A plain-English
peptide reference.

What it is

AOD-9604 is a synthetic peptide consisting of the last 15 amino acids of human growth hormone, with an extra tyrosine added. It was originally developed by Australian pharmaceutical company Metabolic Pharmaceuticals as an oral weight-loss drug. It failed late-stage clinical trials for efficacy but is now sold as a research chemical and used in some compounding pharmacies.

Plain English

The fat-burning part of growth hormone, isolated and sold separately — that was the original pitch. The idea was: get the fat-loss benefits of GH without the muscle growth, blood sugar, or organ-enlargement side effects. The reality from clinical trials: it didn't beat placebo for meaningful weight loss. It's still marketed heavily by anti-aging clinics.

How it works

Mimics the lipolytic (fat-mobilizing) C-terminus of GH without binding to GH receptors. Theoretically stimulates lipolysis and inhibits lipogenesis without affecting blood sugar, IGF-1, or other GH-axis hormones.

What people claim it does

• ·Fat loss without GH side effects
• ·Improved joint and cartilage recovery (newer claim)
• ·No effect on blood sugar or appetite

What the research actually says

Phase II trials in obese adults failed to demonstrate clinically meaningful weight loss vs placebo. The drug was abandoned for its original indication. Smaller studies suggest possible joint/cartilage benefits but evidence is weak. It is now primarily a 'feels safe but probably doesn't do much' compound in the anti-aging clinic space.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Well-tolerated in trials — very low side effect profile
• ·Main risk is opportunity cost — you may be paying for something with little measurable effect
• ·Quality and authenticity in grey market unreliable

Legal status

Not approved for any indication. Sold widely as a research chemical and through compounding pharmacies for off-label use.

Sources

• Metabolic Pharmaceuticals AOD-9604 development history →

What it is

ARA-290 (cibinetide) is an 11-amino-acid peptide derived from a region of erythropoietin (EPO) that interacts with tissue-protective receptors rather than the hematopoietic ones. It was developed to capture EPO's tissue-protective effects without the red blood cell production effects (which carry blood-clotting risk). Studied in clinical trials for diabetic neuropathy and sarcoidosis-related small fiber neuropathy.

Plain English

EPO is famous for two things: it grows red blood cells (the doping use) and it protects damaged tissue (the medical use). ARA-290 is the redesign that keeps the tissue protection but removes the blood-thickening risk. It's been studied specifically for nerve pain in diabetics and small-fiber neuropathy patients. Promising data, but development has stalled at the late clinical stage.

How it works

Activates the innate repair receptor (IRR), a heteromeric receptor of EPO receptor and beta common receptor (βcR). This pathway is distinct from EPO's hematopoietic pathway, so ARA-290 produces tissue protection and anti-inflammatory effects without affecting red blood cell production.

What people claim it does

• ·Reduced neuropathic pain
• ·Improved nerve function in diabetic neuropathy
• ·Anti-inflammatory effects in autoimmune conditions
• ·Tissue protection without EPO's clotting risks

What the research actually says

Multiple Phase II trials in sarcoidosis-related small fiber neuropathy and diabetic neuropathy show meaningful improvements in pain scores and nerve fiber density. Phase III development has been slow. The mechanism (IRR activation) is well-characterized; the clinical case is supported by mid-stage trials but not yet definitively established.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Generally well-tolerated in clinical trials
• ·Injection site reactions
• ·Long-term safety beyond ~6 month trial windows not established
• ·Source quality in grey market unreliable

Legal status

Not approved for any indication. In late-stage clinical development by Araim Pharmaceuticals. Available as a research chemical.

Sources

• Heij et al. — ARA-290 in sarcoidosis neuropathy →

What it is

BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound-157) is a synthetic peptide derived from a 15-amino-acid sequence found in human gastric juice. It is not approved for human use by any major regulatory body. It is widely sold as a research chemical.

Plain English

Imagine your stomach already makes a protein that helps wounds in your gut heal. BPC-157 is a man-made fragment of that protein. The theory is that this fragment, when injected or taken under the tongue, helps tissue heal — tendons, ligaments, gut lining, muscle. In rats and isolated cells, the data looks impressive. In humans, the data is much thinner.

How it works

Appears to promote angiogenesis (new blood vessel growth), modulate growth hormone receptors on tendon cells, and influence nitric oxide and dopamine pathways. Most mechanistic data is from rodent and in-vitro studies.

What people claim it does

• ·Faster recovery from tendon and ligament injuries
• ·Healing of gut inflammation and ulcers
• ·Reduced joint pain
• ·Improved recovery between training sessions

What the research actually says

Strong evidence in animal models for tissue repair, gut healing, and anti-inflammatory effects across dozens of rodent studies. Human clinical trials are minimal and the existing ones are small, often funded by interested parties, and not yet replicated at scale. The gap between 'works in rats' and 'works in humans' is real and unresolved.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·No long-term human safety data exists
• ·Injection site reactions reported anecdotally
• ·Theoretical concerns about angiogenic effects in tumor-prone tissue (unproven, but worth noting)
• ·Quality varies wildly across grey-market suppliers — contamination risk

Legal status

Sold legally in most jurisdictions as a research chemical labeled 'not for human consumption.' WADA (anti-doping) added it to the prohibited list in 2022 for competitive athletes.

Sources

• Sikiric et al. — Review of BPC-157 research →
• WADA Prohibited List (S0 — Non-Approved Substances) →

What it is

Cerebrolysin is not a single peptide but a complex mixture of low-molecular-weight peptides and amino acids derived from purified pig brain. It is manufactured by Austrian company EVER Neuro Pharma and is approved for clinical use in over 50 countries (mostly Europe, Asia, Russia, Latin America) — but not in the US.

Plain English

Cerebrolysin is what happens when you take pig brain tissue, break it down enzymatically, and isolate the small biologically active peptides that come out. It mimics the action of natural neurotrophic factors — the body's own 'feed and protect brain cells' signals. Used in stroke recovery wards across Europe; almost unheard of in the US.

How it works

Mimics neurotrophic factors like BDNF and NGF, supporting neuronal survival, differentiation, and synaptic plasticity. Crosses the blood-brain barrier (limited but functional). Anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory in neural tissue.

What people claim it does

• ·Improved recovery after stroke
• ·Cognitive improvement in dementia and Alzheimer's
• ·Neuroprotection after traumatic brain injury
• ·General nootropic effects (off-label/recreational use)

What the research actually says

Multiple Phase III trials and Cochrane reviews exist. Results are mixed: meaningful benefit in acute ischemic stroke, modest benefit in vascular dementia, equivocal in Alzheimer's. The compound is reasonably well-studied for its niche but heavily debated in Western neurology literature.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Injection site pain and irritation common
• ·Rare allergic reactions (it's a biological product)
• ·Headache and dizziness reported
• ·Not approved in the US — quality of grey-market sources highly variable
• ·Risk of pathogen transmission with poor-quality sources (it's pig brain)

Legal status

Prescription medication in EU, Asia, Russia, Latin America. Not approved by FDA. Personal import for personal use exists in a legal grey zone.

