Injury Healing
Research compounds studied for accelerating repair of tendons, ligaments, muscles, and nerves. Includes local-acting peptides and systemic anti-inflammatory compounds.
Most researched for Injury Healing
BPC-157 + TB-500
The most commonly researched combination for injury repair. BPC-157 works locally at the injury site, promoting angiogenesis and growth factor upregulation. TB-500 works systemically, promoting cell migration and reducing inflammation throughout the body. Together they cover both local and systemic repair - particularly important for tendons and ligaments where blood supply is limited.
Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper
aka II, GHK-Cu, GHK copper complex
How it works: A topical copper peptide that signals skin to rebuild collagen and elastin, studied for rejuvenation, wound healing, and hair.
Atopic dermatitis management, keratinocyte recovery, skin barrier restoration
Research dose
0.05-1 % (topical), 1–2×/day
Real-world (reported)
0.1–0.5% serum daily. Scalp 0.1% for hair. Do NOT use same session as Vitamin C (oxidation).
Administration
Topical
Timing
Morning and/or evening
Cycle length
Ongoing
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: None reported in preclinical study
Community take: Preclinical research demonstrates synergistic benefit when GHK-Cu is combined with Torilis japonica extract at a 4:6 ratio, showing simultaneous anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and regenerative effects with no cell viability compromise.
- Onset
- Skin 4–12 wks; scar months
- Half-life
- N/A (topical)
- Storage
- Dry: Fridge preferred; room temp ≤3 mo; light sensitive
- Reconstitution
- N/A (pre-formulated)
- Rare side effects
- No serious effects at cosmetic concentrations
- Contraindications
- Known copper allergy; Wilson's disease
- Drug interactions
- No cosmetic interactions
- Recommended bloodwork
- None required
- Stacks well with
- GHK-Cu injectable: same compound different route. Argireline: expression wrinkle complement. Matrixyl: collagen synergy.
- Secondary uses
- Antioxidant support, wound healing
- Research status
- Preclinical - in vitro study using TNF-α/IFN-γ stimulated HaCaT cell model
- FDA status
- No (cosmetic ingredient)
- Legal status
- US: Legal OTC cosmetic · UK: Legal OTC cosmetic · Canada: Legal OTC cosmetic · Australia: TGA cosmetic listed; injectable regulated separately · EU: Legal OTC cosmetic
- Typical price
- $10–$60 / serum
Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment
aka TB-500, TB-500, Tβ4 frag, LKKTETQ
How it works: Upregulates actin to promote cell migration and reduce inflammation throughout the body for systemic healing.
Myocardial infarction, ulcers, dry eye syndrome
Research dose
2-2.5 mg, 2×/week loading; biweekly maintenance
Real-world (reported)
Loading: 2–2.5 mg SubQ 2×/wk × 4 wks; Maintenance: 2.5 mg q2wk
Administration
SubQ / IM
Timing
Variable; 2× weekly split
Cycle length
Loading 4–6 wks; maintenance ongoing
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Lethargy; head rush post-injection; mild fatigue (loading phase)
Community take: [ANECDOTAL – r/Peptides] 2nd most popular healing peptide. BPC+TB combo near-consensus for injuries.
- Onset
- Days–weeks
- Half-life
- Days tissue retention
- Storage
- Dry: Freeze –20°C long-term; fridge 2–8°C ≤12 mo; light sensitive · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 28 days
- Reconstitution
- Add 2 mL BAC water to 5 mg vial = 2.5 mg/mL; 2 mg dose = 80 IU
- Rare side effects
- Theoretical tumor progression (angiogenic); no confirmed human adverse events
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy (theoretical); pregnancy; Active malignancy or history of cancer (Tβ4 promotes angiogenesis and cell migra; Pregnancy and breastfeeding (no safety data available); Known hypersensitivity to Thymosin Beta-4 or any formulation excipients; Children and adolescents (no pediatric safety data)
- Drug interactions
- No well-documented interactions
- Recommended bloodwork
- CBC, CMP baseline; CRP if long cycles
- Stacks well with
- BPC-157 (Wolverine Stack); GHK-Cu (GLOW Stack)
- Secondary uses
- Hair follicle stimulation; neuroprotection; wound healing
- Research status
- Phase II/III Clinical Trials (10+ years of clinical development)
- FDA status
- Not approved as of publication date (2026)
- Legal status
- US: Not approved · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 (Rx only) · EU: Varies by member state
- Typical price
- $40–$70 / 5 mg vial
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Wound healing and tissue repair research; Cardiac repair and cardioprotection studies; Anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic investigations; Corneal wound healing and ophthalmic research; Dermal ulcer and chronic wound treatment trials
- Chemical data
- CAS 77591-33-4 · C212H350N56O78S · 4963 Da
- Amino acids
- 46 aa
Collagen Peptides
aka Hydrolyzed, Hydrolyzed Collagen, CH-Alpha, Peptan
How it works: Pre-broken-down collagen that is absorbed and signals your skin and joints to make more of their own collagen, studied for elasticity and joint support.
Skin elasticity; wrinkle reduction; joint health; tendon/ligament support
Research dose
5-15 g, Once daily
Real-world (reported)
10g/day oral. Take with 200mg Vitamin C.
Administration
Oral
Timing
Any time
Cycle length
12 wks (skin); 24 wks (joints)
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Rare GI discomfort at high doses
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] Well-established supplement with good RCT base. 10g/day minimum; bovine or marine; 12+ weeks. Vitamin C co-administration important.
