatory status.
FDA-approved for fertility (ovulation induction, assisted reproduction) and male hypogonadism. Mimics LH at LHCG receptors. Distinct from "hCG diet" weight-loss claims, which the FDA has explicitly warned against as fraudulent.
FDA-approved fertility medication containing both FSH and LH activity (purified from postmenopausal urine). Used in IVF and ovulation induction protocols. Prescription drug administered under fertility-clinic supervision.
FDA-approved as injectable Pitocin for labor induction and postpartum bleeding control. Compounded intranasal versions are sold for "social bonding" claims, where the evidence is much weaker and intranasal CNS delivery is contested.
FDA-approved as a prescription drug (Carnitor) for primary and secondary carnitine deficiency. Widely sold as a supplement for fat metabolism and exercise performance, where evidence is much weaker and TMAO-related cardiovascular concerns have emerged.
Next-generation GLP-1 class compounds currently in clinical trials. Not yet FDA-approved. See the GLP-1 Comparison Hub for side-by-side trial data.
First-in-class triple receptor agonist. Phase 2 data showed 28.7% mean body weight loss at 48 weeks, the highest recorded for any anti-obesity agent. Phase 3 trials ongoing with potential 2027-28 approval.
A dual glucagon and GLP-1 receptor agonist with strong Phase 2 data in obesity and a parallel program in MASH (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis). The glucagon arm is what differentiates the program from semaglutide and tirzepatide.
An oxyntomodulin-derived dual GLP-1/glucagon agonist. Approved in China in 2025 for weight management. The first major GLP-1-class drug to clear regulatory review in China, with Phase 3 data showing competitive weight loss.
A long-acting analog of the pancreatic hormone amylin, in clinical development as a weight-loss agent. Studied alone but most of the attention is on combination with semaglutide (CagriSema).
The combination of cagrilintide and semaglutide, in Phase 3 REDEFINE trials. Mechanistic rationale: amylin and GLP-1 act through complementary appetite-regulation pathways. Phase 3 readouts have been mixed relative to early expectations.
Peptides studied for their potential roles in wound healing, tissue regeneration, and injury recovery. None in this category are FDA-approved for these applications.
A 15-amino-acid peptide derived from human gastric juice. Extensively studied in preclinical models for tissue repair, gut healing, and anti-inflammatory effects. FDA Category 2 listed (Sept 2023). Only ~3 small published human studies.
A synthetic fragment of Thymosin Beta-4, a naturally occurring protein involved in cell migration, blood vessel formation, and wound healing. Primarily studied in preclinical and veterinary research contexts.
A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma. Studied for skin regeneration, collagen synthesis, wound healing, and anti-aging applications. Plasma levels decline significantly with age.
FDA-approved for interstitial cystitis (bladder pain). A semi-synthetic sulfated polysaccharide studied for joint health and osteoarthritis applications in veterinary and human research.
Peptides that stimulate the body's natural growth hormone production through GHRH receptor agonism or ghrelin receptor activation.
The most commonly studied GH secretagogue combination. Research suggests 2-3x GH elevation versus single-peptide use via complementary pituitary stimulation pathways. Clinical development was discontinued before completing full efficacy trials.
A modified 29-amino acid analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). Stimulates pituitary GH release with a short half-life (~30 min), producing pulsatile GH secretion that more closely mimics natural physiology.
A selective growth hormone secretagogue that acts on ghrelin receptors. Unlike GHRP-6 or GHRP-2, ipamorelin does not significantly elevate cortisol or prolactin at studied doses, giving it a cleaner selectivity profile.
A modified fragment of the C-terminus of human growth hormone (amino acids 176-191). Studied for its potential lipolytic (fat-burning) effects without the growth-promoting or diabetogenic effects of full GH.
A 29-amino-acid GHRH analog originally FDA-approved as Geref for pediatric GH deficiency diagnosis and short-term treatment, withdrawn for commercial reasons in 2008. Now produced through compounding pharmacies for off-label adult use, where most of the conversation is happening.
A growth hormone-releasing peptide approved in Japan as a diagnostic agent for GH deficiency. Studied as a research compound for stimulating endogenous GH release. Distinct from GHRP-6 in selectivity profile.
One of the original ghrelin-mimetic peptides studied as a GH secretagogue. Notable for substantial appetite-stimulating effects (more than newer agents) and a less selective receptor profile than ipamorelin.
