What are “peptides” and should you try them?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids. They are basically small proteins. [The FDA defines peptides as molecules containing up to 40 amino acids.]
Many of our hormones such as insulin, growth hormone and parathyroid hormone are peptides, as are many FDA-approved drugs such as the popular weight-loss agent Ozempic, Linzess (for constipation), Lupron (to treat prostate cancer) and Forteo (to treat osteoporosis).
The difference between FDA-approved peptide agents and these newly accepted peptides is that the marketed drugs underwent trials that showed that they worked for the approved indication and that they were safe. The six new peptides have very limited or no studies showing either benefit or safety. That is why the FDA staff recommended against approval.
The six new agents that are eligible to be sold are:
BPC-157, marketed for tendon and muscle healing, injury recovery and gastrointestinal inflammation
KPV, marketed for wound healing and inflammation
TB-500, sold for wound healing and muscle recovery
MOTS-c marketed for obesity, osteoporosis, exercise performance and longevity
Semax – for cognition and general neurologic recovery
Epitalon – for longevity, anti-aging
Note that most peptides are broken down in the stomach and so must be injected or sometimes used as nasal sprays. Note also that of the six listed peptides, NONE have any good data showing they do anything. The reported results are all testimonials, with none compared to placebos.
Are they safe? We really do not know, because no one tracks use. There have been individual reports of harm, but whether these are exceptions or just the tip of the iceberg is a guess.
What are they good for? They are clearly good for the compounding pharmacies selling them and for the “influencers” who push them. The “wellness” industry worldwide is a trillion-dollar business, and for the most part made up of modern-day snake-oil salesmen who prey on the gullible. You need no credentials or expertise to be an influncer.
Don’t use these products.
Tell your federal senators and representatives that anything sold to the public as a cure should undergo adequate trials to prove safety and efficacy.
What is required of Merck and Moderna should be applied to these products as well.
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