Sources

• Cochrane Review — Cerebrolysin for vascular dementia →

What it is

CJC-1295 is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue (a ghrelin receptor agonist). They are typically used together because they work on two different pathways and produce a synergistic pulse of natural growth hormone.

Plain English

Instead of injecting growth hormone directly, this combo asks your own pituitary gland to make more of its own. CJC-1295 increases the volume on the 'release more GH' signal. Ipamorelin presses a separate button that triggers a GH pulse without messing with cortisol or hunger hormones. Together they aim to produce a more natural-feeling GH increase than direct injection.

How it works

CJC-1295 binds to GHRH receptors on the pituitary, increasing GH and IGF-1 levels. Ipamorelin binds to the GHSR (ghrelin receptor), causing a pulsed GH release. The combination produces both elevated baseline GH and a clean pulse without significant cortisol or prolactin elevation.

What people claim it does

• ·Improved sleep quality (especially deep sleep)
• ·Better recovery and muscle repair
• ·Modest fat loss over time
• ·Improved skin and connective tissue
• ·Anti-aging effects (claimed, not well established)

What the research actually says

Small clinical trials of CJC-1295 in healthy adults show significant elevations in GH and IGF-1 sustained for over a week per dose (in the long-acting DAC version). Ipamorelin has been studied in clinical trials for post-operative ileus (gut paralysis) and shows clean GH pulses without cortisol spikes. Long-term efficacy and safety in healthy adults remains under-studied.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Water retention and tingling at higher doses
• ·Hunger/appetite increase (more pronounced with ghrelin-pathway peptides)
• ·Theoretical concerns about chronic IGF-1 elevation and cancer risk in susceptible individuals
• ·Long-term effects on natural pituitary function unknown

Legal status

Both peptides are sold as research chemicals. Banned by WADA for athletic competition. Sermorelin (a similar GHRH analog) is FDA-approved.

Sources

• Teichman et al. — CJC-1295 Phase II trial →
• Raun et al. — Ipamorelin pharmacology →

What it is

CJC-1295 with DAC is the modified GHRH analog that includes a drug affinity complex (DAC) — a chemical handle that allows the peptide to bind covalently to circulating albumin in the blood. This dramatically extends its half-life from minutes to roughly 8 days. This is the version that was originally developed by ConjuChem and reached Phase II clinical trials.

Plain English

Take a GHRH analog (which normally lasts ~30 minutes), add a chemical clip that lets it stick to a long-lived blood protein, and you get a peptide that elevates GH for over a week per injection. Convenient (one shot weekly) but the trade-off is sustained elevation rather than the natural pulsatile pattern your body normally uses. Sustained vs pulsed GH has different physiological implications.

How it works

Same as Mod GRF 1-29 — binds pituitary GHRH receptors and triggers GH release. The DAC modification means circulating drug remains bioactive for days, producing sustained low-level GHRH signaling rather than discrete pulses. This results in higher baseline GH and IGF-1 levels throughout the week.

What people claim it does

• ·Convenient weekly dosing
• ·Sustained IGF-1 elevation
• ·Improved sleep, recovery, body composition over weeks/months
• ·Better adherence than daily-injection protocols

What the research actually says

Phase I/II clinical trials by ConjuChem in healthy adults demonstrated dose-dependent elevations in GH and IGF-1 sustained for over a week per dose. Development stalled at Phase II for commercial reasons. Long-term data in healthy adults at recreational doses is limited.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Sustained GH/IGF-1 elevation vs pulsed — physiological implications less natural
• ·Water retention, tingling, joint discomfort at higher doses
• ·Long-term effects on natural pituitary function unknown
• ·Theoretical cancer concerns with chronic IGF-1 elevation
• ·Banned by WADA

Legal status

Sold as a research chemical. Frequently confused with Mod GRF 1-29 (which is sold under similar names but lacks the DAC modification). Banned by WADA.

Sources

• Teichman et al. — CJC-1295 Phase II trial →

What it is

Dihexa (N-hexanoic-Tyr-Ile-(6)-amino hexanoic amide) is a small-molecule analog derived from angiotensin IV, developed by researchers at Washington State University. It is not a peptide in the strict sense (it's smaller and more drug-like) but is grouped with peptides because of its origin. It is orally bioavailable, crosses the blood-brain barrier, and has shown dramatic effects on synaptic density in lab studies.

Plain English

Dihexa was designed to dramatically increase the connections between brain cells. In rodent studies the effect was described as orders of magnitude more potent than BDNF (the body's natural brain-growth factor). It looked promising as an Alzheimer's drug. The catch: it never made it to human trials, and 'dramatically increases synapses in rats' is a long way from 'safe for humans.' It's now sold as a research chemical with very little human data.

How it works

Activates HGF/c-Met signaling pathways, promoting formation of new synapses and dendritic spines. Crosses the blood-brain barrier and is orally active — both unusual features for compounds of its type.

What people claim it does

• ·Improved memory and learning
• ·Potential for cognitive recovery after brain injury
• ·Potential anti-aging effect on brain (claimed, not established)

What the research actually says

Strong preclinical (rat) data showing rescue of learning deficits in Alzheimer's models. Zero published human clinical trials. The dramatic potency in rodents combined with absence of human safety data is a flag — extraordinary effects in animals often don't translate, and unexpected side effects often appear in humans.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Zero human clinical trial data
• ·Potency in animal models raises unknown-unknown safety concerns
• ·Theoretical tumor-promotion risk through HGF/c-Met activation
• ·Source quality essentially unverifiable

Legal status

Sold as a research chemical. No approval anywhere. Most legitimate research has stalled.

Sources

• McCoy et al. — Dihexa cognitive enhancement (rodent) →

What it is

Epitalon (also Epithalon) is a synthetic four-amino-acid peptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) developed by Russian gerontologist Vladimir Khavinson in the 1980s. He claimed it mimics the effects of epithalamin, a natural hormone from the pineal gland. The peptide has been studied primarily within Russian research institutes and is marketed as a longevity compound.

Plain English

A Russian researcher spent decades arguing that a tiny four-amino-acid peptide can activate telomerase — the enzyme that maintains the protective caps on your chromosomes — and therefore slow biological aging. Russian studies in rats showed lifespan extension. Russian human studies showed reduced mortality. Western researchers have largely been unable to verify these findings. It's either a quiet miracle or a Russian science curiosity.

How it works

Claimed to activate telomerase, the enzyme that extends telomeres (the protective caps on chromosomes that shorten with each cell division). Telomere shortening is one biomarker of cellular aging. Western researchers have raised methodological concerns about the studies showing this effect.

What people claim it does

• ·Extended lifespan (rat studies; uncertain human relevance)
• ·Improved sleep quality
• ·Improved skin elasticity
• ·Enhanced immune function in elderly
• ·Slowed biological aging (heavily marketed)

What the research actually says

Most published studies come from a small group of Russian researchers and have not been replicated by independent Western labs. Rat studies show lifespan extension. Small human trials show reduced mortality in elderly cohorts. The evidence is genuinely uncertain — neither dismissively bad nor strong by Western standards.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Generally well-tolerated in reported studies
• ·Long-term safety in healthy adults not established outside Russian literature
• ·Theoretical cancer concerns from telomerase activation (extending cell life could extend cancer cell life too) — unproven but worth noting

Legal status

Not approved anywhere outside Russia for any indication. Sold widely as a research chemical.

