How-To17 min read

How to Choose the Right Peptide for Your Goals

The peptide space has a clutter problem. Dozens of compounds, overlapping claims, variable evidence quality, and vendor-driven marketing that makes everything sound like a miracle.

The peptide space has a clutter problem. Dozens of compounds, overlapping claims, variable evidence quality, and vendor-driven marketing that makes everything sound like a miracle. If you've ever searched "best peptide for [your goal]" and ended up more confused than when you started, this guide is for you.

Here's what we'll do: walk through every major goal people pursue with peptides — fat loss, muscle growth, injury healing, cognitive function, skin rejuvenation, sleep, and longevity — and give you an honest assessment of which peptides have real evidence, which are promising but preliminary, and which are mostly hype. We'll also cover how to think about evidence levels, cost, and the practical decision of where to start.

Table of Contents

How to Read This Guide

For each goal, we'll cover:

  1. Top picks — the peptides with the best evidence-to-risk ratio for that goal
  2. Evidence level — rated as Strong (multiple human RCTs), Moderate (limited human data + strong animal data), or Preliminary (animal data only or very early human studies)
  3. How they work — brief mechanism, not a biochemistry lecture
  4. Practical notes — administration, timing, cost ballpark
  5. What to watch out for — honest limitations and safety considerations

One universal rule before we start: talk to a physician before using any peptide. This guide is educational. It's not a prescription. The how to talk to your doctor about peptides guide can help you start that conversation.

Fat Loss

The Clear Winner: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

If your primary goal is losing a significant amount of body fat, the evidence here isn't close.

Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic)

  • Evidence level: Strong
  • What it does: Mimics the gut hormone GLP-1, reducing appetite, slowing gastric emptying, and altering food reward signaling in the brain
  • Results: Average 15-17% body weight loss over 68 weeks in the STEP trials. Some patients lose more; some less.
  • Administration: Once-weekly subcutaneous injection
  • FDA-approved: Yes, for chronic weight management (Wegovy) and type 2 diabetes (Ozempic)
  • Cost: $800-1,300/month without insurance; varies widely with coverage
  • Downsides: Nausea (especially during dose escalation), potential muscle loss (26-40% of weight lost can be lean tissue), weight regain after stopping, cost

Tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro)

  • Evidence level: Strong
  • What it does: Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist — targets two hormonal pathways instead of one
  • Results: Up to 22.5% body weight loss in the SURMOUNT-1 trial at the highest dose. Currently the most effective pharmacological weight loss agent available.
  • Administration: Once-weekly subcutaneous injection
  • FDA-approved: Yes, for chronic weight management (Zepbound) and type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro)
  • Cost: Similar to semaglutide
  • Downsides: Similar GI side effects, same muscle loss concern, same regain risk

For a head-to-head breakdown, see our semaglutide vs. tirzepatide comparison.

Liraglutide (Saxenda)

  • Evidence level: Strong
  • What it does: Earlier-generation daily GLP-1 agonist
  • Results: Average 5-8% body weight loss — less than semaglutide or tirzepatide
  • Administration: Daily subcutaneous injection
  • Why you might choose it: Lower cost, established long-term safety data, may be sufficient if you need to lose less weight

Secondary Options

AOD-9604

  • Evidence level: Moderate
  • What it does: A fragment (amino acids 177-191) of human growth hormone. Stimulates fat metabolism without affecting blood sugar or growth
  • Results: Some clinical trial data shows modest fat reduction. Not as dramatic as GLP-1 agonists.
  • Why you might choose it: Doesn't suppress appetite — works through fat metabolism directly. Some people combine it with GLP-1 medications for complementary effects.
  • Limitations: Less clinical data than GLP-1 agonists, not FDA-approved for weight loss

Tesamorelin

  • Evidence level: Moderate (for specific indication)
  • What it does: GHRH analog that increases GH secretion, specifically reducing visceral (abdominal) fat
  • Results: FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Reduces trunk fat by approximately 18% over 26 weeks in that population.
  • Why you might choose it: Targets visceral fat specifically, which is the metabolically dangerous kind
  • Limitations: FDA approval is narrow (HIV lipodystrophy only), off-label use for general fat loss is less well-supported

Our Take on Fat Loss

For most people, the GLP-1 agonists are the right starting point. The evidence is overwhelming, they're FDA-approved, and the results are clinically meaningful. Start with semaglutide if cost/access allows; tirzepatide if you need maximum efficacy. Use liraglutide if you prefer established long-term data or need a lower-cost option. See our full evidence-based fat loss peptide guide for detailed protocols.

