The trend of injecting themselves with peptides has increased rapidly among people in America. These injections have not been approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). Social media influencers, celebs and wellness experts are promoting that these peptides help in increasing muscle mass, keeping skin young and helping to live longer.

Recently, the popularity of weight loss drugs called GLP-1 has increased in America, but the peptides sold on the internet are different and there is no complete information about their effect on the human body. Several peptides such as BPC-157 and TB-500 are banned by the International Games Federation for doping.

What do doctors say on this?

Dr. Eric Topal, director of the Scripps Research Translation Institute (SRTI), says there is no evidence for these peptides. They have not received sufficient clinical trials. Still people are taking them. Among those promoting this trend was Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is also included. Kennedy is popular among Americans who distrust health experts, pharmaceutical companies and conventional medicine.

Kennedy has promised to end the FDA’s fight against peptides. Kennedy’s friends and associates, such as biohacker and longevity expert Gary Breka, sell peptide injectables, patches, and nasal sprays at prices ranging from $350 to $600.

What are peptides?

Peptides are small parts of protein and activate growth, metabolism and healing hormones in the body. Some peptides, such as insulin and human growth hormone, are FDA approved, but many peptides sold online are not approved and are illegal to sell as drugs.

Still, celebs and influencers are promoting them. For example, Joe Rogan used BPC-157 and said that his elbow tendonitis resolved in two weeks. Texas company Ways 2 Well sells peptides, stem cells and other alternative treatments. The company offers a peptide consult for $99 and ships a complete kit, including dosing and injections, in a package.

Dr. Topal considers it a part of the world of expensive and dangerous wellness clinics. Peptides are often promoted as a natural alternative to modern medicine, but their safety is not fully proven.