Sources

• Khavinson — Epithalon research overview →

What it is

FOXO4-DRI is a synthetic peptide designed to disrupt the interaction between FOXO4 and p53 proteins, selectively inducing apoptosis (cell death) in senescent cells. It was developed by researchers at the Erasmus University Medical Center and published in Cell in 2017. It's an experimental compound with no clinical development pathway yet active.

Plain English

Senescent cells are cells that have stopped dividing but refuse to die — sometimes called 'zombie cells.' They accumulate with age and secrete inflammatory signals that damage surrounding tissue. FOXO4-DRI was designed in a lab to specifically tell these zombie cells to kill themselves, while leaving healthy cells alone. In mice, it reversed several markers of aging. In humans, it has never been tested.

How it works

Disrupts the protein-protein interaction between FOXO4 and p53. In senescent cells, this releases p53 from sequestration and triggers apoptosis. Healthy cells with normal p53 dynamics are not affected.

What people claim it does

• ·Reversal of frailty markers (mice)
• ·Improved fur quality and physical activity (mice)
• ·Restored kidney function (mice)
• ·Anti-aging effects (extrapolated, unproven in humans)

What the research actually says

One landmark 2017 paper in Cell showed striking effects in aged mice. Follow-up research has been limited and the compound has not advanced to human trials. The senolytics field as a whole is promising but young, and FOXO4-DRI specifically remains an experimental tool rather than a validated therapy.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Zero human safety data
• ·Senolytic activity could affect cell populations with unknown effects
• ·p53 modulation has cancer-relevant implications
• ·Source quality in grey market essentially unverifiable

Legal status

Not approved anywhere. Available only as a research chemical of questionable provenance.

Sources

• Baar et al. — Cell 2017 paper →

What it is

GHK-Cu is a tripeptide (three amino acids: glycine-histidyl-lysine) that naturally binds copper in the body. It is present in human plasma, saliva, and urine, and levels decline significantly with age (from ~200 ng/mL in your 20s to ~80 ng/mL in your 60s).

Plain English

Your blood contains a tiny three-letter protein that grabs onto copper and carries it where the body needs it. That protein is GHK-Cu. As you age, you have less of it, and tissue repair slows down. The pitch is: replace what you've lost, and you get faster skin healing, better collagen, and (some claim) other anti-aging benefits.

How it works

Activates genes involved in collagen synthesis, anti-inflammatory pathways, and antioxidant defense. Also stimulates blood vessel formation and acts as a copper-delivery vehicle for cellular processes that require copper as a cofactor.

What people claim it does

• ·Improved skin firmness and reduced wrinkles (best-established use)
• ·Faster wound healing
• ·Hair regrowth (some clinical evidence)
• ·Anti-inflammatory effects
• ·Modulation of skin pigmentation

What the research actually says

GHK-Cu has solid evidence as a topical skincare ingredient — multiple clinical trials show improvements in wrinkles, elasticity, and skin healing. It's been an FDA-approved cosmetic ingredient for decades. Systemic effects (from injection) have much less clinical research; most claims for anti-aging benefits via injection come from in-vitro and animal data.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Topical use: very low risk profile, occasional irritation
• ·Injected: copper toxicity theoretically possible with chronic high dosing (Wilson's disease patients should avoid)
• ·Excess copper can interfere with zinc absorption

Legal status

Approved as a cosmetic ingredient. Sold widely in skincare. Injectable forms are not approved by FDA and are sold as research chemicals.

Sources

• Pickart & Margolina — GHK-Cu review →

What it is

IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3 Insulin-like Growth Factor 1) is a modified version of natural human IGF-1, engineered with two amino acid substitutions plus a 13-amino-acid N-terminal extension. The modifications make it ~3x more potent and dramatically extend its half-life by reducing its binding to IGF-binding proteins. It is a research reagent used in cell culture and is not approved for human use.

Plain English

Your body makes a hormone called IGF-1 that does most of the actual growth/anabolic work people credit to growth hormone. Normal IGF-1 gets bound up by carrier proteins almost immediately. IGF-1 LR3 was engineered for lab use to evade those carriers, making it far more potent. Bodybuilders started using it for the same reason — but the modifications that make it useful in petri dishes can be problematic in living humans.

How it works

Activates IGF-1 receptors throughout the body, driving cell growth, protein synthesis, and glucose uptake. The 'LR3' modifications keep it free in circulation longer, giving sustained signaling rather than pulsed.

What people claim it does

• ·Increased muscle hyperplasia (new muscle cells, not just bigger ones — claimed)
• ·Improved recovery from training
• ·Fat loss
• ·Anti-aging effects (claimed)

What the research actually says

Native IGF-1 is well-studied; pediatric formulations (Increlex) are FDA-approved for IGF-1 deficiency in children. The LR3 variant specifically has minimal human clinical research. Sustained-elevated IGF-1 levels in adults are associated with increased cancer risk in epidemiological studies — a meaningful concern.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) — can be severe
• ·Sustained IGF-1 elevation linked to cancer risk in epidemiological studies
• ·Banned by WADA
• ·Cardiac hypertrophy concerns with chronic use
• ·Possible jaw/facial bone growth (acromegaly-like effects) with chronic use

Legal status

Sold as a research chemical for cell culture. Increlex (recombinant IGF-1) is prescription-only for pediatric growth disorders. Banned by WADA.

Sources

• Tomas et al. — IGF-1 LR3 biochemistry →

What it is

Ipamorelin is a synthetic pentapeptide (5 amino acids) and a selective agonist of the ghrelin/growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR). It causes the pituitary gland to release a pulse of growth hormone. Unlike other GH secretagogues, it does NOT significantly raise cortisol, prolactin, or appetite hormones.

Plain English

There's a hormone called ghrelin that, among other jobs, tells your pituitary to release a burst of growth hormone. Ipamorelin imitates ghrelin at just one of its jobs — the GH-release one — without triggering the hunger or stress side effects. The result is a clean GH pulse.

How it works

Selectively activates GHSR-1a receptors on pituitary somatotrophs, triggering GH release through the same pathway as endogenous ghrelin. Highly selective binding profile is why it doesn't affect cortisol or prolactin like older secretagogues did.

What people claim it does

• ·Improved sleep depth (GH releases mostly during slow-wave sleep)
• ·Better recovery from training
• ·Subtle improvements in body composition over months
• ·Often stacked with CJC-1295 for synergistic effect

What the research actually says

Clinical trials have shown clean GH pulses without affecting cortisol or prolactin — confirming the selectivity claim. It was originally studied for treating post-operative gut paralysis (ileus), where it advanced to Phase III before being discontinued for commercial reasons, not safety. Long-term studies in healthy adults are limited.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Generally well-tolerated in short-term clinical trials
• ·Mild headaches and water retention reported
• ·Long-term safety at recreational doses not established
• ·Banned by WADA

Legal status

Sold as a research chemical. Reached Phase III clinical trials but never commercially approved.