Muscle Growth and Body Composition

GH-Releasing Peptides: The Main Players

No peptide will replace training, nutrition, and sleep for building muscle. But GH-releasing peptides can support the hormonal environment that drives muscle protein synthesis and recovery.

Ipamorelin

  • Evidence level: Moderate
  • What it does: Selective growth hormone-releasing peptide (GHRP) that mimics ghrelin at the pituitary without raising cortisol or prolactin significantly
  • Results: Increases GH pulses cleanly. Measurable body composition changes typically take 4-12 weeks.
  • Administration: Subcutaneous injection, 2-3 times daily (fasted AM, pre-bed, optional pre-workout)
  • Why it's the top pick: Cleanest side effect profile of any GHRP. Doesn't cause the extreme hunger of GHRP-6 or the cortisol bump of GHRP-2.
  • Best paired with: CJC-1295 (no DAC) for synergistic GH release

CJC-1295 (no DAC)

  • Evidence level: Moderate
  • What it does: GHRH analog — tells the pituitary to release GH. Works upstream of GHRPs.
  • Results: When combined with ipamorelin, produces GH pulses 3-5x greater than either alone
  • Administration: Subcutaneous injection, usually paired with ipamorelin
  • DAC vs. no DAC: The "with DAC" version has a 6-8 day half-life, producing continuous (non-pulsatile) GH elevation. Most practitioners prefer "no DAC" for more natural pulsatile GH patterns.

Sermorelin

  • Evidence level: Moderate
  • What it does: Another GHRH analog, shorter half-life than CJC-1295
  • Results: A 6-week study in healthy elderly men showed increased muscle strength and improved muscle bioenergetics
  • Why you might choose it: More natural-feeling GH release pattern, well-established safety profile, available through many compounding pharmacies

MK-677 (Ibutamoren)

  • Evidence level: Moderate
  • What it does: Oral GH secretagogue (not technically a peptide). Stimulates ghrelin receptors.
  • Results: Increases GH and IGF-1 for up to 24 hours per dose
  • Downsides: Significant appetite increase, water retention, potential blood sugar issues. Not FDA-approved.
  • Why some choose it: Oral dosing is simpler than injections

Our Take on Muscle Growth

The CJC-1295 + ipamorelin stack is the most rational starting point. It produces amplified, pulsatile GH release with the fewest side effects. Combine with serious resistance training and adequate protein (1.4-1.6 g/kg/day). Don't expect steroid-level muscle gains — these peptides optimize your hormonal environment, not override it. See our muscle growth peptide guide for protocols.

Injury Healing and Recovery

The Healing Peptides

BPC-157

  • Evidence level: Preliminary (strong animal data, very limited human data)
  • What it does: Derived from a protective compound in human gastric juice. Promotes angiogenesis, fibroblast activity, and growth hormone receptor expression in tendon tissue. Reduces inflammation.
  • Results (animal studies): Accelerated healing of tendons, ligaments, muscles, gut tissue, and bone in rodent models. Biomechanical testing showed improved tendon load-bearing by day 14.
  • Results (human data): One retrospective study of 16 patients with knee pain showed 87.5% reported significant relief after BPC-157 injections. No large RCTs exist.
  • Administration: Subcutaneous injection near injury site (most common) or oral for gut-related applications. 250-500 mcg, 1-2 times daily, cycled 4-8 weeks.
  • Regulatory status: Not FDA-approved. Classified as Category 2 by FDA (cannot be compounded commercially). WADA-banned.
  • Honest assessment: The animal data is genuinely impressive across dozens of studies. But the absence of rigorous human trials is a real gap, not a minor footnote.

TB-500

  • Evidence level: Preliminary
  • What it does: Synthetic fragment of thymosin beta-4. Promotes cell migration, blood vessel formation, and tissue regeneration.
  • Results: Improved wound healing, cardiac protection, and muscle repair in animal models. Used extensively in equine veterinary medicine.
  • Administration: Subcutaneous injection, typically 2-5 mg, 2-3 times weekly during loading phase
  • Honest assessment: Similar evidence profile to BPC-157. Strong preclinical rationale, minimal human data. Often combined with BPC-157 for a potential synergistic effect.

BPC-157 + TB-500: The "Wolverine Stack"

Many practitioners combine these two peptides for significant injuries. The rationale: BPC-157 provides vascular and anti-inflammatory support while TB-500 drives structural tissue regeneration. A small human study (Lee and Padgett, 2021) found that BPC-157 + TB-4 knee injections provided comparable relief to BPC-157 alone, but sample sizes were too small for definitive conclusions.

