All peptides

70 peptides with research evidence across 12 health goals.

Preliminary

5-Amino-1MQ

5-Amino-1MQ is a small-molecule NNMT inhibitor studied in preclinical obesity and metabolic syndrome models for its ability to reduce fat mass and improve metabolic parameters. It has shown promise in rodent studies for promoting leanness without apparent toxicity at research doses.

Fat Loss
Moderate evidence

ACE-031

A recombinant fusion protein of the ActRIIB extracellular domain and human IgG1 Fc, developed by Acceleron Pharma. Acts as a circulating decoy receptor trapping myostatin, activin, and BMP9/10. Phase 2 DMD trial terminated in 2011 due to vascular safety signals (epistaxis, telangiectasias) from BMP9/10 cross-inhibition.

Muscle Growth
Preliminary

Adamax

Adamax is a more potent synthetic derivative of Semax incorporating an adamantane moiety to enhance CNS penetration and receptor binding affinity, studied for cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection. Preclinical data suggests superior BDNF-modulating properties compared to its parent compound Semax.

Cognition & Focus
Preliminary

Adipotide

A synthetic chimeric peptidomimetic (~2,611 Da) that destroys white adipose tissue vasculature. Its CKGGRAKDC homing motif binds prohibitin/annexin A2 on WAT blood vessels, while the D(KLAKLAK)₂ domain triggers mitochondrial apoptosis in those endothelial cells. Developed at UT MD Anderson; Phase 1 trial (NCT01262664) terminated with no published results.

Fat Loss
Preliminary

AHK-Cu

AHK-Cu is a copper-binding tripeptide studied for its ability to stimulate hair follicle proliferation and promote wound healing through copper-dependent enzymatic pathways. It is a less widely studied relative of GHK-Cu but shares overlapping mechanisms relevant to hair and skin biology.

Hair & Skin
Preliminary

AOD-9604

A modified growth hormone fragment investigated for lipolysis-related effects without full GH receptor profile. Originally placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 2023), then removed September 27, 2024 when the nominator withdrew. FDA still lists it under 'Other bulk drug substances that may present significant safety risks.' Regulatory status remains uncertain.

Fat Loss
Preliminary

ARA-290

ARA-290 is a non-hematopoietic erythropoietin-derived peptide engineered to activate the innate repair receptor without stimulating red blood cell production, studied for neuropathic pain and tissue repair. Clinical trials have explored its utility in sarcoidosis-related nerve damage and diabetic neuropathy.

Recovery & Healing
Animal data only

BAM-15

A mitochondrial protonophore uncoupler with EC₅₀ 1.4 μM (~7× more potent than DNP at 10.1 μM). Developed through a multi-institutional collaboration: Webster Santos at Virginia Tech and Kyle Hoehn at the University of Virginia (later UNSW Sydney). Selectively accumulates in lipid-rich tissues (liver, adipose). In mice, reversed diet-induced obesity without hyperthermia or reduced food intake. Continuum Biosciences (co-founded by Santos and Hoehn, 2017) is developing it.

Fat Loss
Animal data only

BPC-157

A pentadecapeptide derived from human gastric juice that has demonstrated tissue-protective and regenerative properties across multiple animal models.

Injury Rehab
Moderate evidence

Cagrilintide

Cagrilintide is a long-acting acylated amylin analog studied for weight management, acting on amylin receptors in the hypothalamus and brainstem to reduce food intake and promote satiety. It is being developed both as a monotherapy and in combination with semaglutide as CagriSema.

Fat Loss
Strong evidence

CagriSema

CagriSema is a fixed-dose co-formulation of cagrilintide (amylin analog) and semaglutide (GLP-1 agonist) that demonstrated superior weight loss to either component alone in Phase 3 REDEFINE trials. The combination targets complementary appetite-regulating pathways simultaneously.

Fat Loss
Moderate evidence

Cerebrolysin

Cerebrolysin is a standardized mixture of neuropeptides and amino acids derived from porcine brain tissue that is used clinically in some European and Asian countries for cognitive impairment, stroke rehabilitation, and neurodegenerative disorders. It contains low-molecular-weight peptides that can cross the blood-brain barrier.

Cognition & Focus
Moderate evidence

CJC-1295

A modified GHRH analog designed to prolong endogenous GH pulse support through albumin binding (DAC form). Originally placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 2023), then removed September 27, 2024 when the nominator withdrew. FDA still lists it under 'Other bulk drug substances that may present significant safety risks.' Regulatory status remains uncertain.