Sources

• Raun et al. — Ipamorelin pharmacology →

What it is

Kisspeptin-10 is a 10-amino-acid fragment of the kisspeptin protein, which is encoded by the KISS1 gene. Kisspeptin is the master upstream regulator of the reproductive hormone axis — without functional kisspeptin signaling, puberty doesn't happen. It's studied as both a research tool and a potential therapy for reproductive disorders.

Plain English

Every hormone cascade that controls human reproduction starts with kisspeptin. The pituitary's release of LH and FSH, which trigger testosterone in men and the menstrual cycle in women, are all downstream of kisspeptin signaling. The interesting thing about supplementing it: it acts like a 'restart button' for the natural pathway, rather than overriding the system the way exogenous hormones do.

How it works

Binds to the GPR54 (KISS1R) receptor on hypothalamic neurons, triggering release of GnRH, which in turn drives LH and FSH from the pituitary, which then stimulates the gonads. It's the most upstream lever you can pull on the reproductive system.

What people claim it does

• ·Increased natural testosterone production
• ·Improved sexual response and libido
• ·Treatment of hypogonadism without exogenous testosterone
• ·Potential utility in fertility treatments

What the research actually says

Active area of clinical research, particularly for hypothalamic infertility and hypogonadism. Several published clinical trials show meaningful effects on LH, testosterone, and reported sexual arousal. Not yet FDA-approved for any indication, but the pathway is well-characterized and the research is rigorous.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Generally well-tolerated in clinical trial settings
• ·Headache and flushing reported
• ·Long-term effects on natural HPG axis unknown
• ·Quality and purity of grey-market sources unreliable

Legal status

Not approved for any indication. Used in clinical research settings; sold elsewhere as a research chemical.

Sources

• Dhillo et al. — Kisspeptin clinical research →

What it is

KLOW is a compounded peptide blend, typically formulated as 80 mg total: BPC-157 + TB-500 + GHK-Cu (the Wolverine Stack) plus 10 mg of KPV. It is not a standardized pharmaceutical product — the exact ratios and formulation vary by compounding source. Each component is itself a research chemical, and no clinical trials of this specific 4-peptide blend exist.

Plain English

KLOW is what happens when you take three peptides commonly used for healing and recovery (the Wolverine Stack) and add KPV — a small anti-inflammatory peptide — to specifically dampen inflammation while the other three drive tissue repair. The theory: BPC-157 and TB-500 do the heavy lifting on tissue repair, GHK-Cu supports skin and copper-dependent processes, and KPV puts a lid on the inflammation that often slows healing. No clinical trial has tested this exact blend.

How it works

Combined mechanism: BPC-157 promotes angiogenesis and tissue repair; TB-500 supports cell migration to injury sites; GHK-Cu modulates collagen synthesis and inflammation; KPV downregulates inflammatory cytokines (especially TNF-α and IL-1). The theoretical synergy is that healing and anti-inflammation happen on parallel pathways, addressing tissue repair from multiple angles simultaneously.

What people claim it does

• ·Comprehensive tissue repair and recovery
• ·Reduced inflammation alongside healing
• ·Faster recovery from soft-tissue injuries
• ·Used by some athletes and bodybuilders during recovery phases

What the research actually says

ZERO clinical trials of the KLOW blend exist. The individual components each have their own (highly variable) evidence base — see the entries for BPC-157, TB-500, GHK-Cu, and KPV elsewhere on this page. Any claims about synergistic effects of the blend specifically are theoretical and unvalidated.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·All risks of each component peptide stack together — see individual entries
• ·Compounded blends are only as good as the compounding pharmacy that made them
• ·No standardization across sources — what you get from one supplier may differ significantly from another
• ·No long-term human safety data for this specific combination

Legal status

Not a single approved product. Sold by compounding pharmacies and research-chemical suppliers as a custom blend. Legal status of each component varies.

Sources

• See BPC-157, TB-500, GHK-Cu, and KPV entries for component-specific sources →

What it is

KPV is a tripeptide (lysine-proline-valine) corresponding to the C-terminal sequence of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Despite its origin from α-MSH, KPV does not have melanocortin receptor effects — instead, it acts directly on inflammatory pathways. It has been studied for inflammatory bowel disease, allergic skin reactions, and wound healing.

Plain English

α-MSH is a hormone with a lot of jobs, including potent anti-inflammatory effects. KPV is the last three amino acids of α-MSH — the part that carries the anti-inflammatory effect without the pigment-changing or appetite effects. The result is a tiny, simple peptide that quiets inflammation in specific tissues, particularly the gut and skin.

How it works

Downregulates inflammatory cytokines, particularly TNF-α and IL-1β. Inhibits NF-κB signaling. Has direct anti-inflammatory effects on epithelial tissues (gut, skin). Mechanism is independent of melanocortin receptors despite the peptide's origin.

What people claim it does

• ·Reduced inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease (gut-targeted use)
• ·Reduced skin inflammation in dermatitis
• ·Anti-inflammatory adjunct in healing protocols
• ·Pairs with BPC-157 for combined healing + anti-inflammatory effects

What the research actually says

Animal model evidence is strong for IBD and dermatitis applications. A few small human studies suggest oral KPV has effects on gut inflammation. Topical use for skin conditions has limited but supportive human data. Not approved for any indication.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Very low side effect profile reported across studies
• ·Long-term safety not established
• ·As with all grey-market peptides, source quality varies

Legal status

Not approved for any indication. Sold as a research chemical and through some compounding pharmacies.

Sources

• Kannengiesser et al. — KPV in IBD models →

What it is

LL-37 is a 37-amino-acid antimicrobial peptide produced by human cells (especially neutrophils, epithelial cells, and macrophages) as part of the innate immune system. It's encoded by the CAMP gene and is the only human cathelicidin. Synthetic LL-37 is sold as a research chemical and studied for therapeutic applications.

Plain English

Your immune system makes its own antibiotics — small protein chains that punch holes in bacterial cell membranes. LL-37 is the most studied of these in humans. Synthetic LL-37 was developed to test whether boosting this natural antimicrobial system could help with chronic infections, slow-healing wounds, and inflammatory skin conditions where bacterial overgrowth plays a role.

How it works

Direct antimicrobial action: disrupts bacterial cell membranes through electrostatic interactions. Also has immunomodulatory effects: recruits immune cells to infection sites, modulates inflammation, and supports wound healing. Active against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses.

What people claim it does

• ·Antimicrobial activity against drug-resistant bacteria
• ·Wound healing in chronic ulcers
• ·Reduction of inflammatory skin conditions
• ·Antiviral effects (claimed for various viruses, including COVID research)

What the research actually says

Strong basic science evidence for antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects. Several small human clinical trials for chronic wounds and skin conditions show promise. Not approved for any indication. Active research area, but commercial development has been slow.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·At high concentrations LL-37 can be cytotoxic to human cells, not just bacteria
• ·Inflammatory effects may worsen some autoimmune skin conditions (psoriasis specifically)
• ·Long-term safety not established

Legal status

Not approved for any indication. Sold as a research chemical.

Sources

• Vandamme et al. — LL-37 mechanism review →

What it is

MK-677, also called Ibutamoren, is a small-molecule (non-peptide) ghrelin receptor agonist. Unlike peptides that must be injected, MK-677 is orally bioavailable. It's grouped with peptides because it works through the same GH-secretion pathway, but it is technically a different class of compound.

