The Peptide Guide

Semaglutide

Also known as: Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus

An FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist used for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. One of the most well-studied peptides available.

Tirzepatide

Also known as: Mounjaro, Zepbound

A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist that has shown even greater weight loss results than semaglutide in head-to-head trials.

Investigational (Phase 3)

Retatrutide

Also known as: LY-3437943

An investigational triple-agonist peptide from Eli Lilly that targets GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors at the same time. In clinical trials, it has produced the highest weight loss numbers ever recorded for an obesity drug.

Liraglutide

Also known as: Saxenda, Victoza

An FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist available since 2010. Victoza is used for type 2 diabetes and Saxenda for weight loss. A generic version launched in 2025, making it the first generic GLP-1 for weight management.

Investigational (Phase 3)

Survodutide

Also known as: BI 456906

A dual GLP-1 and glucagon receptor agonist developed by Boehringer Ingelheim. It has shown strong results for both weight loss and fatty liver disease (MASH), and received FDA Breakthrough Therapy designation for MASH. Phase 3 results expected in 2026.

FDA-Approved (April 2026)

Orforglipron

Also known as: Foundayo, LY3502970

The first oral GLP-1 pill that can be taken at any time of day without food or water restrictions. FDA-approved on April 1, 2026 as Foundayo for weight management. A major step forward for people who want GLP-1 benefits without injections.

Exenatide

Also known as: Byetta, Bydureon, Bydureon BCise

One of the first GLP-1 receptor agonists, FDA-approved since 2005. Originally derived from Gila monster saliva. Available as twice-daily injections (Byetta) or once-weekly (Bydureon BCise). An older option that's been largely overtaken by semaglutide and tirzepatide.

Tissue Repair

BPC-157

Also known as: Body Protection Compound-157

A synthetic peptide derived from human gastric juice, studied primarily in animal models for its regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. Not FDA-approved.

TB-500

Also known as: Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment, TB4-Frag, Ac-LKKTETQ

A synthetic 7-amino-acid fragment of thymosin beta-4, corresponding to the active region responsible for cell migration and wound healing. Widely used in anti-aging and sports recovery, though human clinical data is very limited. Previously banned from compounding but expected to return to legal status in 2026.

Compounded (Not FDA-Approved as Drug)

GHK-Cu

Also known as: Copper Peptide, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine Copper

A naturally occurring tripeptide that binds copper ions, found in human blood plasma, saliva, and urine. Known for its skin-regenerating and wound-healing properties. Available as both topical cosmetic products and injectable formulations through compounding pharmacies.

KPV

Also known as: Lysine-Proline-Valine, Alpha-MSH Fragment

A tripeptide fragment of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) with strong anti-inflammatory properties. Particularly studied for gut health and inflammatory bowel conditions. Available orally, topically, and by injection.

FDA-Approved (for Interstitial Cystitis)

Pentosan Polysulfate

Also known as: PPS, Elmiron

An FDA-approved oral medication (Elmiron) for interstitial cystitis (painful bladder syndrome). Also being studied as an injectable for osteoarthritis, where it may act as a disease-modifying agent. Carries an important warning about potential eye damage with long-term use.

BPC-157 Arginate

Also known as: BPC-157 Arginine Salt, Pentadeca Arginate, PDA, Oral BPC-157

An oral-stable form of BPC-157 made with an arginine salt that helps it survive stomach acid much better than the standard acetate form. Designed for people who want the potential benefits of BPC-157 without injections. Human clinical data is still extremely limited.

Thymosin Beta-4

Also known as: TB4, Timbetasin

The full-length 43-amino-acid peptide that TB-500 is derived from. It is the most abundant actin-binding protein in human cells and plays a central role in wound healing, cell migration, and tissue repair. Has been studied in clinical trials for wounds, heart damage, and eye injuries.

Compounded (Not FDA-Approved)

MGF

Also known as: Mechano Growth Factor, IGF-1Ec, PEG-MGF, MGF C-Terminal

A splice variant of IGF-1 that is produced when muscle tissue is stretched or damaged. Available as standard MGF (short-lived) and PEG-MGF (longer-lasting pegylated form). Used primarily in research for muscle repair, though scientific evidence for the isolated peptide fragment is mixed.

Growth Hormone

CJC-1295 / Ipamorelin

Also known as: CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, CJC/Ipa

A commonly paired combination of growth hormone-releasing peptides used to stimulate natural GH production for anti-aging, body composition, and recovery.

Compounded (Previously FDA-Approved)

Sermorelin

Also known as: Sermorelin Acetate, GRF 1-29

A growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog that was FDA-approved in 1997 for children with GH deficiency but discontinued by the manufacturer in 2008 for business reasons. Now widely available through compounding pharmacies and is one of the most commonly prescribed peptides for growth hormone optimization in adults.