GH Boost
Moderate evidence

CJC-1295 (No DAC)

CJC-1295 without DAC (also called Modified GRF 1-29) is a GHRH analog with a shorter half-life than the DAC version, making it preferred for mimicking pulsatile physiological GH release when administered with a GHRP. It is widely used in research and wellness contexts for GH optimization.

GH Boost
Moderate evidence

Demoxytocin

A synthetic oxytocin analog (1-deamino-oxytocin) with N-terminal Cys replaced by β-mercaptopropionic acid (Mpa), conferring greater enzymatic stability. Synthesized 1960, clinically introduced by Sandoz in 1971 as a buccal tablet. Approved in Italy, Czech Republic, and Poland (Sandopart/Odeax/Sandopral) for labor induction and lactation support. Never FDA-approved. Crystal structure solved by Wood et al. (Science 1986, PDB 1XY1/1XY2).

Preliminary

DSIP

An endogenous neuropeptide candidate historically explored for sleep regulation and stress-response modulation. Placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 29, 2023) as 'Emideltide (DSIP).'

Sleep & Relaxation
Preliminary

Epithalon

A synthetic tetrapeptide associated with pineal peptide research and putative telomerase-related aging hypotheses. Placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 29, 2023) as 'Epitalon.'

Anti-Aging & Longevity
Moderate evidence

Follistatin-344

A 344-amino-acid glycoprotein that functions as a potent endogenous inhibitor of myostatin (GDF-8) and activin A/B. Tested clinically as an AAV1-delivered gene therapy vector (AAV1.CMV.FS344) for muscular dystrophy, and available as a recombinant peptide through unregulated channels.

Muscle Growth
Animal data only

FOX04-DRI

FOX04-DRI is a cell-penetrating D-retro-inverso peptide designed to selectively induce apoptosis in senescent cells by disrupting the interaction between FOXO4 and p53, which normally maintains senescent cell survival. Animal studies showed restoration of physical fitness, renal function, and fur density following treatment.

Anti-Aging & Longevity
Preliminary

GDF-8 Propeptide

GDF-8 propeptide is the natural inhibitory proregion of myostatin (GDF-8) that binds and neutralizes mature myostatin, studied for preventing muscle wasting in cachexia and muscular dystrophy models. It represents a biologically derived approach to myostatin inhibition with potential applications in muscle preservation.

Muscle Growth
Moderate evidence

GHK

GHK is the parent tripeptide that forms the copper-chelating complex GHK-Cu, studied for its own biological activities including gene expression modulation, tissue remodeling, and anti-inflammatory effects. It naturally declines with age and is found in plasma, saliva, and urine.

Hair & Skin
Moderate evidence

GHK-Cu

A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide widely studied in skin and hair biology and extracellular matrix remodeling. Note: FDA Category 2 applies to injectable routes only. Non-injectable administration (topical, nasal, oral) remains Category 1 (permitted for compounding).

Hair & Skin
Moderate evidence

GHRP-2

A potent synthetic GH secretagogue with human endocrine data demonstrating acute GH pulse stimulation.

GH Boost
Moderate evidence

GHRP-6

An early GH secretagogue peptide commonly associated with increased appetite alongside GH pulse stimulation.

GH Boost
Moderate evidence

Glutathione

Glutathione is the body's master endogenous antioxidant, a tripeptide that plays a central role in detoxification, immune function, and reduction of oxidative stress. Exogenous supplementation via injection or infusion is studied for supporting antioxidant status in contexts of chronic illness, aging, and metabolic stress.

Immune Support
Strong evidence

Gonadorelin

A synthetic decapeptide identical to endogenous gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH-I). FDA-approved historically as Factrel (diagnostic, 1978) and Lutrepulse (NDA 019687, hypothalamic amenorrhea, 1989) — both now discontinued. Currently available through compounding pharmacies as an HCG alternative.

Sexual Health
Strong evidence

HCG

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is an FDA-approved glycoprotein hormone used clinically to stimulate testosterone production in hypogonadal men, support fertility in women, and maintain testicular function during or after androgen therapy. It mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) at the gonadal level.

Sexual Health
Moderate evidence

Hexarelin

Hexarelin is a synthetic hexapeptide GHRP and one of the most potent GH secretagogues, also studied for cardioprotective properties through ghrelin receptor-independent mechanisms. It demonstrates GH-releasing activity comparable to GHRP-6 but with distinct cardiovascular effects observed in animal models.