Our Take on Healing

If you have a soft tissue injury that isn't responding to conventional treatment, BPC-157 is the most researched option in this category — just be clear-eyed that "most researched" still means predominantly animal data. Work with a physician who understands peptide therapy. For proper preparation and storage, follow evidence-based protocols.

Cognitive Function

The Nootropic Peptides

Semax

  • Evidence level: Moderate (approved and used clinically in Russia; limited Western clinical data)
  • What it does: Synthetic analog of ACTH(4-10). Increases BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) approximately 1.4-fold in the hippocampus. Modulates dopamine and serotonin signaling.
  • Results: Approved in Russia for stroke recovery, cognitive disorders, and memory support since the 1990s. Healthy human subjects showed improved attention and short-term memory in pilot studies. An fMRI study (52 participants) confirmed measurable changes in brain functional connectivity within 20 minutes of administration.
  • Administration: Intranasal spray, typically 0.1% solution
  • Limitations: Most research comes from Russian institutions. Western clinical trials are scarce. Not FDA-approved.

Selank

  • Evidence level: Moderate (same Russian clinical history as Semax)
  • What it does: Synthetic nootropic derived from tuftsin (an immunomodulatory peptide). Modulates GABA-A receptors — providing anxiolytic effects comparable to benzodiazepines but without sedation, tolerance, or dependence.
  • Results: Animal studies show improved learning in subjects with poor baseline learning ability. Human studies show anxiolytic effects without cognitive impairment.
  • Administration: Intranasal spray
  • Best for: Anxiety-related cognitive impairment, stress-related focus issues — the "calm cognition" peptide
  • Limitations: Same as Semax — mostly Russian research, limited Western validation

DSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide)

  • Evidence level: Preliminary
  • What it does: Modulates sleep architecture, which indirectly affects cognitive function through improved sleep quality
  • More detail: See the Sleep section below

Our Take on Cognition

Semax and Selank are the most interesting nootropic peptides, with decades of clinical use in Russia and reasonable safety profiles. The main caveat: most research comes from a small number of institutions, and independent Western replication is limited. If cognitive performance is your priority, Semax (for focus and memory) or Selank (for anxiety and calm focus) are the logical starting points — but manage expectations and discuss with your doctor.

Skin Rejuvenation and Anti-Aging

The Topical Peptide: GHK-Cu

GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide)

  • Evidence level: Moderate (multiple human clinical studies, though mostly small)
  • What it does: Naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in blood plasma. Stimulates collagen I synthesis, elastin production, glycosaminoglycan synthesis, and fibroblast function. Influences over 4,000 genes related to tissue repair.
  • Results: A 12-week clinical study showed improved collagen production in 70% of women treated with GHK-Cu, compared to 50% with vitamin C cream and 40% with retinoic acid. A 2023 double-blind study (60 patients) showed a 22% increase in skin firmness and 16% reduction in fine lines after 12 weeks.
  • Age factor: Plasma GHK-Cu levels drop from approximately 200 ng/ml at age 20 to about 80 ng/ml by age 60.
  • Administration: Topical serums and creams (most common and practical for skin). Also available as subcutaneous injection.
  • Cost: GHK-Cu serums range from $30-100/month — significantly cheaper than injectable peptides
  • Limitations: Effects are real but moderate (15-25% improvement range). Results plateau around week 10 in some studies. Less dramatic than retinoids for wrinkle reduction, but better tolerated by sensitive skin.

GH-Releasing Peptides for Skin

Growth hormone is involved in collagen synthesis and skin thickness. GH-releasing peptides like ipamorelin and CJC-1295 may have indirect skin benefits through increased GH and IGF-1 levels, though this isn't their primary application and specific skin data is limited.

Our Take on Skin

GHK-Cu is the most practical peptide for skin goals. It's topical, relatively affordable, well-tolerated, and has genuine clinical support. Start there. If you're already using GH-releasing peptides for other goals (muscle, recovery), any skin benefits are a bonus. Don't start injectable GH peptides solely for skin improvement — the risk-benefit ratio doesn't justify it for cosmetic purposes alone.