Plain English

MK-677 is the pill version of Ipamorelin's pathway. It mimics ghrelin's effect on the pituitary, triggering growth hormone release. Because it's a small molecule (not a peptide), it survives the stomach and works orally — much more convenient than daily injections. The trade-off: it also activates the hunger side of ghrelin's job, so appetite goes up.

How it works

Binds GHSR-1a, the same receptor activated by ghrelin and ipamorelin. Sustained activation produces elevated GH and IGF-1 levels throughout the day. Oral bioavailability makes it functionally different from injectable secretagogues — it provides constant elevation rather than pulses.

What people claim it does

• ·Improved sleep quality
• ·Increased appetite (helpful for some, problem for others)
• ·Modest lean muscle gain over months of use
• ·Improved bone density
• ·Convenient daily oral dose

What the research actually says

Multiple human clinical trials show MK-677 elevates GH and IGF-1 sustainably. A 2-year trial in elderly adults showed muscle and bone density improvements. Notable concerns from trials: appetite increase, mild insulin resistance increase, possible water retention. It was studied for sarcopenia and frailty but never approved.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Increased appetite — significant for many users
• ·Water retention and bloating
• ·Mild insulin resistance with chronic use (relevant for metabolic health)
• ·Possible increased cortisol at high doses
• ·Banned by WADA
• ·Long-term use unstudied beyond ~2 years

Legal status

Not FDA-approved. Sold widely as a research chemical. Banned by WADA.

Sources

• Nass et al. — MK-677 2-year trial in elderly →

What it is

Mod GRF 1-29 is a modified analog of the first 29 amino acids of growth hormone-releasing hormone. It contains four amino acid substitutions that increase potency and resistance to enzymatic degradation, but unlike 'CJC-1295 with DAC,' it does NOT have the drug affinity complex (DAC) extension that gives the full CJC-1295 its week-long half-life. Confusingly, Mod GRF 1-29 is also sometimes sold as 'CJC-1295' or 'CJC-1295 without DAC' — naming is a mess in the grey market.

Plain English

There are two molecules that get called 'CJC-1295' depending on who you ask. The long version (with DAC) lasts a week per shot. The short version (without DAC, also called Mod GRF 1-29) lasts about 30 minutes and is the one that, paired with Ipamorelin, gives you a clean GH pulse rather than sustained elevation. Most 'CJC + Ipamorelin' stacks you see referenced are actually using Mod GRF 1-29.

How it works

Binds GHRH receptors on the pituitary, triggering GH release. The lack of DAC means it clears quickly (~30 min half-life), so you get a discrete pulse rather than days of elevated GH. This pulse mimics natural physiology better than the long-acting version.

What people claim it does

• ·Clean, pulsed GH release (matches natural physiology)
• ·Synergizes with Ipamorelin for stronger GH pulse
• ·Less water retention than long-acting GH stimulation
• ·Better sleep quality (when timed before bed)

What the research actually says

The native compound (CJC-1295 without DAC) and longer-acting variant (CJC-1295 with DAC) both have published Phase I/II data showing meaningful GH and IGF-1 elevation. Most clinical evidence is for the long-acting version. The short-acting variant's evidence is mostly extrapolated from the long-acting parent compound.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Same risks as CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin entry
• ·Naming confusion in grey market: 'CJC-1295' sold to you may be either variant
• ·Water retention and tingling at higher doses

Legal status

Sold as a research chemical, frequently under multiple names. Banned by WADA.

Sources

• Teichman et al. — CJC-1295 Phase II trial (parent compound) →

What it is

MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA type-c) is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded within mitochondrial DNA — making it one of the very few known peptides not encoded by nuclear DNA. It was discovered relatively recently (2015) and is now an active research area in metabolism and aging.

Plain English

Your mitochondria — the energy factories inside every cell — encode their own tiny set of proteins separately from the rest of your DNA. MOTS-c is one of those, and it appears to act as a signal that tells your body how to handle metabolic stress. Levels decline with age and metabolic disease. The pitch: supplement MOTS-c to improve insulin sensitivity, exercise capacity, and metabolic flexibility. The research is genuinely interesting and relatively new.

How it works

Translocates to the nucleus under stress and modulates gene expression related to glucose metabolism, fatty acid oxidation, and AMPK pathway activation. Functions as a mitochondrial-to-nucleus signaling molecule, coordinating metabolic responses to exercise and fasting.

What people claim it does

• ·Improved insulin sensitivity
• ·Enhanced exercise capacity and recovery
• ·Improved metabolic flexibility (switching between fuel sources)
• ·Potential anti-aging effects via AMPK activation
• ·Possible body composition benefits with chronic use

What the research actually says

Animal studies show MOTS-c administration improves glucose tolerance, increases muscle endurance, and reverses age-related metabolic decline. Human research is just beginning — small studies suggest MOTS-c levels correlate with metabolic health and exercise capacity. No large human clinical trials of MOTS-c administration have been published.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Zero published human clinical trials at any dose
• ·Long-term safety completely unknown
• ·Grey-market source authenticity unverifiable
• ·Effects on cancer cells (which often have altered mitochondrial metabolism) unknown

Legal status

Not approved for any indication. Active basic-science research area. Sold as a research chemical of varying quality.

Sources

• Lee et al. — MOTS-c discovery, Cell Metab 2015 →

What it is

NAD+ is not a peptide — it's a coenzyme (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) present in every cell of your body, essential for converting food into cellular energy and for hundreds of enzymatic reactions. It's grouped with peptides on most clinic menus because it's typically administered by injection or IV at similar facilities. NAD+ levels decline with age, and replenishment is studied as an anti-aging strategy.

Plain English

Every cell in your body uses NAD+ to turn food into energy. As you age, NAD+ levels drop — by some estimates ~50% by age 50. Lower NAD+ correlates with reduced mitochondrial function, more cellular damage, and accelerated aging. The pitch: inject or IV-administer NAD+ to restore youthful levels and slow age-related decline. The science is genuinely interesting; the clinical case for systemic supplementation is more debated.

How it works

NAD+ is a cofactor for sirtuins (longevity-associated enzymes), PARP enzymes (DNA repair), and mitochondrial electron transport chain enzymes (energy production). Restoring NAD+ levels should theoretically improve all of these processes. The question is whether injected NAD+ actually raises intracellular levels meaningfully or whether oral precursors (NR, NMN) are more effective.

What people claim it does

• ·Improved energy and reduced fatigue
• ·Better cognitive function and mental clarity
• ·Anti-aging effects (DNA repair, sirtuin activation)
• ·Support for addiction recovery (off-label clinical use)
• ·Improved athletic recovery

What the research actually says

Strong evidence that NAD+ levels decline with age and that restoration improves measures of mitochondrial function in animal models. Human trials of NAD+ precursors (nicotinamide riboside, NMN) have shown safety and modest metabolic effects. Direct IV NAD+ in humans has much less clinical evidence, despite widespread clinic marketing. Whether IV NAD+ raises intracellular NAD+ meaningfully is debated.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·IV NAD+ commonly causes nausea, chest tightness, and flushing during infusion — often described as uncomfortable
• ·Injection site reactions for subcutaneous
• ·Theoretical concerns about feeding cancer cell metabolism (unproven but worth noting)
• ·Expensive — IV protocols can cost $300–800 per session

Legal status

NAD+ itself is a naturally occurring molecule, sold as a dietary supplement (oral precursors) and through compounding pharmacies (injectable). Not FDA-approved for any specific indication.