GH Boost
Preliminary

HGH Fragment 176-191

HGH Fragment 176-191 is the C-terminal peptide fragment of human growth hormone specifically associated with lipolytic activity, studied for fat loss without the growth-promoting or insulin-desensitizing effects of intact HGH. It is distinct from AOD-9604 which is a modified version with additional structural changes.

Fat Loss
Strong evidence

HMG

A purified preparation of FSH and LH activity derived from urine of postmenopausal women. FDA-approved as Menopur (BLA 021663, 2004) and historically as Repronex (NDA 021047, 1999, now discontinued). Initial menotropin approval dates to 1975 (Pergonal). Used in assisted reproduction for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation.

Sexual Health
Animal data only

IGF-1 DES

A naturally occurring 67-amino-acid truncated variant of IGF-1 missing the N-terminal Gly-Pro-Glu tripeptide. First isolated from bovine colostrum and human brain. Approximately 10-fold more potent than full-length IGF-1 due to ~100-fold reduced binding to IGF binding proteins, resulting in greater free peptide bioavailability.

Muscle Growth
Moderate evidence

IGF-1 LR3

IGF-1 LR3 is a recombinant analog of insulin-like growth factor-1 engineered with an arginine substitution and 13 amino acid N-terminal extension to dramatically extend its plasma half-life and reduce IGF-binding protein affinity, enhancing its anabolic potency. It is studied for muscle hypertrophy, recovery acceleration, and tissue repair.

Muscle Growth
Moderate evidence

Ipamorelin

A selective ghrelin-receptor agonist studied for stimulating GH release with less prolactin/cortisol impact than older GHRPs. Originally placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 2023), then removed September 27, 2024 when the nominator withdrew. FDA still lists it under 'Other bulk drug substances that may present significant safety risks.' Regulatory status remains uncertain.

GH Boost
Moderate evidence

Kisspeptin-10

Kisspeptin-10 is the biologically active C-terminal decapeptide fragment of kisspeptin, a hypothalamic neuropeptide that acts as the master regulator of GnRH pulse generation and the HPG axis. It is studied for stimulating reproductive hormones and enhancing sexual motivation and arousal. Placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 29, 2023).

Sexual Health
Preliminary

KPV

A short melanocortin-derived tripeptide studied for anti-inflammatory signaling in gut and skin models. Placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 29, 2023).

Gut Health
Preliminary

LL-37

LL-37 is the only known human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, constitutively expressed in neutrophils and induced by infection and vitamin D signaling. It is studied for broad-spectrum antimicrobial defense, immune modulation, biofilm disruption, and potential roles in gut mucosal immunity. Placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 29, 2023) as 'Cathelicidin LL-37.'

Immune Support
Moderate evidence

Mazdutide

Mazdutide is a once-weekly dual GLP-1 receptor and glucagon receptor co-agonist in late-stage clinical development for obesity and type 2 diabetes, showing significant weight loss in Phase 3 trials predominantly conducted in the Asia-Pacific region. The glucagon component adds hepatic fat mobilization and energy expenditure to GLP-1-mediated appetite suppression.

Fat Loss
Moderate evidence

MK-677

An oral non-peptide ghrelin receptor agonist often discussed with GH peptides due to GH/IGF-1 stimulating effects. Placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 29, 2023) as 'Ibutamoren mesylate.'

GH Boost
Preliminary

MOTS-c

MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded within the 12S rRNA gene of mitochondrial DNA, studied for its roles in metabolic homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, exercise adaptation, and anti-aging. Circulating levels decline with age and are transiently elevated by exercise, suggesting a role as a metabolic hormone. Placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 29, 2023) as 'MOTs-C.'

Anti-Aging & Longevity
Moderate evidence

MT-2

Melanotan II is a synthetic analog of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) studied for skin tanning, erectile dysfunction, and reduced appetite through melanocortin receptor agonism. Notable for its significant side effect profile including nausea, facial flushing, and changes in existing moles. Placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 29, 2023) as 'Melanotan II.'

Sexual Health
Strong evidence

Myostatin

The body's primary negative regulator of skeletal muscle mass — a TGF-β superfamily member encoded by the MSTN gene. Its amino acid sequence is 100% conserved across humans, mice, rats, chickens, and pigs. This is a research reagent, not a therapeutic; myostatin inhibitors (follistatin, trevogrumab) are the therapeutic approach.

Moderate evidence

NAD+

NAD+ is a critical coenzyme present in all living cells, central to cellular energy metabolism, DNA repair, and sirtuin-mediated longevity pathways. Circulating and intracellular NAD+ levels decline with age, and parenteral supplementation is studied for reversing age-related metabolic decline and improving mitochondrial function.