- Onset
- Skin 4–8 wks; joint 12–24 wks; bone months
- Half-life
- Hours
- Storage
- Dry: Room temperature; dry
- Reconstitution
- N/A (food/supplement)
- Rare side effects
- No serious effects; long safety record as food supplement
- Contraindications
- Animal-derived hypersensitivity (bovine/marine/porcine)
- Drug interactions
- No significant interactions
- Recommended bloodwork
- Optional PINP/P1NP (bone collagen marker)
- Stacks well with
- GHK-Cu topical: systemic (oral) + local (topical) collagen synergy. Vitamin C: essential co-factor.
- Secondary uses
- Bone density; muscle mass (adjunct); hair and nails; wound healing
- Research status
- Multiple human RCTs for skin, joints, bone; well-established at 10g/day
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Dietary supplement (FDA 21 CFR) · UK: Dietary supplement / food ingredient · Canada: NHP (Natural Health Product) · Australia: TGA-listed therapeutic / food · EU: Food supplement; member state level
- Typical price
- $20–$60 / month supply
BPC-157
aka Body Protection Compound-157, Stable gastric pentadecapeptide
How it works: Regulates nitric oxide system to protect kidneys from drug-induced damage
Nephrotoxicity protection, kidney damage reversal
Research dose
10-10 ng/kg, or 10 µg/kg, Once or twice daily (oral)
Real-world (reported)
500 mcg oral 1–2×/day. Can swallow injectable powder. Fasted for broader systemic; with meals for GI mucosal.
Administration
Peroral (drinking water) or intraperitoneal injection
Timing
Fasted for systemic attempt; with meals for GI mucosal targeting
Cycle length
4–12 weeks
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: None reported in this study
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] Very popular oral form for GI. Community: oral = GI targeting; SubQ = systemic. Many use both simultaneously.
- Onset
- GI improvement 1–2 wks; mucosal healing 4–8 wks
- Half-life
- ~15 min plasma (rat IV); under 30 min preclinical. No published human PK; effects outlast plasma presence.
- Storage
- Dry: Capsules: room temp; dry. Loose powder: fridge. · Reconstituted: N/A once swallowed
- Reconstitution
- Injectable powder swallowable (stable in stomach acid) or use pre-formulated capsules
- Rare side effects
- Same theoretical tumor concern as injectable; no oral-specific serious adverse events
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy; pregnancy; same as injectable
- Drug interactions
- No significant interactions
- Recommended bloodwork
- GI symptom assessments; stool calprotectin; CRP
- Stacks well with
- KPV: anti-inflammatory gut synergy. Larazotide: tight junction complement.
- Secondary uses
- Systemic healing via oral (debated efficacy vs SubQ for non-GI targets)
- Research status
- Preclinical - hydrogel formulation development
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only; PCAC July 2026 (same compound) · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $30–$60 / 30-cap bottle (500 mcg each)
Thymosin Beta-4
aka Tβ4, Tβ4, TB-4
How it works: The naturally occurring source protein of TB-500; promotes cell migration, angiogenesis, and anti-inflammatory signaling throughout the body.
Corneal nerve regeneration, wound repair in bacterial keratitis, visual function restoration
Research dose
1-5 mg, 2×/week
Real-world (reported)
2–5 mg SubQ 2×/week. Same protocols as TB-500 community.
Administration
Topical (eye drops)
Timing
Any time
Cycle length
4–8 weeks
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Lethargy; head rush; rare injection-site reactions
Community take: Peer-reviewed preclinical research demonstrates adjunctive Tβ4 + ciprofloxacin restores corneal nerve integrity and visual function in bacterial keratitis, with combination therapy outperforming monotherapy approaches.
- Onset
- Wound/tissue healing 2–4 wks
- Half-life
- ~45 min
- Storage
- Dry: Freeze –20°C; fridge ≤12 mo; light sensitive · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 28 days
- Reconstitution
- Add 2 mL BAC water to 5 mg vial = 2.5 mg/mL
- Rare side effects
- Theoretical tumor progression (angiogenic); very high cost vs LKKTETQ fragment
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy; pregnancy
- Drug interactions
- No well-documented interactions
- Recommended bloodwork
- CBC; CMP baseline
- Stacks well with
- Ciprofloxacin (antibiotic; combination therapy significantly outperformed either agent alone)
- Secondary uses
- Hair growth; anti-inflammatory; corneal repair
- Research status
- Phase II Clinical Trials (preclinical mouse model, published 2026)
- FDA status
- Not FDA approved (research stage in US; appears to be in clinical investigation phase in China)
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $100–$400 / 5 mg vial
KPV
aka Lys-Pro-Val, alpha-MSH C-terminal tripeptide, KPV tripeptide
How it works: Blocks NF-kB inflammatory signaling pathways to reduce chronic inflammation.
GI inflammation; IBD/Crohn's; leaky gut; systemic anti-inflammatory
Research dose
250-1000 mcg, Once or twice daily
Real-world (reported)
500 mcg oral or SubQ daily for GI. SubQ for systemic anti-inflammatory.
Administration
SubQ / Oral
Timing
Any time
Cycle length
4–8 weeks
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Generally well tolerated; mild injection-site reactions
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] Growing use for IBD, leaky gut, Crohn's. Oral route popular for GI targeting. 'BPC-157 for the gut but with immune modulation added.'