Sources

• Rajman et al. — NAD+ precursors review →

What it is

Oxytocin is a naturally occurring 9-amino-acid peptide hormone produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary. It's involved in childbirth, lactation, social bonding, and sexual response. Pharmaceutical oxytocin (Pitocin) is FDA-approved for inducing labor. It's increasingly compounded as nasal spray or sublingual lozenges for off-label psychological/social applications.

Plain English

The 'cuddle hormone' — released during childbirth, breastfeeding, hugging, sex, and bonding moments. It got popular in recent years as a nasal spray for couples therapy, autism research, and general social anxiety. The medical use (Pitocin in labor and delivery) is well-established. The 'spray it before a date to feel more connected' use is much more speculative.

How it works

Binds to oxytocin receptors throughout the brain and body. In the brain: modulates amygdala activity (fear/threat assessment), reward circuits, and prosocial behavior. In the body: causes uterine contractions, milk ejection during nursing, and may influence sexual orgasm intensity.

What people claim it does

• ·Increased emotional bonding (couples therapy use)
• ·Reduced social anxiety
• ·Enhanced sexual experience
• ·Anxiolytic effects
• ·Studied in autism for social behavior (mixed results)

What the research actually says

Strong evidence for FDA-approved uses (labor induction, lactation). For psychiatric applications: results are inconsistent and dose-dependent, and the blood-brain barrier penetration of intranasal oxytocin is debated. The hormone clearly does things; whether external supplementation reliably reproduces those effects in humans is less clear.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Generally well-tolerated at low doses
• ·Headache and nasal irritation with intranasal use
• ·Cardiovascular effects at higher doses
• ·Effects may be dose-dependent: low doses prosocial, higher doses may have opposite effects
• ·Long-term effects of chronic supplementation unknown

Legal status

Pitocin (injectable oxytocin) is FDA-approved for obstetric use. Compounded nasal spray and sublingual oxytocin require a prescription but are widely available from compounding pharmacies.

Sources

• Quintana & Guastella — Oxytocin clinical review →

What it is

Pinealon is a synthetic tripeptide (Glu-Asp-Arg) developed by Russian researcher Vladimir Khavinson — the same researcher behind Epitalon. It is part of his class of 'bioregulator peptides' claimed to be short, bioactive sequences that mimic effects of natural regulatory proteins. It is marketed for cognitive enhancement, anti-aging, and neuroprotection.

Plain English

Pinealon is from the same Russian research program that produced Epitalon. The pitch: tiny peptides (just 2-4 amino acids) that act like keys, unlocking specific gene expression patterns associated with healthier aging. Pinealon's claimed niche is brain/cognitive support. Like other Khavinson peptides, the research is primarily Russian, primarily by his group, and not well-replicated by independent Western labs.

How it works

Claimed to interact directly with DNA to upregulate expression of neuroprotective genes. Reported effects include increased antioxidant enzyme activity in brain tissue and reduced oxidative damage to neurons. Mechanism is not well-characterized in Western literature.

What people claim it does

• ·Improved memory and cognitive function
• ·Neuroprotection against oxidative stress
• ·Improved sleep quality
• ·Anti-aging effects on brain tissue (claimed)

What the research actually says

Almost all published research is from Khavinson's group in Russia. Rodent studies show neuroprotective effects in models of oxidative stress and aging. Very limited human data, mostly from small Russian trials. Western independent replication is essentially nonexistent. Same evidence-evaluation caveats as Epitalon apply.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Generally reported as well-tolerated in available studies
• ·Long-term safety not established outside Russian literature
• ·Source quality and authenticity in grey market unreliable
• ·Independent Western validation essentially nonexistent

Legal status

Not approved in the US, EU, or most Western countries. Available in Russia and from research chemical suppliers elsewhere.

Sources

• Khavinson — Bioregulator peptides overview →

What it is

PT-141, sold under the brand name Vyleesi, is an FDA-approved synthetic peptide for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. It is a melanocortin receptor agonist — completely different mechanism than Viagra-style drugs. Approved 2019.

Plain English

Most erectile dysfunction drugs work on blood vessels. PT-141 works on the brain. It activates a circuit involved in sexual desire and arousal, rather than just plumbing. The clinical pitch was for women with low libido that had no obvious physical cause, but it's now widely used off-label in men too.

How it works

Agonist at melanocortin-3 and melanocortin-4 receptors (MC3R and MC4R), which are involved in sexual function, appetite, and skin pigmentation. Activates central nervous system pathways related to sexual arousal independent of vascular function.

What people claim it does

• ·Increased sexual desire (FDA-approved indication for women)
• ·Improved erectile function (off-label use in men)
• ·Effects on arousal independent of physical/vascular function

What the research actually says

Solid evidence base — went through full FDA approval for women. Multiple Phase III trials showed statistically significant improvements in desire and satisfying sexual events. In men, smaller studies have shown improved erectile function, particularly in patients who didn't respond to PDE5 inhibitors (Viagra, Cialis).

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Nausea (most common side effect — affects ~40% of users)
• ·Transient blood pressure elevation
• ·Headache and flushing
• ·Temporary skin darkening with repeated use (melanocortin-related)
• ·Not for use in those with cardiovascular disease

Legal status

Approved as Vyleesi for HSDD in premenopausal women. Prescription required. Grey-market versions are sold as research chemicals.

Sources

• FDA Label — Vyleesi (Bremelanotide) →

What it is

Retatrutide is an experimental peptide drug being developed by Eli Lilly that activates three different metabolic receptors simultaneously: GLP-1, GIP (the same two as tirzepatide), and glucagon. It is not yet FDA-approved but is in late-stage clinical trials. Early results suggest weight loss effects greater than any approved obesity drug to date.

Plain English

If semaglutide is the iPhone of weight-loss drugs and tirzepatide is the iPhone Pro, retatrutide is what's coming next. It hits the two pathways tirzepatide hits PLUS a third one (glucagon) that helps burn fat. Phase II data showed average weight loss of ~24% — substantially more than anything currently available. Not yet approved; almost certainly will be within 1–2 years.

How it works

Triple agonist at GLP-1 receptors (appetite suppression, glycemic control), GIP receptors (insulin sensitization), and glucagon receptors (increased energy expenditure and fat mobilization). The glucagon activity is the novel addition vs tirzepatide.

