Peptide therapy involves the use of specific peptide compounds to promote healing, increase energy, enhance cognition, and improve overall health and wellbeing. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules in the body. There are many different peptides that can be used therapeutically, each with their own unique mechanisms of action.
The most common peptides used in peptide therapy include BPC-157, TB-500, Thymosin Beta 4, Semax, Selank, LL-37, AOD9604, GHRPs, and GHRH. These peptides have been shown in studies to help with injury recovery, inflammation, immune function, fat loss, and tissue repair.
When starting peptide therapy, it is important to work with a knowledgeable medical provider to determine the right peptide protocol based on health goals and needs. The provider will evaluate current health status, including hormone levels, inflammation markers, and areas of concern. They can then recommend specific peptides and dosing based on the individual's situation.
There are a few main ways that peptides can be administered:
- Subcutaneous injections - This involves injecting the peptide solution into the subcutaneous tissue, the fatty layer between the skin and muscle. Areas like the abdomen, thighs, or arms work well for subq injections. Peptides like BPC-157, TB-500, AOD9604, and GHRPs are often injected subcutaneously.
- Intramuscular injections - Some peptides, like CJC-1295/Ipamorelin blends, are injected intramuscularly into larger muscles like the deltoids, glutes, or quads. Intramuscular injections allow for slower absorption into the bloodstream.
- Intranasal sprays - Peptides like Semax and Selank can be administered with an intranasal spray for absorption through the nasal membranes. This allows them to cross the blood-brain barrier for cognitive effects.
- Oral peptides - A few select peptides like BPC-157 and Thymosin Beta 4 have oral formulations for absorption through the GI tract. Oral peptides typically require much higher dosing compared to injections.
Once the type of peptide and injection/administration method are determined, a dosing protocol and schedule will be developed. For most peptides, dosing ranges from 200-500 mcg per injection, 1-3 times per day. Cycling the peptides by doing a regimen for 4-12 weeks then taking a break is often recommended to allow the body to reset and avoid receptor desensitization.
When injecting peptides, proper injection technique and rotation of sites is important to avoid irritation or infection. Use a small needle like a 30g insulin syringe and follow aseptic technique when drawing up and injecting the peptide solution. Rotate between body quadrants if doing multiple daily injections.
It is important to source pharmaceutical-grade peptides from reputable suppliers that provide 3rd party purity testing. This ensures the highest quality and safety when using peptide therapy.
As with any medical therapy, it is important to monitor progress and adjust the protocol as needed under the guidance of your peptide therapy provider. Some individuals may need higher or more frequent dosing while others respond well to lower doses. Taking notes on the effects and side effects and communicating regularly with your provider allows for optimal results.
Potential side effects depend on the specific peptide but may include site irritation, headaches, fatigue, or nausea in some cases. More serious side effects are rare if proper dosing guidelines are followed.
In summary, by working with an experienced medical professional at a clinic like The Hormone Hub, peptide therapy can be administered safely and effectively to achieve improvements in muscle gain, fat loss, injury healing, immune function, skin health, and more based on the peptides selected for your regimen. When high quality peptides are combined with professional guidance, this innovative treatment holds great potential for enhancing health, function, and overall vitality.