- Onset
- GI effects within days; anti-inflammatory effects 1–2 wks
- Half-life
- Minutes
- Storage
- Dry: Fridge 2–8°C; freeze long-term · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 28 days
- Reconstitution
- Add 1 mL BAC water to 1 mg vial = 1 mg/mL; 500 mcg dose = 50 IU
- Rare side effects
- Limited long-term human safety data
- Contraindications
- Active malignancy (MC1R expressed in melanoma); pregnancy; Immunosuppressed states (theoretical - NF-kB inhibition may further compromise i; Pregnancy (no reproductive or developmental toxicity data available)Frequency di; Immunosuppressants (theoretical additive immunosuppression through overlapping N; NF-kB pathway drugs (theoretical pharmacodynamic interaction with agents targeti
- Drug interactions
- No significant documented interactions
- Recommended bloodwork
- GI symptom assessment (IBD activity scores); CRP; stool biomarkers (calprotectin)
- Stacks well with
- BPC-157: gut healing stack. LL-37: antimicrobial complement for gut infections.
- Secondary uses
- Wound healing; skin inflammation; immune modulation
- Research status
- Preclinical robust; some human cell studies; Phase 1/2 ongoing; FDA PCAC July 2026
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only; PCAC July 2026 · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $30–$60 / 1 mg vial
- Research evidence
- very-low
- Indications
- Inflammatory bowel disease research; Mucosal inflammation studies; Gut barrier function research; Anti-inflammatory peptide research
- Chemical data
- CAS 67727-97-3 · C16H30N4O4 · 342.4 Da
- Amino acids
- 11 aa
Cartalax
aka AEDG, Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly
How it works: A short peptide that switches on cartilage-protecting genes, studied for joint and connective-tissue aging.
Cartilage aging protection; joint health; connective tissue anti-aging
Research dose
5-10 mg, Daily ×10 day course
Real-world (reported)
5–10 mg SC ×10 days; 2 cycles/year.
Administration
SC
Timing
Any time
Cycle length
10 days; 2× per year
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Generally well tolerated
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] Russian orthopedic aging protocol. Western niche.
- Onset
- Joint comfort changes 4–8 wks
- Half-life
- Hours
- Storage
- Dry: Fridge 2–8°C; freeze · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 28 days
- Reconstitution
- Add 1 mL BAC water to 10 mg vial
- Rare side effects
- Very limited Western data
- Contraindications
- Active inflammatory arthritis (consult rheumatologist); pregnancy
- Drug interactions
- NSAIDs; DMARDs (inform physician)
- Recommended bloodwork
- Joint function; X-ray/MRI if OA
- Stacks well with
- BPC-157: joint repair complement. GHK-Cu: collagen synergy.
- Secondary uses
- Osteoarthritis prevention; collagen gene expression in chondrocytes
- Research status
- Russian Khavinson lab; cartilage aging animal studies
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- $30–$70 / 10 mg vial
Pentadeca Arginate
aka PDA, PDA, Pentadecapeptide Arginate
How it works: Promotes collagen production and tissue repair while reducing inflammation to support healing.
Tissue repair, anti-inflammatory response, wound healing
Administration
SubQ injection
- Secondary uses
- Post-surgical recovery, neuroprotection, angiogenesis, skin health, anti-aging
- Research status
- Preclinical only
- FDA status
- Not approved; classified as Category 2 bulk drug substance (prohibited in compounding under Section 503A and 503B)
Alpha-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone
aka α-MSH, Alpha-MSH, α-MSH, Melanocyte-stimulating hormone
How it works: Alpha-MSH binds to melanocortin receptors to trigger anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective signaling throughout the body.
Anti-inflammatory signaling, melanogenesis (skin pigmentation), cytoprotection from UV-induced damage, immunomodulation, appetite regulation, neuroprotection
Research dose
1-100 mcg, Varies by study design; single dose and continuous infusion both used
Administration
SubQ injection; intranasal and oral formulations studied in research
Common side effects: Skin hyperpigmentation, darkening of preexisting nevi and ephelides, and development of melanocytic nevi
- Half-life
- Less than 10-20 minutes
- Rare side effects
- At very high doses (≥1 mg injected centrally): increased salivation, agitation, ataxia, respiratory distress, death (in some animals)
- Secondary uses
- Antimicrobial activity, apoptosis suppression, wound healing, photoprotection
- Research status
- Preclinical and Phase II Clinical Trials (NDP-alpha-MSH analogue for photodermatoses)
- FDA status
- Native alpha-MSH: Not approved. FDA-approved synthetic analog bremelanotide (PT-141, Vyleesi): 1.75 mg subcutaneous injection for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women (June 2019)
- Legal status
- US: Despite a ban by the United States Food and Drug Administration, commercially produced, unregulated peptide analogs of α-MSH (eg, melanotan, melanotan II) remain available for sale online
Semax
aka ACTH(4-7)-PGP; Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro, ACTH(4-7)-PGP, heptapeptide
How it works: Semax enhances brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) production to improve neuronal plasticity, memory, and focus.
Cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, stroke recovery, traumatic brain injury recovery, optic nerve disease
Research dose
100-500 mcg, Once or twice daily (research protocols vary by indication)
Real-world (reported)
100-200 mcg per dose, once or twice daily intranasal; 0.1% solution standard; 5-14 day cycles with 1-3 month breaks; some users report 500-1000 mcg subcutaneous injections for clinical conditions
Administration
Intranasal (nasal spray/drops); Subcutaneous injection; Injectable (500-1000 mcg daily documented in some protocols)
Timing
Morning or early afternoon; avoid evening/late dosing to prevent sleep interference
Cycle length
5-14 days (acute use); 5-10 days (clinical neurological conditions); repeating cycles every 1-3 months (nootropic use)
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Nasal irritation (dryness, mild burning, congestion); mild headache; restlessness or overstimulation at higher doses
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] Community considers Semax well-tolerated with good safety profile and effective for focus/memory; primarily used in nootropic and cognitive optimization contexts; cycles recommended to avoid tolerance.
