Peptide Therapy
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules in the body. Over 7,000 naturally occurring peptides have been identified in humans. A familiar example is insulin, which regulates blood sugar.
Peptide-based therapies are being explored for their role in supporting tissue repair and cellular communication. Some peptides, such as growth hormone secretagogues, are under investigation for their potential to influence muscle recovery, fat metabolism, immune modulation, and other physiological processes.
As of 2015, the FDA has approved over 60 peptide-based drugs for various specific conditions. These medications have undergone clinical testing for safety and efficacy in their approved uses. Many more peptides are in early stages of research or clinical trials.
Some healthcare providers offer peptide therapy as part of integrative or experimental approaches to health optimization. These therapies are not FDA-approved for general use and are considered investigational.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Peptide therapy is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Growth hormone stimulating peptides are some of the most popular peptide therapies, and are called growth hormone secretogogues.
Resources
Therapeutic peptides: current applications and future directions