What people claim it does

• ·Greater weight loss than semaglutide or tirzepatide (~24% in Phase II)
• ·Improved glycemic control
• ·Improved metabolic health markers
• ·Possible benefits for fatty liver disease

What the research actually says

Phase II data published 2023 showed dose-dependent weight loss up to 24% at 48 weeks. Phase III trials are ongoing as of this writing. Safety profile so far appears similar to other GLP-1/GIP drugs (GI side effects). Long-term outcomes data is not yet available.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (very common, especially during dose escalation)
• ·Same boxed warning concerns as other GLP-1 drugs (thyroid C-cell tumors in rodents)
• ·Long-term safety data not yet available
• ·Glucagon activity raises unique theoretical concerns about glucose dynamics
• ·Grey-market product sold as 'retatrutide' is unverified

Legal status

Not yet FDA-approved. In Phase III trials. Grey-market product sold under this name should be treated with extra skepticism re: authenticity and purity.

Sources

• Jastreboff et al. — Retatrutide Phase II, NEJM 2023 →

What it is

Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide (7 amino acids) developed in the 1990s by the Russian Academy of Sciences. It's a synthetic analog of tuftsin, an immune-modulating peptide. It's approved as an anti-anxiety medication in Russia but not in the US, EU, or most of the West.

Plain English

Russian scientists developed a peptide that reduces anxiety without making you drowsy, addicted, or dumb the way benzodiazepines do. It's been used clinically in Russia for decades for generalized anxiety. Outside Russia, the research base is thin — most studies are Russian-language journals that haven't been widely peer-reviewed in Western literature.

How it works

Modulates the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and influences GABAergic signaling indirectly. Also has effects on enkephalin (endogenous opioid) systems. Mechanism is not fully characterized in Western literature.

What people claim it does

• ·Reduced anxiety without sedation
• ·Mild cognitive enhancement (focus, mental clarity)
• ·Improved mood
• ·Non-addictive (claimed)

What the research actually says

Significant clinical use in Russia, with multiple trials showing anxiolytic effects comparable to medazepam (a benzodiazepine) without sedative side effects. Western clinical trial data is essentially nonexistent. Russian study quality and replication standards differ from Western norms, so evidence-evaluation is genuinely uncertain.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Generally reported as low side-effect profile
• ·Long-term safety data outside Russia is essentially unavailable
• ·Quality of grey-market sources highly variable
• ·Not approved by FDA or EMA

Legal status

Approved as a prescription medication in Russia. Sold elsewhere as a research chemical. Possession status varies by country.

Sources

• Kost et al. — Selank pharmacology overview (English summary) →

What it is

Semaglutide is a long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It's a heavily modified version of natural GLP-1 designed to resist breakdown in the body, allowing once-weekly dosing. FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic, 2017) and chronic weight management (Wegovy, 2021).

Plain English

Your gut releases a hormone called GLP-1 after meals that signals 'I'm full, slow down digestion, release some insulin.' Semaglutide is a man-made version of GLP-1 that lasts a full week instead of minutes. The result: profound appetite suppression and improved blood sugar control. The 15% body weight loss numbers from clinical trials are not a marketing exaggeration — they're real and they're consistent.

How it works

Activates GLP-1 receptors throughout the body. Effects include: enhanced insulin secretion in response to meals, suppressed glucagon release, delayed gastric emptying, and centrally-mediated appetite suppression via the hypothalamus.

What people claim it does

• ·Significant weight loss (~15% of body weight average in trials)
• ·Improved glycemic control in type 2 diabetes
• ·Reduced cardiovascular events in high-risk patients (separately demonstrated)
• ·Reduced appetite and food cravings

What the research actually says

Among the most thoroughly studied compounds on this list. STEP, SUSTAIN, and SELECT trial programs cover tens of thousands of patients. Efficacy for weight loss and glycemic control is robust. Long-term safety profile over multiple years is well-characterized.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (very common, especially during dose escalation)
• ·Gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying) — can become severe
• ·Pancreatitis (uncommon but serious)
• ·Black-box warning: thyroid C-cell tumors in rodents (relevance to humans unclear; contraindicated in MEN2 patients)
• ·Muscle mass loss during rapid weight loss
• ·Rebound weight gain on discontinuation

Legal status

Prescription-only. Approved formulations: Ozempic (injectable, diabetes), Wegovy (injectable, weight loss), Rybelsus (oral, diabetes). Grey-market injectable semaglutide is widely sold but legally murky.

Sources

• FDA Label — Wegovy (Semaglutide) →
• STEP 1 Trial — Wilding et al., NEJM 2021 →

What it is

Semax is a synthetic heptapeptide (7 amino acids) developed by the Russian Academy of Sciences. It's an analog of a fragment of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) but, like KPV, doesn't have the hormonal effects of its parent compound. It is approved in Russia for stroke recovery, cognitive enhancement in cerebrovascular disease, and ADHD.

Plain English

Semax is to cognition what Selank is to anxiety: a Russian-developed peptide with decades of clinical use in Russia and very little Western research. Russian clinicians use it for stroke recovery and to improve attention/focus in ADHD. Western nootropic users grab it for cognitive enhancement off-label. The Russian evidence base is meaningful but doesn't fully translate to Western clinical standards.

How it works

Modulates BDNF and NGF expression, dopaminergic signaling, and the limbic system. Has neuroprotective effects in models of ischemia and oxidative stress. Crosses the blood-brain barrier when administered intranasally.

What people claim it does

• ·Improved attention and focus
• ·Enhanced memory and learning
• ·Stroke recovery (Russian approved use)
• ·Neuroprotection
• ·Improved mood

What the research actually says

Russian clinical use is substantial, with multiple trials in stroke recovery and ADHD showing meaningful effects. Western clinical trial data is essentially nonexistent. Same caveats as Selank apply — Russian study quality differs from Western standards, so evidence evaluation is genuinely uncertain.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Generally well-tolerated in reported studies
• ·Long-term safety outside Russian literature not established
• ·Quality of grey-market sources varies

Legal status

Approved as a prescription medication in Russia. Sold elsewhere as a research chemical.

Sources

• Ashmarin et al. — Semax overview →

What it is

Sermorelin is a 29-amino-acid synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH 1-29). It was FDA-approved as Geref in 1990 for treating pediatric growth hormone deficiency, but the brand was discontinued in 2008 (commercial reasons, not safety). It is still widely available through compounding pharmacies for anti-aging and off-label use.

Plain English

Sermorelin is the original, FDA-approved version of what CJC-1295 and similar compounds aim to imitate. It's a shorter, less-modified GHRH analog with a clean clinical track record from its time as an approved pediatric medication. Compounding pharmacies still produce it, and it's widely used in anti-aging clinics as the 'safer, more legitimate' option compared to grey-market GHRH variants.

How it works

Binds to GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotrophs, stimulating endogenous GH secretion. Half-life is short (~10–20 minutes), so dosing typically occurs daily at bedtime to align with the natural nocturnal GH pulse.

What people claim it does

• ·Improved sleep quality
• ·Anti-aging effects (subjective improvements in energy, recovery)
• ·Modest body composition improvements over months
• ·Improved IGF-1 levels (lab marker)

What the research actually says

Solid clinical track record from its FDA-approved years for pediatric GHD. In adults, multiple smaller studies have shown elevation of GH and IGF-1 with sermorelin therapy. The compound is one of the better-studied options on this list.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Injection site reactions (most common)
• ·Mild headache, flushing, dizziness
• ·Generally considered one of the safer GH secretagogues
• ·Long-term effects of chronic adult use not established
• ·Banned by WADA

Legal status

Was FDA-approved as Geref (discontinued 2008). Now available only through compounding pharmacies with a prescription. Grey-market sermorelin also exists.