Ipamorelin

Also known as: Ipamorelin Acetate

One of the most selective growth hormone secretagogues available. It triggers GH release from the pituitary without significantly raising cortisol or prolactin, which makes it cleaner than older GH peptides like GHRP-6. Previously restricted from compounding but expected to return to legal status in 2026.

Not FDA-Approved (Investigational)

MK-677 / Ibutamoren

Also known as: MK-677, Ibutamoren, Ibutamoren Mesylate, Oratrope

A non-peptide, oral growth hormone secretagogue that mimics ghrelin to boost GH and IGF-1 levels. It's taken as a pill or liquid, not an injection. Not FDA-approved and has significant safety concerns including insulin resistance and a potential link to heart failure in elderly patients.

GHRP-2

Also known as: Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2, Pralmorelin

A synthetic growth hormone secretagogue that acts on the ghrelin receptor. It is the first GH secretagogue to be used clinically (approved in Japan as a diagnostic tool under the name pralmorelin). More potent than GHRP-6 but also stimulates appetite, cortisol, and prolactin more.

GHRP-6

Also known as: Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6, Growth Hormone Releasing Hexapeptide

One of the earliest synthetic growth hormone releasing peptides. Known for its strong GH-releasing effect and its very noticeable appetite stimulation. Less selective than newer options like ipamorelin, meaning it also raises cortisol and prolactin. Expected to return to legal compounding in 2026.

Hexarelin

Also known as: Examorelin

The most potent growth hormone releasing peptide, producing the highest peak GH response of any GHRP. Also studied for cardiac protection and neuroprotection. However, it raises cortisol and prolactin more than other options and the body develops tolerance with continued use.

CJC-1295 with DAC

Also known as: CJC-1295 DAC, DAC:GRF, Drug Affinity Complex GRF

A long-acting growth hormone releasing hormone analog with a Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) that binds to albumin in the blood, extending the half-life to 6-8 days. This means it provides continuous GH elevation rather than pulsed release. Originally developed by ConjuChem Biotechnologies.

IGF-1 LR3

Also known as: Long R3 IGF-1, Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 Long R3

A modified version of IGF-1 with 13 extra amino acids and one substitution that makes it about 2-3x more potent and longer-lasting than natural IGF-1. It stays active for 20-30 hours instead of 12 hours. Used in research for muscle growth and recovery but carries real risks including hypoglycemia and potential cancer concerns.

Weight Loss & Metabolic

AOD-9604

Also known as: Anti-Obesity Drug 9604, GH Fragment 176-191

A synthetic fragment of human growth hormone (amino acids 176-191) studied for fat loss. It was designed to have the fat-burning properties of growth hormone without the growth-promoting or blood sugar effects. Previously banned from compounding but expected to return to legal compounding status in 2026.

MOTS-c

Also known as: Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA Type-c

A naturally occurring peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA. It plays a role in metabolic regulation and has been called an 'exercise mimetic' because it activates some of the same pathways as physical activity. Still mostly in the research phase.

FDA-Approved (for HIV Lipodystrophy)

Tesamorelin

Also known as: Egrifta, Egrifta SV, Egrifta WR

An FDA-approved growth hormone-releasing factor analog, currently the only medication approved in the U.S. specifically for reducing excess belly fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Also widely used off-label for body composition and anti-aging.

5-Amino-1MQ

Also known as: 5-Amino 1-Methylquinolinium

A small molecule (not technically a peptide) that blocks the NNMT enzyme involved in fat storage and energy metabolism. Animal studies show promising fat reduction without changes in diet, but there are zero published human clinical trials as of 2026.

Not FDA-Approved (Investigational)

Tesofensine

Also known as: NS2330

A triple monoamine reuptake inhibitor (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine) originally developed for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, then repurposed for obesity. It showed strong weight loss in Phase 2 trials and has been submitted for approval in Mexico, but is not FDA-approved in the U.S.

Cognitive Enhancement

Not FDA-Approved (Pending Reclassification)

Semax

Also known as: ACTH 4-10, Semax Amidate

A synthetic peptide based on a fragment of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone), developed in Russia for cognitive support and neuroprotection. It is approved for clinical use in Russia but not in the United States.

Not FDA-Approved (Pending Reclassification)

Selank

Also known as: TP-7, Selanc

A synthetic peptide derived from the natural immune peptide tuftsin, developed in Russia for anxiety and cognitive support. It is approved in Russia for generalized anxiety disorder but not in the US.

Research Only

Dihexa

Also known as: PNB-0408, N-hexanoic-Tyr-Ile-(6)-aminohexanoic amide

An experimental peptide developed at Washington State University from the angiotensin IV system. It has generated interest because of animal research suggesting it is extremely potent at promoting new synapse formation, but it has no human clinical trials.

Noopept

Also known as: Omberacetam, GVS-111, N-Phenylacetyl-L-prolylglycine ethyl ester

A synthetic nootropic dipeptide developed in Russia, related to the racetam family. It is used clinically in Russia for cognitive disorders but is not approved by the FDA. It is one of the more affordable and widely available nootropic peptides.