- Onset
- Days to weeks; noticeable cognitive effects may develop over days to weeks
- Half-life
- ~30 min
- Storage
- Dry: Nasal spray: refrigerate; follow mfr guidelines. Lyophilized: fridge/freeze. · Reconstituted: Nasal spray: cloudiness, smell. Injectable: standard flags.
- Reconstitution
- Injectable: add 1 mL BAC water to 1 mg vial = 1 mg/mL
- Rare side effects
- Sleep disruption (when dosed late); irritability; temporary mood fluctuations; mild fatigue; dysgeusia (metallic taste); temporary nasal cavity discoloration
- Contraindications
- None explicitly stated in literature; use caution in patients with high blood pressure or those sensitive to dopaminergic/serotonergic modulation
- Drug interactions
- Potential interaction with SSRIs and stimulants (dopamine/serotonin modulation); no major contraindications documented
- Recommended bloodwork
- Not explicitly mentioned in sources; baseline cognitive assessment recommended
- Stacks well with
- Selank (complementary anxiolytic + immune modulation; both share Pro-Gly-Pro stabilization and intranasal route)
- Secondary uses
- Memory consolidation, attention improvement, gastroprotection, anti-ulcer effects
- Research status
- Approved for clinical use in Russia and CIS countries; Phase II/III equivalent in Russian system; limited Western clinical validation
- FDA status
- Not FDA-approved; withdrawn from FDA Category 2 Do Not Compound list (April 22, 2026); standard 503A/503B pharmacy regulations now apply; remains unapproved for therapeutic use in the United States
- Legal status
- US: Not FDA-approved; not a controlled substance; legal to purchase and possess for research purposes; available through compounding pharmacies via patient-specific prescription from licensed provider; gray legal area for human therapeutic use · UK: Not explicitly mentioned; research use only status inferred · Canada: Schedule 4 · Australia: Not explicitly mentioned; research use only status inferred · EU: Not approved; research use only
- Typical price
- ~$1–$3 / 500 mcg dose
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Stroke recovery and neuroprotection research; Cognitive enhancement and nootropic studies; Neurotrophic factor modulation research; Attention deficit and learning disorder investigations; Optic nerve disease treatment (Russian clinical use)
- Chemical data
- CAS 80714-61-0 · C37H51N9O10S · (Da
- Amino acids
- 27 aa
Klotho KL1 Domain
aka Extracellular Domain of Klotho Protein, Klotho KL1, KL1 domain, Klotho-derived peptide 1
How it works: The KL1 domain of Klotho, a 1012 amino acid transmembrane protein, mediates tumor suppressor activity and anti-fibrotic protection.
Kidney fibrosis protection; kidney function preservation; anti-aging
Research dose
10-10 ug/kg, Single dose in research studies
Administration
Intravenous injection; subcutaneous injection (preclinical mouse studies)
Timing
Not established in human trials
Common side effects: No human safety data available; preclinical only.
- Onset
- Unknown in humans
- Half-life
- Unknown; short half-life noted as a challenge for protein stability
- Storage
- Dry: Stored as lyophilized powder; synthesis by contract manufacturers like GenScript · Reconstituted: Dissolved in 0.01 M acetic acid solution at 10 μg/μL
- Reconstitution
- dissolved in 0.01 M acetic acid at 10 μg/μL
- Rare side effects
- TGF-beta blocking could potentially enhance inflammatory or autoimmune responses; TGF-beta inhibition during active wound healing could impair tissue repair
- Contraindications
- Theoretical concern with TGF-beta inhibitors in patients with active wounds or infections, as TGF-beta plays roles in wound healing and immune function.
- Drug interactions
- Theoretical additive effects with other TGF-beta pathway inhibitors (pirfenidone, nintedanib) and potential interactions with Wnt modulators
- Secondary uses
- Acute kidney injury treatment; cellular senescence inhibition; tumor suppression; cognitive enhancement
- Research status
- Preclinical
- FDA status
- No exogenous Klotho preparation has been administered to humans in a clinical trial. Klotho has no FDA regulatory classification and exists entirely outside the FDA's current therapeutic framework.
- Legal status
- US: Not available as a therapeutic product; no exogenous Klotho preparation (recombinant protein, gene therapy, or small molecule) has been administered to humans in clinical trial. Any product sold online claiming to be 'Klotho' or 'Klotho peptide' should be viewed with extreme skepticism.
B7-33
aka Relaxin Analog, H2 relaxin analog
How it works: A streamlined version of the hormone relaxin, studied for reducing scar-like tissue (fibrosis) in the heart and improving blood flow.
Cardiac fibrosis prevention; heart failure (research); anti-fibrotic
Real-world (reported)
NO ESTABLISHED HUMAN PROTOCOL
Administration
SubQ/IV (clinical research)
Timing
Any time
Cycle length
Research only
Real-world figures are community-reported, not medical advice.
Common side effects: Very limited: injection-site reactions; hypotension
Community take: [ANECDOTAL] Essentially no gray-market experience. Research compound only.