Sources

• Walker et al. — Sermorelin pediatric trial review →

What it is

TB-500 is a synthetic peptide based on a region of Thymosin Beta-4 (TB4), a protein naturally found in nearly all human cells, with particularly high concentrations in blood platelets and wound fluid. It is sold as a research chemical and is not approved for human use.

Plain English

Your body produces a protein called Thymosin Beta-4 that helps cells migrate to where they're needed during healing — think of it as the GPS that tells cells 'go that way, fix that.' TB-500 is the synthetic version that interested researchers have isolated. The pitch: inject this, and your cells get a better GPS signal toward injured tissue.

How it works

Binds to actin, a structural protein inside cells, and helps cells reorganize their internal scaffolding. This promotes cell migration, blood vessel formation, and tissue repair. Also has anti-inflammatory effects.

What people claim it does

• ·Faster recovery from muscle, tendon, and ligament injuries
• ·Reduced inflammation
• ·Improved flexibility and range of motion
• ·Hair regrowth (limited evidence)

What the research actually says

Animal studies (especially in racehorses, where it has been widely used) show wound-healing and anti-inflammatory effects. The parent compound (full-length Thymosin Beta-4) has been studied in small human trials for ulcer healing and cardiac repair with mixed results. The TB-500 fragment specifically has very limited human research.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·No human safety trials at performance doses
• ·Theoretical tumor-promotion concerns (TB4 is upregulated in some cancers — causation unclear)
• ·Banned by WADA
• ·Source quality wildly variable in grey market

Legal status

Sold as a research chemical; widely used in veterinary (especially equine) medicine. Banned by WADA for human athletic competition.

Sources

• Goldstein et al. — Thymosin Beta-4 review →

What it is

Tesamorelin (brand name Egrifta) is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It was FDA-approved in 2010 for reducing excess abdominal fat in HIV patients with lipodystrophy. It is a 44-amino-acid peptide that stimulates the body's own GH production.

Plain English

Tesamorelin is to GH what Semaglutide is to GLP-1: a heavily modified, longer-acting version of a natural hormone. It tells the pituitary to release growth hormone in a more natural, pulsatile pattern than direct GH injection. It got FDA approval for a specific HIV complication, but it's now widely used off-label for visceral fat reduction in healthy adults.

How it works

Binds GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotrophs, stimulating endogenous GH secretion. The 'natural pulsatile pattern' it produces is closer to physiological GH release than direct rhGH injection.

What people claim it does

• ·Reduced visceral (organ-surrounding) fat — strongest evidence
• ·Improved lipid profile
• ·Better sleep quality
• ·Improved IGF-1 levels (anti-aging claims)

What the research actually says

FDA approval was based on Phase III trials showing ~15-18% reduction in visceral adipose tissue in HIV patients. Subsequent research suggests similar effects in non-HIV adults with abdominal obesity. Clinical evidence for tesamorelin specifically is the strongest of any growth hormone secretagogue on this list.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Injection site reactions (most common side effect)
• ·Joint pain (arthralgia)
• ·Edema and water retention
• ·Elevated IGF-1 — relevant cancer-risk considerations
• ·Glucose intolerance with chronic use (typically mild)
• ·Banned by WADA

Legal status

Prescription-only as Egrifta for HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Off-label use in healthy adults is widespread but technically off-label. Grey-market tesamorelin exists.

Sources

• FDA Label — Egrifta (Tesamorelin) →

What it is

Thymosin Alpha-1 is a naturally occurring 28-amino-acid peptide produced by the thymus gland. The synthetic version is approved in over 35 countries (under brand name Zadaxin) for hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and as an adjunct in cancer treatment and immunocompromised states. It is not FDA-approved in the US.

Plain English

Your thymus gland — an organ that's most active during childhood and shrinks with age — makes a peptide that helps coordinate the immune system. Thymosin Alpha-1 is the synthetic version. Outside the US, it's a real prescription medication used for hepatitis and to support immune function during cancer treatment. In the US, it's sold as a research chemical, but it's one of the most legitimately studied compounds on this list.

How it works

Promotes maturation and activation of T-cells, particularly T-helper cells. Modulates immune signaling, supporting cell-mediated immunity. Has direct antiviral effects through immune potentiation rather than direct viral targeting.

What people claim it does

• ·Improved immune function in immunocompromised individuals
• ·Treatment adjunct for hepatitis B and C
• ·Cancer treatment adjunct (immune support)
• ·Chronic Lyme and chronic infection support (claimed)
• ·General immune resilience

What the research actually says

Substantial clinical research outside the US. Multiple Phase III trials for hepatitis B and C with meaningful efficacy. Cancer adjuvant studies show improved outcomes when combined with conventional treatment. The compound has a robust safety record across decades of clinical use.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·Generally very well-tolerated
• ·Injection site reactions
• ·Rare allergic reactions
• ·Theoretical concerns about over-stimulating immune system in autoimmune conditions

Legal status

Approved in 35+ countries as Zadaxin. Not FDA-approved in the US. Available in the US only through compounding pharmacies or as a research chemical.

Sources

• Costantini et al. — Thymosin Alpha-1 clinical review →

What it is

The Wolverine Stack is a compounded blend of three peptides: BPC-157 (gut/tissue repair), TB-500 (cell migration/repair), and GHK-Cu (collagen/skin). The name references the X-Men character known for rapid healing. Like all blends, it is not a standardized pharmaceutical product; exact ratios vary by source. It is widely used among grey-market athletes and biohackers as a comprehensive recovery protocol.

Plain English

Take the three most-popular healing peptides — one for gut/connective tissue, one for cell migration to injury sites, one for skin/collagen support — and combine them in a single vial. That's the Wolverine Stack. The idea is that the three components hit different parts of the tissue repair process simultaneously, theoretically producing faster or more complete recovery than any one alone. No clinical trial of this exact combination exists.

How it works

Combined: BPC-157 promotes angiogenesis and tendon repair, TB-500 promotes cell migration and reorganization, GHK-Cu modulates collagen synthesis and inflammation. Each pathway is somewhat distinct, so the theoretical case for synergy is plausible — but unvalidated by clinical trial.

What people claim it does

• ·Comprehensive tissue repair across multiple pathways
• ·Faster recovery from injuries and training stress
• ·Improved skin and connective tissue quality
• ·Reduced inflammation

What the research actually says

ZERO clinical trials of the Wolverine Stack blend exist. Each component peptide has its own (variable-quality) evidence base — see entries for BPC-157, TB-500, and GHK-Cu. Claims of synergistic effects are theoretical.

Dosage ranges from studies (informational only — not recommendations)

Reported risks & concerns

• ·All risks of each component peptide stack — see individual entries
• ·Compound quality entirely depends on source
• ·No long-term human safety data for this specific combination
• ·All three components banned by WADA for athletic competition

Legal status

Not a single approved product. Sold by compounding pharmacies and research-chemical suppliers as a custom blend. Each component has its own legal status — see individual entries.

Sources

• See BPC-157, TB-500, and GHK-Cu entries for component-specific sources →