Not FDA-Approved (Used in 50+ Countries)

Cerebrolysin

Also known as: FPF-1070

A mixture of brain-derived neurotrophic peptides extracted from pig brain tissue. It is used clinically in over 50 countries for stroke, dementia, and traumatic brain injury, but it is not FDA-approved in the United States.

Immune Support

Not FDA-Approved (Approved in 35+ Countries)

Thymosin Alpha-1

Also known as: Zadaxin, Thymalfasin, TA1

A naturally occurring peptide first isolated from the thymus gland that plays a key role in immune regulation. The branded version (Zadaxin) is approved in over 35 countries for hepatitis and immune support, but compounding was restricted in the US until an expected 2026 reclassification.

Immune Support

Research Only (Category 2 Restricted)

LL-37

Also known as: Cathelicidin, CAP-18, hCAP18

A naturally occurring antimicrobial peptide produced by the human immune system. It is part of the cathelicidin family and has broad activity against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It remains a research compound with limited human clinical data.

Sexual Function

FDA-Approved (as Vyleesi)

PT-141 / Bremelanotide

Also known as: Bremelanotide, Vyleesi

An FDA-approved melanocortin receptor agonist used to treat low sexual desire in premenopausal women. Sold under the brand name Vyleesi, it is one of the few peptides with full FDA approval for a sexual health indication.

Not FDA-Approved (Category 2 Restricted)

Melanotan II

Also known as: MT-2, MT-II

A synthetic melanocortin peptide originally developed at the University of Arizona for skin tanning. It also causes sexual arousal as a side effect. It is not approved by any regulatory agency and carries significant safety concerns.

Research Only (Phase 2 Trials)

Kisspeptin-10

Also known as: Kisspeptin, Metastin 45-54, KISS1

The active fragment of the kisspeptin hormone, which is the master regulator of the reproductive hormone system. It triggers the release of GnRH, which then stimulates LH and FSH production. It is in Phase 2 clinical trials for reproductive and sexual health applications.

Previously FDA-Approved, Now Compounded (Category 1)

Gonadorelin

Also known as: GnRH, Factrel, Lutrepulse, LHRH

A synthetic version of the body's natural gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). It was previously FDA-approved under the brand names Factrel and Lutrepulse (both discontinued). It is now widely available through compounding pharmacies, especially for men on testosterone therapy who want to maintain fertility.

FDA-Approved (Pitocin for Obstetric Use)

Oxytocin

Also known as: Pitocin, Syntocinon

A naturally occurring hormone and neuropeptide produced in the hypothalamus. FDA-approved as Pitocin for labor induction and postpartum bleeding, it is also available as a compounded nasal spray for off-label uses like social bonding, anxiety, and intimacy support.

Anti-Aging & Longevity

Not FDA-Approved (Category 2 Restricted)

Epithalon

Also known as: Epitalon, Epithalone, AGAG

A synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) developed by Russian scientist Vladimir Khavinson, studied for its ability to activate telomerase and potentially slow cellular aging. Animal studies show lifespan extension, but large-scale human trials are limited.

Research Only (Preclinical)

FOXO4-DRI

Also known as: Proxofim, FOXO4 D-Retro-Inverso

A senolytic peptide designed to selectively destroy senescent ('zombie') cells by disrupting the FOXO4-p53 interaction that keeps these damaged cells alive. It is a promising but very early-stage research compound with no human clinical trials.

FDA-Approved (Forzinity for Barth Syndrome)

SS-31 / Elamipretide

Also known as: Elamipretide, Forzinity, Bendavia, MTP-131

A mitochondria-targeted peptide that was granted FDA accelerated approval in September 2025 as the first-ever approved treatment for Barth syndrome, a rare genetic mitochondrial disorder. It is also being studied for broader mitochondrial diseases and age-related decline.

Research Only (Preclinical)

Humanin

Also known as: HN, HNG (humanin analog), Humanin G

A naturally occurring 24-amino-acid peptide encoded by mitochondrial DNA. It was discovered through Alzheimer's disease research and has shown strong neuroprotective and anti-aging properties in lab and animal studies. Levels naturally decline with age.

Available via Compounding and Supplement (Not FDA-Approved for Anti-Aging)

NAD+

Also known as: Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, NAD

A coenzyme found in every living cell that is essential for energy production, DNA repair, and cellular signaling. While not technically a peptide, NAD+ therapy (via IV, injection, or precursors like NMN and NR) is widely used in longevity clinics. Levels naturally decline with age.

Not FDA-Approved (Cosmetic Ingredient)

GHK

Also known as: Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine, GHK Tripeptide

A naturally occurring tripeptide (three amino acids: glycine, histidine, lysine) found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. Levels decline sharply with age. Even without copper binding, GHK has demonstrated wound healing, collagen stimulation, and gene expression effects in research.