A potent GHRP studied for both GH-releasing effects and direct cardiac actions through CD36. Notable for receptor desensitization with chronic use, which led research interest to pivot toward less-prone alternatives.
Insulin-like growth factor analogs and mechano-growth factor variants studied for muscle growth and tissue repair signaling. None FDA-approved for these uses, and concerns about IGF/cancer biology are unresolved.
A long-acting IGF-1 analog with reduced binding to IGF binding proteins, giving it a much longer half-life than native IGF-1. Studied in research and bodybuilding contexts. Higher cancer-risk concerns than native IGF-1 due to sustained tissue exposure.
An N-terminally truncated IGF-1 variant with much weaker IGFBP binding, producing more potent local action and a shorter half-life than IGF-1 LR3. Sometimes pitched as more "site-targeted" but the tissue-selectivity claim is overstated.
A splice variant of IGF-1 produced in muscle in response to mechanical loading. Studied for satellite-cell activation and muscle repair. Native MGF has a very short half-life, which led to interest in PEGylated versions.
A polyethylene glycol-conjugated version of MGF designed to extend the very short half-life of native MGF. Studied as a "longer-lasting MGF" for muscle repair. The PEGylation that extends half-life also changes the pharmacology in important ways.
Compounds studied for fat loss, exercise mimicry, and metabolic effects. Includes preclinical-only candidates and compounded weight-loss-clinic injections. Most are not FDA-approved for these uses.
A small-molecule ERR (estrogen-related receptor) agonist described as an "exercise in a pill" candidate in preclinical studies. Mouse data showed dramatic endurance and metabolic effects. Human trials have not started.
An AMPK activator famous for the 2008 Salk Institute paper showing untrained mice given AICAR ran 44% longer on treadmills. WADA-banned. Has not produced decisive human-trial efficacy in cardiac or metabolic indications.
A nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) inhibitor with promising preclinical data on adipose tissue and metabolic flexibility. Sold in research-peptide channels despite the absence of human safety data. The compounded supply chain has substantial quality concerns.
A weight-loss-clinic compounded injection containing methionine, inositol, choline ("MIC"), and B-vitamins. Marketed for fat loss and energy. The evidence base for the injection itself (separate from the surrounding weight-loss program) is essentially absent.
Not a peptide — a small-molecule vitamin — but shows up constantly in peptide-research and longevity-clinic protocols. Reliably corrects diagnosed B12 deficiency (the strongest, FDA-approved use case). Wellness-shot use in non-deficient people has weaker evidence than the marketing implies. Test your B12 level first.
Peptides studied for immune modulation, anti-inflammatory signaling, and thymic function.
A 28-amino acid thymic peptide approved in over 30 countries (not FDA-approved in the US) for hepatitis B and C and as an immune adjuvant. Studied for immune restoration, vaccine enhancement, and anti-tumor effects.
A tripeptide fragment of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Studied for anti-inflammatory effects via NF-κB signaling pathway inhibition. Research interest in gut inflammation and mucosal healing applications.
The only human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide. Studied for direct microbial killing and immune modulation. Concerns include autoimmune-disease activation potential, which has been documented in rosacea, psoriasis, and lupus contexts.
An 11-amino-acid peptide derived from the EPO molecule, designed to retain tissue-protective signaling without the red-blood-cell-stimulating effect. In clinical trials for sarcoidosis-related small fiber neuropathy and diabetic neuropathy.
A polypeptide complex extracted from calf thymus, approved in Russia and several CIS countries as an immunomodulator. Studied at the Khavinson Institute (St. Petersburg) for elderly immune function and longevity. Limited Western trials.
Peptides studied for cognitive enhancement, neuroprotective effects, and neurological function.
A synthetic analog of the immunomodulatory peptide tuftsin, developed at the Institute of Molecular Genetics (Russia). Approved in Russia as an anxiolytic. Studied for anti-anxiety effects, cognitive enhancement, and immune modulation.
A synthetic heptapeptide analog of ACTH(4-10), developed in Russia and approved there for stroke recovery and cognitive disorders. Studied for neuroprotection, BDNF modulation, and cognitive enhancement.
A small peptide derivative of angiotensin IV. Studied as an HGF/c-Met signaling agonist with potential procognitive effects. Early-stage research only, described as extremely potent in animal models of cognitive decline.
A complex of neuropeptides and amino acids derived from porcine brain tissue. Approved in over 60 countries for stroke, dementia, and traumatic brain injury. Not FDA-approved. Most positive trials are from countries where the drug is already approved, raising publication-bias concerns.