- Onset
- Research endpoints only
- Half-life
- ~1–2h
- Storage
- Dry: Freeze –20°C; protect from light · Reconstituted: Refrigerate; use within 14 days
- Reconstitution
- Add 1 mL BAC water per manufacturer
- Rare side effects
- Hypotension; limited long-term data
- Contraindications
- Hypotension; CV disease; pregnancy
- Drug interactions
- Antihypertensives (additive)
- Recommended bloodwork
- BP monitoring; cardiac biomarkers
- Stacks well with
- ARA-290: anti-fibrotic complement. SS-31: cardiac protection.
- Secondary uses
- Pulmonary fibrosis; renal fibrosis; vasodilation
- Research status
- Preclinical robust; Phase 1 human pharmacokinetic data; no Phase 3
- FDA status
- No
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · UK: Legal for research · Canada: Legal research chemical · Australia: Schedule 4 · EU: Unregulated
- Typical price
- Not applicable
Conantokin G
aka CGX-1007, Con-G, CGX-1007, Conantokin-G
How it works: A 17 amino acid peptide that selectively inhibits NR2B subunits of NMDA receptors with potential therapeutic applications for pain management.
Pain management, seizure prevention, neuroprotection
Research dose
1-100 mcg
Administration
Administered directly into the central nervous system, most preferably intrathecally.
Common side effects: Well-tolerated and does not display many of the typical NMDAR antagonist-induced side effects.
- Secondary uses
- Ischemic stroke neuroprotection, anti-apoptotic effects
- Research status
- CGX-1007 has received investigational new drug status by the US Food and Drug Administration with Phase I (safety) clinical trials recently completed.
Substance P
aka Neuropeptide, SP, Tachykinin
How it works: Substance P is released by neurons when experiencing painful stimuli and helps transmit pain messages to the brain and spinal cord.
Pain transmission and modulation, nausea and vomiting prevention, depression/mood disorders, inflammation
Research dose
10-250 nmol/kg
Administration
Intravenous injection; intracerebral infusion
Common side effects: Mood worsening, increased REM latency, increased time awake, increased cortisol and thyroid stimulating hormone
- Half-life
- Not explicitly stated in sources
- Rare side effects
- Stevens–Johnson syndrome, neutropenia, angioedema, QT prolongation (with NK antagonists)
- Secondary uses
- Colitis, dental pain, anxiety disorders, stress response
- Research status
- Phase II Clinical Trials; Active Research
- FDA status
- Not directly approved as therapeutic peptide; NK1 antagonists (aprepitant) approved for chemotherapy-induced nausea/vomiting
ACE-031
aka ActRIIB-Fc, ActRIIB-IgG1 Fc, Activin Receptor Type IIB Decoy
How it works: ACE-031 is a soluble form of the activin receptor type IIB (ActRIIB) fused to the Fc portion of human IgG1 antibody. It acts as a decoy receptor that traps myostatin and related TGF-beta superfamily ligands, preventing them from binding to endogenous receptors and thereby promoting muscle growth. Clinical development was halted in 2013 due to safety concerns including epistaxis and telangiectasias
Duchenne muscular dystrophy research (clinical development discontinued); Muscle wasting and sarcopenia research; Myostatin pathway biology studies; Neuromuscular disease therapeutic development
Administration
SC
Timing
No specific time of day required; allow solution to reach room temperature before injection✓ Rotate injection sites
Cycle length
12 weeks (based on Phase 2 DMD protocol; trial was terminated early)
- Half-life
- Approximately 10-15 days (estimated from pharmacokinetic data)
- Storage
- Dry: ACE-031 protein solutions should be stored at 2-8 degrees Celsius (refrigerated). Protect from freezing and agitation. Protein solutions are sensitive
- Contraindications
- ACE-031 is a discontinued investigational compound not approved for any use; Individuals with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia or vascular fragility dis; Active bleeding disorders or conditions predisposing to hemorrhage; Pregnancy (potential effects on angiogenesis and fetal development)Frequency dis
- Research status
- Phase 2
- FDA status
- Not approved
- Legal status
- US: Withdrawn From Market
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Duchenne muscular dystrophy research (clinical development discontinued); Muscle wasting and sarcopenia research; Myostatin pathway biology studies; Neuromuscular disease therapeutic development
- Chemical data
- Complex fusion protein · 130000 Da
- Amino acids
- 79 aa
Brimapitide
aka AM-111, D-JNKI-1, XG-102
How it works: Brimapitide (AM-111/D-JNKI-1) is a 31-amino acid cell-penetrating peptide that inhibits c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), a stress kinase involved in cochlear cell apoptosis. Developed by Auris Medical for acute idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL), it was administered as a single intratympanic injection in a biocompatible gel. The Phase 3 HEALOS trial failed to meet its primary endp
Acute idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL, discontinued); Otoprotection following acute cochlear injury (investigational)
Administration
IM
Timing
Single intratympanic injection within 72 hours of hearing loss onset. Administered by ENT specialist under local anesthesia. Development discontinued.
Cycle length
Single administration (follow-up to 91 days)
- Half-life
- Extended intracellular half-life due to
- Contraindications
- Development discontinued. Formal contraindications were not established.; Active middle ear infection would preclude intratympanic injection.; Existing tympanic membrane perforation may affect gel retention and drug deliver; No drug interactions were formally characterized. Local intratympanic administra
- Research status
- Phase 3
- FDA status
- Not approved
- Legal status
- US: Withdrawn From Market
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Acute idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL, discontinued); Otoprotection following acute cochlear injury (investigational)
- Chemical data
- CAS 1445179-97-4 · C164H286N66O40 · 3614 Da
- Amino acids
- 113 aa
Risuteganib
aka ALG-1001, Luminate
How it works: Risuteganib (Luminate/ALG-1001) is a first-in-class synthetic RGD-class peptide that regulates multiple integrin heterodimers involved in retinal disease. Administered by intravitreal injection, it targets oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammation in the retina. Phase 2a results in intermediate dry AMD showed 48% of patients achieved 8 or more ETDRS letter gain versus 7% with s
Intermediate dry age-related macular degeneration (Phase 2b/3); Diabetic macular edema (Phase 2)
Administration
IV
Timing
Intravitreal injection administered by a qualified retinal specialist under sterile ophthalmic conditions. Not a subcutaneous or systemic injection.