Anti-Aging & Longevity
Strong evidence

Orforglipron

A non-peptide oral GLP-1 receptor agonist discovered by Chugai Pharmaceutical and licensed to Eli Lilly in 2018. The first small-molecule GLP-1 agonist to reach Phase 3. ATTAIN-1 (NCT05869903, 3,127 adults, 72 weeks) showed 12.4% placebo-subtracted weight loss at 36 mg (efficacy estimand) or 11.2% vs 2.1% placebo (treatment-regimen estimand). NDA submitted to FDA December 2025.

Fat Loss
Preliminary

OS-01

A topical senomorphic peptide developed by OneSkin Inc. (San Francisco). Reduces senescent cell burden by up to 50% (SA-β-gal+ cells) and reversed epigenetic age by 2.6 years in 79-year-old ex vivo skin via the proprietary MolClock assay (Zonari et al., npj Aging 2023). INCI name: Decapeptide-52. Not a senolytic — it modulates senescent cell behavior rather than killing them.

Hair & Skin
Strong evidence

Oxytocin

Oxytocin is an FDA-approved hypothalamic neuropeptide hormone used clinically for obstetric indications that is also studied for its roles in social bonding, anxiety reduction, sexual function, and sleep quality through intranasal administration. It is produced in the paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei and acts both peripherally and centrally.

Sexual Health
Animal data only

P21

P21 is a tetrapeptide derived from the ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) binding interface, studied in animal models for neurogenesis stimulation, memory enhancement, and potential Alzheimer's disease prevention. It has shown the ability to increase BDNF levels and reduce tau hyperphosphorylation in rodent models.

Cognition & Focus
Preliminary

PE-22-28

PE-22-28 is a synthetic hexapeptide analog of spadin, itself derived from the propeptide of sortilin, studied as an antidepressant and cognitive enhancer that targets TREK-1 potassium channels in the CNS. Animal studies suggest rapid antidepressant-like effects and potential cognitive benefits.

Cognition & Focus
Preliminary

PEG-MGF

PEG-MGF is a PEGylated synthetic analog of mechano growth factor (MGF), an IGF-1 splice variant produced locally in response to mechanical loading, engineered with polyethylene glycol attachment to extend its in vivo half-life from minutes to days. It is studied for skeletal muscle repair, hypertrophy, and satellite cell activation. Placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 29, 2023) as 'Mechano growth factor pegylated (PEG-MGF).'

Muscle Growth
Preliminary

Pinealon

Pinealon is a synthetic tripeptide (Glu-Asp-Arg) derived from the pineal gland, studied for neuroprotective effects, circadian rhythm regulation, and cognitive performance in animal models and limited clinical observations in Eastern European research. It is related to the family of short peptide bioregulators developed by the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation.

Sleep & Relaxation
Strong evidence

PT-141

A melanocortin receptor agonist approved as bremelanotide for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women.

Sexual Health
Preliminary

Retatrutide

An investigational triple agonist (GLP-1/GIP/glucagon) with large early-stage weight-loss signals in phase 2 studies.

Fat Loss
Moderate evidence

Selank

A synthetic tuftsin-derived peptide studied for anxiolytic and cognitive effects, typically via intranasal delivery. Was placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 2023 – September 2024) before being removed when the nominator withdrew. FDA continues to flag safety concerns under a separate listing.

Cognition & Focus
Strong evidence

Semaglutide

A long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist with robust randomized evidence for glycemic control and body-weight reduction.

Fat Loss
Moderate evidence

Semax

A synthetic ACTH fragment analog studied in Russia for neurocognitive and cerebrovascular contexts. Placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 29, 2023) as 'Semax (heptapeptide).'

Cognition & Focus
Strong evidence

Sermorelin

FDA-approved as GEREF for diagnosis and treatment of growth hormone deficiency in children (NDA 20-443, approved September 26, 1997). Voluntarily withdrawn from market June 2009 for commercial reasons — not for safety or efficacy concerns (Federal Register 78 FR 14095, March 4, 2013). Remains compoundable under Section 503A.

GH Boost
Animal data only

SLU-PP-332

A small-molecule pan-agonist of estrogen-related receptors (ERRα/β/γ) developed at Washington University/St. Louis College of Pharmacy by Thomas Burris. EC₅₀: ERRα ~98 nM, ERRβ ~230 nM, ERRγ ~430 nM (~2- to 4-fold selective for ERRα depending on subtype). CAS: 303760-60-3. Not orally bioavailable — administered IP in animal studies. Successor compound SLU-PP-915 was developed for oral delivery.

