What is Peptide Therapy?

What is Peptide Therapy?

Written by: Olivia A Ferragamo

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Peptide Therapy has been gaining more and more popularity recently in the world of anti-ageing, fitness and medicine. They are powerful tools to improve overall health and physical performance. Let's dive into what exactly peptide therapy is and how it works.

What are Peptides?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids which are the building blocks of protein. These chains are between two and fifty amino acids and act as molecules that interact with cells on how to function. Peptides are essential to hormone regulation, immune function, metabolism and cell repair.


Peptides are naturally found in the human body, but can also be made in laboratories. Synthetic peptides are made to enhance the naturally occurring peptides in our bodies using them to target specific therapeutic purposes.

How Does Peptide Therapy Work?

Specific Peptides are used to regulate and enhance various functions. They are typically administered via injections and some are available in oral, topical or nasal form. Once in the body they interact with receptors to trigger specific responses such as repairing damaged tissues, enhancing cellular communication or enhanced hormone production.

What are the benefits of Peptide Therapy?

Depending on the type of peptide used there are a wide range of potential benefits.

1. Weight loss and Metabolism

Peptides such as AOD-9604 and CJC-1295 are commonly used to boost metabolism, enhance fat loss and increase lean muscle mass. They work by accelerating the breakdown of fat and enhancing energy expenditure.


2. Anti-Ageing

Collagen Peptides and growth hormones are used to help with skin elasticity thus reducing wrinkles and promoting hair growth. They also increase overall vitality by stimulating the body’s natural growth hormone production.


3. Athletic Performance and Recovery

Peptides BPC-157 and TB-500 are commonly used by athletes to enhance muscle recovery, improve endurance and reduce inflammation. They help with repairing ligaments and muscle tissue, helping athletes recover faster from training or an injury.


4. Cognitive Health

Peptides such as Selank and Dihexa are used to enhance cognitive function. They may help with memory, focus and brain health overall. They are being studied as a possible treatment for Alzheimer's disease.


5. Immune Function

Peptide Thymosin Alpha-1 has had some great results supporting immune function. They have been shown to help ward off infections and may even be useful at supporting autoimmune diseases. 

What are the types of Peptides used in Therapy?

There are a lot of different peptides each with their unique function. The most commonly used ones are:


  • Growth Hormone Releasing Peptides (GHRPs): These peptides are used for tissue repair, fat loss and muscle growth due to the stimulating effect they have on our own natural growth hormone.
  • BPC-157: These peptides are particularly beneficial for ligaments, tendons and the gut lining.
  • Thymosin Beta-4 (TB-500): Accelerates wound healing and reduces inflammation in the body.
  • Melanotan II: This peptide protects the skin against UV radiation as well as accelerating skin tanning.
  • CJC-1295: Improves muscle mass and recovery whilst stimulating growth hormone secretion. 

Is Peptide Therapy Safe?

Peptide therapy is generally considered safe when prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional. However, like most medical treatments there can be side effects such as irritation at the injection site, fatigue or nausea. Reason why It is really important to undergo therapy with a licensed professional who will be able to monitor the correct dosing and therefore minimise the risks and side effects.


Peptide Therapy is a good option for a wide variety of individuals looking to:

  • Enhance athletic performance
  • Combat signs of ageing
  • Accelerate injury recovery time.
  • Improve immune function
  • Address Chronic Inflammation or Hormonal imbalances.

As research advances into Peptide therapy the new areas of interest seem to be in cancer treatment, cardiovascular health and mental health disorders. New clinical studies are showing great promise as an effective treatment in these fields.


Peptides are a new and innovative approach to health and wellness using the body’s natural processes to promote healing, performance and vitality. Whether you are looking at slowing down the ageing process or seeking to enhance your physical performance, peptides offer a personalised solution. As always consult with a medical professional when embarking on any new treatment as it is very important to get the correct dosing to ensure safety and efficacy. 


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This article is for informational purposes only, even if and regardless of whether it features the advice of physicians and medical practitioners. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. The views expressed in this article are the views of the expert and do not necessarily represent the views of Healf