Cycle length
52 weeks (Phase 2b/3 primary endpoint)
- Half-life
- Approximately
- Contraindications
- Active ocular or periocular infection (general contraindication for intravitreal; Known hypersensitivity to risuteganib or any excipient; Formal contraindications have not been established as the drug is investigationa; No drug-drug interactions have been formally characterized. Risuteganib is admin
- Research status
- Phase 2a
- Legal status
- US: Investigational
- Research evidence
- moderate
- Indications
- Intermediate dry age-related macular degeneration (Phase 2b/3); Diabetic macular edema (Phase 2)
- Chemical data
- CAS 1307293-62-4 · C22H39N9O11S · 637.66 Da
- Amino acids
- 23 aa
Somatropin
aka recombinant human growth hormone, Growth hormone, GH, rHGH
How it works: Stimulates growth hormone signaling pathways, increasing anabolic activity including bone remodeling.
Muscle growth, athletic performance
Administration
SubQ injection
Timing
Anti-aging: before bed (mimics natural GH pulse); Performance: morning fasted and/or post-workout; avoid close to meals high in carbs/fat✓ Rotate inje
Cycle length
Chronic / long-term (approximately 20 years in case report)
Common side effects: Cervical osteophyte formation with esophageal compression
Community take: Long-term exogenous growth hormone use, particularly when combined with GH secretagogues and prior spinal trauma, may accelerate pathological bone spur formation requiring medical screening.
- Half-life
- Not established
- Reconstitution
- Bacteriostatic water
- Rare side effects
- Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
- Contraindications
- Patients with cervical spondylosis or prior cervical trauma should be monitored for osteophyte complications
- Recommended bloodwork
- Not mentioned in case report
- Secondary uses
- Body composition
- Research status
- Preclinical (In vitro/animal model hydrogel study)
- FDA status
- FDA approved
- Legal status
- US: FDA-approved for specific clinical indications; research use only for performance enhancement
- Research evidence
- low
- Indications
- Growth hormone deficiency treatment (pediatric and adult); Turner syndrome growth support; Chronic renal insufficiency-related growth failure; AIDS-related wasting syndrome
- Chemical data
- CAS 12629-01-5 · C990H1529N263O299S7 · 22124 Da
- Amino acids
- 191 aa
Efocipegtrutide
aka HM15211, HM15211, LAPS Triple Agonist
How it works: Efocipegtrutide is a long-acting glucagon, GIP and GLP-1 triple full agonist conjugated with human immunoglobulin constant region.
MASH (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis), obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hepatic fibrosis
- Secondary uses
- Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis
- Research status
- Phase 2 development; Phase 2b clinical study is being investigated in biopsy-confirmed MASH subjects with fibrosis.
- FDA status
- FDA granted fast track designation for MASH treatment. Received orphan drug designation from FDA and EMA for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis.
SYN-COLL
aka Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Palmitoyl-Lys-Val-Lys, Tripeptide-5
How it works: SYN-COLL works by mimicking the body's natural communication mechanisms that stimulate collagen synthesis.
Collagen stimulation, wrinkle reduction, skin firmness and elasticity improvement, collagen degradation inhibition
Administration
Topical forms produce modest gradual improvements over 4 to 12 weeks, while injectable versions produce more dramatic results with faster timelines.
Common side effects: None explicitly documented; SYN-COLL is safe and well-tolerated.
- Onset
- Results shown to improve skin firmness and texture in subjects aged 40+, across different ethnicities, in just 4 weeks.
- Rare side effects
- Not reported in available sources
- Stacks well with
- Argireline; Carnosine—multi-peptide formulations reported synergistic anti-aging effects
- Secondary uses
- Tissue engineering scaffold development, extracellular matrix (ECM) support, skin texture improvement
- Research status
- Preclinical; Community Research Only
- FDA status
- Not currently approved for human use in the US. Available as a research compound. Not eligible for compounding.
- Legal status
- US: Not currently approved for human use in the US. Available as a research compound. Not eligible for compounding.
- Typical price
- Varies by supplier and concentration; mentioned at £6.25–£38.00 GBP range
Endomorphin-1
aka EM-1, EM-1, EM1
How it works: Endomorphin-1 selectively binds to μ-opioid receptors to suppress pain signals and produce analgesia.
analgesia, pain relief (acute, chronic, neuropathic, and inflammatory pain)
Administration
Intracerebroventricular injection; intrathecal injection; subcutaneous injection (in preclinical studies)
Common side effects: tolerance to inhibitory effects (observed over repeated administration)
- Rare side effects
- respiratory depression, inhibition of gastrointestinal motility
- Secondary uses
- vasodilation
- Research status
- Preclinical research; no clinical trials
- FDA status
- Not approved
Deltorphin II
aka [D-Ala2]Deltorphin II, Deltorphin B, [D-Ala2]Deltorphin II, DADELT II
How it works: Deltorphin II activates delta opioid receptors with high selectivity to produce pain relief and cardiac protection.