Fat Loss
Preliminary

Snap-8

Snap-8 is a synthetic octapeptide (acetyl octapeptide-3) studied as a topical cosmetic active for reducing the appearance of expression lines by targeting the SNARE protein complex involved in neuromuscular vesicle docking. It is marketed as a peptide alternative to botulinum toxin for cosmetic wrinkle reduction.

Hair & Skin
Strong evidence

Somatropin

Somatropin is FDA-approved recombinant human growth hormone identical in sequence to endogenous pituitary GH, used clinically for GH deficiency, Turner syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and other approved indications. In wellness and performance contexts it is studied for body composition, anti-aging, and recovery, though off-label use raises significant regulatory and safety considerations.

GH Boost
Moderate evidence

SS-31

SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a synthetic mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide that selectively concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane, studied for mitochondrial dysfunction, cardiomyopathy, and age-related diseases. It has advanced to Phase 2/3 clinical trials for Barth syndrome cardiomyopathy.

Anti-Aging & Longevity
Moderate evidence

Survodutide

Survodutide is a dual GLP-1 receptor and glucagon receptor co-agonist in Phase 3 clinical trials for obesity and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH/NASH), showing significant reductions in body weight and liver fat content in Phase 2 results. It represents the next generation of metabolic peptide therapeutics with a dual mechanism.

Fat Loss
Animal data only

TB-500

A synthetic fragment associated with thymosin beta-4 signaling that is studied for migration, remodeling, and tissue repair in preclinical injury models.

Recovery & Healing
Strong evidence

Tesamorelin

A stabilized GHRH analog approved for reduction of excess visceral fat in HIV-associated lipodystrophy.

GH Boost
Moderate evidence

Tesofensine

A triple monoamine reuptake inhibitor (SERT IC₅₀ 11 nM, NET 1.7 nM, DAT 65 nM) of the phenyltropane family, originally developed by NeuroSearch for neurodegeneration. Acquired by Saniona (2014), sublicensed to Medix for Mexico/Argentina (2016). Phase 2: 0.5 mg achieved 9.2% placebo-subtracted weight loss (Astrup et al., Lancet 2008). Viking Phase 3 (372 patients, 24 weeks) completed Dec 2018. COFEPRIS favorable opinion Feb 2023 but approval withheld Nov 2024.

Fat Loss
Moderate evidence

Thymalin

Thymalin is a thymic peptide preparation studied for immune system restoration and modulation, particularly in aging-related immune decline (immunosenescence) and post-illness immune reconstitution. It has been investigated in longitudinal anti-aging studies in Eastern European research literature with reported improvements in immune biomarkers.

Immune Support
Moderate evidence

Thymosin Alpha-1

An immunomodulatory peptide approved in over 35 countries (as Zadaxin) for hepatitis B/C and as an immune adjunct. Not FDA-approved in the US. Was placed on FDA Category 2 list (September 2023 – September 2024) before being removed when the nominator withdrew. Current regulatory status is in flux; FDA continues to flag safety concerns.

Immune Support
Strong evidence

Tirzepatide

A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist with strong evidence for substantial weight loss and glycemic improvement in phase 3 trials.

Fat Loss
Moderate evidence

Trevogrumab

A fully human IgG4 monoclonal antibody (KD = 24 pM) that selectively neutralizes myostatin without cross-reacting with GDF-11 or activin A. Developed by Regeneron; currently in active Phase 2 trials including COURAGE (NCT06299098) combining with semaglutide for muscle-preserving weight loss in obesity.

Muscle Growth
Strong evidence

Triptorelin

A synthetic GnRH agonist 131× more potent than native GnRH due to D-Trp⁶ substitution. FDA-approved as Trelstar (NDA 020715, 2000) for advanced prostate cancer and as Triptodur for central precocious puberty. Available in 1-, 3-, and 6-month depot formulations.

Preliminary

Vilon

Vilon is a synthetic dipeptide (Lys-Glu) derived from the thymus gland, studied as an immune-regulatory bioregulator that promotes thymic function restoration and has been investigated in the same anti-aging peptide bioregulator research tradition as Epithalon and Thymalin. It represents one of the shortest bioactive peptides studied for immune modulation.

Immune Support
Preliminary

VIP

Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) is an endogenous 28-amino acid neuropeptide with potent anti-inflammatory, vasodilatory, and immunomodulatory properties, studied most notably in the context of Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Intranasal delivery targets pulmonary and systemic anti-inflammatory pathways.

Immune Support