A 28-amino-acid neuropeptide with broad signaling roles. The synthetic version (aviptadil) is in clinical trials for sarcoidosis and pulmonary indications. Increasingly used off-label intranasally for "biotoxin illness" and CIRS protocols, where the evidence is far weaker than the marketing implies.
A short tripeptide bioregulator from the Khavinson Institute (St. Petersburg). Marketed as a pineal-targeted cognitive and longevity peptide. Russian-published preclinical data; very limited Western trial replication.
Peptides studied for anti-aging, telomere biology, mitochondrial function, and cellular senescence.
A synthetic tetrapeptide studied for its potential to activate telomerase and influence pineal gland function. Based on the Epithalamin research by Khavinson. Primarily preclinical data; limited human trial evidence.
A mitochondria-derived peptide described as an "exercise mimetic." Studied for AMPK activation, metabolic regulation, insulin sensitivity, and exercise performance. Discovered in 2015 by Dr. Pinchas Cohen's lab at USC.
A mitochondria-targeting tetrapeptide that stabilizes cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane. In clinical trials for Barth syndrome and primary mitochondrial myopathy. Studied for age-related mitochondrial dysfunction.
A coenzyme essential to cellular metabolism, DNA repair, and sirtuin activation (included for completeness as a peptide-adjacent compound). NAD+ levels decline with age, driving interest in supplementation and IV protocols.
The body's principal intracellular antioxidant. Sold at IV-push and IV-drip clinics for "detox," skin lightening, and general wellness, where the evidence base is much weaker than the marketing implies. Oral bioavailability is poor; IV delivery is what most clinic claims rest on.
Peptides studied for sexual function, sleep architecture, and hypothalamic-pituitary hormonal signaling.
Master regulator of the reproductive hormone axis. Drives GnRH release and downstream LH/FSH/sex steroid production. Studied at Imperial College London in human trials for HSDD (both sexes), hypothalamic amenorrhea, male hypogonadism, and IVF applications.
A nonapeptide first isolated in 1977 from rabbit cerebral venous blood during induced sleep. Studied for promotion of slow-wave (delta) sleep, normalization of disrupted sleep architecture, HPA axis modulation, and adjunctive use in chronic pain and withdrawal-related sleep disruption.
A pineal hormone regulating circadian rhythm. Sold OTC as a supplement in the US (where supplement-quality concerns and overdosing in pediatric products have been flagged), prescription-only in much of Europe and Asia. Best evidence is for circadian-rhythm shifts, not general sleep.
Peptides marketed in the skincare and aesthetics space. Most cosmetic-peptide claims rest on much weaker evidence than the marketing implies. The strongest evidence in this category is still GHK-Cu (covered in Tissue Repair).
We cover these because they are widely searched and people deserve honest information. We do not cover them because the use case is supported. Each page leads with a prominent safety warning. Anyone considering compounds in this section should talk to a licensed clinician first.
An early-stage experimental peptide derived from a p53/HDM-2 binding region. Studied in cell-culture and animal cancer models. Not a cancer treatment. Anyone considering this for an actual cancer diagnosis should be working with an oncology team and clinical-trial enrollment, not informal supply.
A synthetic melanocortin agonist sold online as an unregulated tanning peptide. The UK MHRA, Australia TGA, and FDA have all warned consumers against it. Documented adverse events include priapism, melanoma case reports, and severe GI/cardiovascular effects.
Pre-mixed peptide combinations commonly referenced in the research community. Important: while individual components may have published research, these specific blends have NOT been studied as combined formulations in clinical trials.
The most widely recognized peptide "stack." Combines two tissue-repair peptides with complementary mechanisms. BPC-157 (angiogenesis, nitric oxide) and TB-500 (cell migration, actin regulation). No published research on the specific combination.
A skin and tissue-focused combination. GHK-Cu is the primary skin-targeted component (collagen synthesis, elastin production), supported by BPC-157 and TB-500 for tissue repair. No published research on this specific blend.
Adds KPV (anti-inflammatory tripeptide, fragment of α-MSH) to the GLOW base. KPV inhibits NF-κB signaling, providing an anti-inflammatory component. No published research on this specific blend formulation.
The Russian-tradition nootropic stack. Semax for cognitive lift via BDNF/NGF; Selank for anxiolytic effect via GABA and serotonergic pathways. Both intranasal, same Khavinson research lineage, complementary mechanisms. No published research on the specific combination.