Pain management; cardiac protection; neuropathic pain relief
Research dose
0.12-0.12 mg/kg
Administration
Intravenous injection; intracerebroventricular injection; intrathecal (spinal); topical (nociceptor studies)
Common side effects: Hypothermia (at high doses)
- Onset
- Maximal effects at 10 minutes with significant antinociception lasting 40-60 minutes following intracerebroventricular administration
- Storage
- Dry: -20 ± 5 °C
- Contraindications
- Not established in available literature
- Secondary uses
- Dopamine regulation; cardioprotection against ischemia/reperfusion injury
- Research status
- Preclinical; extensively studied in animal models since 1989
- FDA status
- Not approved
- Legal status
- US: Research use only · EU: Research use only
Abaloparatide
aka Tymlos, BA-058
How it works: Abaloparatide is a 34-amino-acid synthetic analog of human parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) developed by Radius Health and marketed as Tymlos. FDA-approved in April 2017 for postmenopausal osteoporosis at high fracture risk, and expanded in 2022 to include men with osteoporosis, abaloparatide acts as a selective PTH1 receptor agonist favoring the RG conformation to promote bone formatio
Postmenopausal osteoporosis at high fracture risk; Male osteoporosis at high fracture risk; Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (off-label)
Administration
SC
Timing
Same time each day; no food restrictions✓ Rotate injection sites
Cycle length
Up to 2 years
- Half-life
- Approximately 1 hour
- Storage
- Dry: Refrigerate at 2-8 degrees C before first use. After first use, store at room temperature (20-25 degrees C) for up to 30 days. Do not freeze.
- Contraindications
- Patients at increased risk for osteosarcoma (Paget disease of bone, unexplained; Pre-existing hypercalcemia; Pregnancy (embryo-fetal toxicity observed in animal studies); Known hypersensitivity to abaloparatide or excipientsFrequency distribution of r
- Research status
- Approved
- FDA status
- FDA approved
- Legal status
- US: Approved
- Research evidence
- high
- Indications
- Postmenopausal osteoporosis at high fracture risk; Male osteoporosis at high fracture risk; Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (off-label)
- Chemical data
- CAS 247062-33-5 · C174H300N56O49 · 3960.59 Da
- Amino acids
- 255 aa
Botulinum Toxin
aka Botox, OnabotulinumtoxinA, AbobotulinumtoxinA
How it works: Botulinum toxin type A is a neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum that blocks acetylcholine release at neuromuscular junctions. It is FDA-approved for multiple therapeutic and cosmetic indications including chronic migraine, cervical dystonia, spasticity, blepharospasm, overactive bladder, hyperhidrosis, and glabellar lines.New to cosmetic peptides?Browse all cosmetic peptides →Table of Con
Chronic migraine prophylaxis; Cervical dystonia; Upper and lower limb spasticity; Blepharospasm; Cosmetic treatment of facial wrinkles; Axillary hyperhidrosis; Overactive bladder
Administration
IM
Timing
No specific time of day; administered in clinic by trained healthcare professional
Cycle length
Ongoing; repeated every 12 weeks as needed
- Half-life
- Intracellular half-life of the catalytic light chain is estimated at several wee
- Storage
- Dry: Store unopened vials refrigerated at 2-8C (or frozen at or below -5C for some formulations). Reconstituted solution: store refrigerated and use within
- Reconstitution
- Sterile 0.9% salineUse within: 24 hours
- Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to botulinum toxin or any formulation component; Infection at the proposed injection site; Pre-existing neuromuscular disorders (myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome,; Pregnancy and breastfeeding (Category C; insufficient data)Frequency distributio
- Research status
- Approved
- FDA status
- FDA approved
- Legal status
- US: Approved
- Research evidence
- high
- Indications
- Chronic migraine prophylaxis; Cervical dystonia; Upper and lower limb spasticity; Blepharospasm; Cosmetic treatment of facial wrinkles; Axillary hyperhidrosis; Overactive bladder
- Chemical data
- CAS 93384-43-1 · Complex protein · 149000 Da
- Amino acids
- 296 aa
Cebranopadol
aka GRT-6005, TRN-228
How it works: Cebranopadol (GRT-6005) is a first-in-class oral analgesic with dual agonist activity at nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) and mu-opioid (MOP) receptors. Developed by Tris Pharma, it has completed two positive Phase 3 trials (ALLEVIATE-1 and ALLEVIATE-2) for acute pain and holds FDA Fast Track designation for chronic low back pain. NDA submission is planned for 2025.New to pain peptides?Browse
Moderate-to-severe acute pain (Phase 3 completed); Chronic low back pain (FDA Fast Track designation); Chronic neuropathic pain (Phase 2 completed)
Administration
Oral
Timing
Once-daily dosing supported by long half-life (62-96 hours terminal)
Cycle length
2 days (acute); ongoing (chronic)Step-wise Titration (4 weeks)
- Half-life
- Not established
- Storage
- Dry: Room temperature (20-25 degrees C). Protect from light and moisture.
- Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to cebranopadol or any excipient; Severe respiratory depression or severe bronchial asthma in unmonitored settings; Concurrent use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of disc; CNS depressants (benzodiazepines, alcohol, other sedatives) may potentiate sedat
- Research status
- Phase 3
- FDA status
- Not approved
- Legal status
- US: Investigational
- Research evidence
- moderate-high
- Indications
- Moderate-to-severe acute pain (Phase 3 completed); Chronic low back pain (FDA Fast Track designation); Chronic neuropathic pain (Phase 2 completed)
- Chemical data
- CAS 863513-91-1 · C24H27FN2O · 378.48 Da
- Amino acids
- 46 aa
Dermorphin
aka Tyr-D-Ala-Phe-Gly-Tyr-Pro-Ser-NH2, Dermorphine
How it works: Dermorphin is a naturally occurring opioid heptapeptide first isolated from the skin of the South American tree frog Phyllomedusa sauvagei. It contains the unusual D-alanine residue at position 2 and demonstrates 30- to 40-fold higher affinity for mu-opioid receptors compared to morphine, making it one of the most potent naturally occurring opioid peptides known.New to pain peptides?Browse all pai
Opioid receptor pharmacology research; Analgesic mechanism studies; Receptor binding and selectivity investigations
Administration
SC
Timing
As needed for analgesic testing in research settings
Cycle length
Single administration studies; not intended for repeated dosing protocols
- Half-life
- Not established
- Storage
- Dry: Store lyophilized powder at -20C protected from light and moisture. Reconstituted solutions should be stored at -80C in single-use aliquots. Avoid rep
- Reconstitution
- Sterile water
- Contraindications
- Respiratory insufficiency or pre-existing respiratory depression; Concurrent use of other CNS depressants or opioid compounds; Pregnancy (no safety data; opioid class concerns); Pediatric subjects (no safety data)
- Research status
- Phase 3
- FDA status
- Not approved
- Legal status
- US: Preclinical Research
- Research evidence
- low
- Indications
- Opioid receptor pharmacology research; Analgesic mechanism studies; Receptor binding and selectivity investigations
- Chemical data
- CAS 77614-16-5 · C40H50N6O9 · 803.92 Da
- Amino acids
- 233 aa
Teriparatide
aka Forteo, rhPTH(1-34)
How it works: Teriparatide is a recombinant form of the first 34 amino acids of human parathyroid hormone (PTH(1-34)), developed by Eli Lilly and marketed as Forteo. FDA-approved in November 2002, it was the first osteoanabolic agent for osteoporosis. In the landmark Fracture Prevention Trial, teriparatide 20 mcg daily reduced vertebral fractures by 65% and nonvertebral fractures by 53% in postmenopausal women.
Postmenopausal osteoporosis at high fracture risk; Male osteoporosis (primary or hypogonadal); Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis
Administration
SC
Timing
Same time each day; no food restrictions✓ Rotate injection sites
Cycle length
Determined by clinical judgment (no limit)
- Half-life
- Approximately 1 hour
- Storage
- Dry: Refrigerate at 2-8 degrees C at all times. Do not freeze. Pen usable for 28 days after first injection.
- Contraindications
- Patients at increased risk for osteosarcoma (Paget disease, unexplained alkaline; Pre-existing hypercalcemia; Pregnancy (Category C; may cause fetal harm); Known hypersensitivity to teriparatide or excipientsFrequency distribution of re
- Research status
- Approved
- FDA status
- FDA approved
- Legal status
- US: Approved
- Research evidence
- high
- Indications
- Postmenopausal osteoporosis at high fracture risk; Male osteoporosis (primary or hypogonadal); Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis
- Chemical data
- CAS 52232-67-4 · C181H291N55O51S2 · 4117.8 Da
- Amino acids
- 34 aa
Ziconotide
aka Prialt, SNX-111, omega-conotoxin MVIIA
How it works: Ziconotide (Prialt) is a synthetic 25-amino acid peptide derived from the venom of the marine cone snail Conus magus. It is FDA-approved for intrathecal management of severe chronic pain in patients refractory to other therapies. Ziconotide selectively blocks N-type voltage-gated calcium channels (Cav2.2) in the spinal cord dorsal horn, inhibiting neurotransmitter release and pain signal transmiss
Severe chronic pain refractory to systemic analgesics; Cancer-related pain; Neuropathic pain; Pain refractory to intrathecal morphine
Administration
IV
Timing
Start at 2.4 mcg/day (0.1 mcg/hour). Titrate upward by no more than 2.4 mcg/day at intervals of no more than 2-3 times per week. Slow titration is cri
Cycle length
Long-term continuous therapy
- Half-life
- 4.6 hours (CSF)
- Contraindications
- History of psychosis (black box contraindication); Known hypersensitivity to ziconotide or any formulation components; Conditions compromising intrathecal drug delivery (e.g., infection at injection; CNS depressants (opioids, benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants) may potentiate dizzi
- Research status
- Approved
- FDA status
- FDA approved
- Legal status
- US: Approved
- Research evidence
- high
- Indications
- Severe chronic pain refractory to systemic analgesics; Cancer-related pain; Neuropathic pain; Pain refractory to intrathecal morphine
- Chemical data
- CAS 107452-89-1 · C102H172N36O32S7 · 2639.14 Da
- Amino acids
- 229 aa
Example stacks
Healing - Beginner
BPC-157 injected locally near the injury is the most direct and well-studied healing protocol.
- • Inject subcutaneously as close to the injury as safely possible
- • Oral BPC-157 on empty stomach for gut injuries
- • Refrigerate and use within 4 weeks of reconstitution
Healing - Intermediate
BPC-157 manages local repair while TB-500 works throughout the body. Especially valuable for tendons and ligaments where blood supply is poor.
- • Use BPC-157 locally and TB-500 anywhere - it works systemically
- • Split TB-500 into two equal injections
- • Add vitamin C and collagen-rich foods
Community outcome data
Collected from users researching this goal. Not a clinical database - for general reference only.
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