Sleep Improvement

DSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide)

  • Evidence level: Preliminary
  • What it does: Modulates sleep architecture, named for its ability to induce delta (deep) sleep waves in animal models
  • Results: Mixed. Some human studies show improved sleep onset and quality; others show no significant difference from placebo. The most consistent finding is reduced sleep latency (time to fall asleep).
  • Administration: Typically subcutaneous injection before bed
  • Honest assessment: Despite its name, DSIP's sleep benefits are inconsistent across studies. It may be more useful for specific sleep issues (trouble falling asleep) than for general sleep quality.

Epitalon (for melatonin restoration)

  • Evidence level: Moderate for melatonin effects specifically
  • What it does: Restores melatonin production from the pineal gland, which declines with age. Animal studies show upregulation of AANAT and pCREB in pinealocytes.
  • Results: Improved melatonin secretion in aged monkeys and humans. If your sleep problem is related to age-related melatonin decline, this addresses the root cause rather than the symptom.
  • Administration: Short cycles (10-20 days), repeated 2-3 times per year

Our Take on Sleep

For pure sleep goals, neither peptide is as well-supported as optimizing sleep hygiene, managing light exposure, and addressing underlying causes (stress, sleep apnea, etc.). Epitalon's melatonin-restoring effects are the most interesting angle, particularly for adults over 50 whose pineal function has declined. DSIP is hit-or-miss. If you try either, set a trial period and measure actual sleep quality changes.

Longevity and Cellular Health

Epitalon

  • Evidence level: Moderate (notable human observational data, limited RCTs)
  • What it does: Synthetic tetrapeptide from the pineal gland. Activates telomerase, the enzyme that maintains telomere length. In cell cultures, increased telomere length by an average of 33.3%.
  • Longevity data: A prospective human cohort study of 266 people over age 60 showed epithalamin treatment produced a 1.6-1.8 fold reduction in mortality over 6 years, and a 2.5-fold reduction when combined with thymalin.
  • Cycle protocol: Unique among peptides — short cycles (10-20 days) repeated 2-3 times per year, rather than continuous dosing. Effects persist after cycles because telomerase activation and gene expression changes continue after the peptide clears.
  • Limitations: Most research comes from one institution (St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology) under Vladimir Khavinson. Independent Western replication is emerging but limited. Mechanism of action remains incompletely understood.

Our Take on Longevity

Epitalon is the most data-backed peptide specifically for longevity, with the caveat that the data pool is narrow. The human mortality reduction data is striking if confirmed by independent groups. The short cycling protocol makes it practical and relatively affordable. If you're interested in peptides for longevity, epitalon is the logical starting point — but combine it with the lifestyle factors (exercise, sleep, nutrition, stress management) that have far more evidence behind them.

The Evidence Levels: What "Research Shows" Actually Means

This section is about intellectual honesty. Not all "research" is created equal.

Strong Evidence (Multiple Human RCTs)

These peptides have been tested in large, randomized, controlled human trials:

PeptideIndicationKey Trials
SemaglutideWeight lossSTEP 1-5 (N > 3,000)
TirzepatideWeight lossSURMOUNT 1-4 (N > 4,500)
LiraglutideWeight lossSCALE (N > 3,700)
TesamorelinHIV lipodystrophyMultiple FDA registration trials

Moderate Evidence (Limited Human Data, Strong Preclinical)

PeptideStatus
IpamorelinHuman pharmacokinetic studies exist; body composition trials limited
CJC-1295Human GH response data; limited long-term outcomes
SermorelinFDA-approved for GH deficiency diagnosis; off-label use data is moderate
GHK-CuMultiple small clinical skin studies (N = 12-60)
SemaxApproved in Russia; limited Western trials
SelankApproved in Russia; limited Western trials
EpitalonHuman cohort study + in vitro data; limited RCTs

Preliminary Evidence (Mostly Animal/In Vitro)

PeptideStatus
BPC-15736+ animal studies; 3 published human studies (all small)
TB-500Animal and in vitro only for musculoskeletal use
AOD-9604Some human trial data for fat loss; not FDA-approved
DSIPMixed human sleep data; inconsistent results

What This Means for Your Decision

Strong-evidence peptides (the GLP-1 agonists) carry less uncertainty but higher cost and require prescriptions. Moderate-evidence peptides have plausible mechanisms and some human support but haven't been through large-scale validation. Preliminary-evidence peptides may work, but you're essentially an early adopter with limited safety data.

This isn't about judging anyone's choice. It's about making that choice with open eyes.

Cost and Practical Considerations

Monthly Cost Estimates (Approximate)

PeptideRouteApproximate Monthly Cost
Semaglutide (brand)Injection$800-1,300
Semaglutide (compounded)Injection$200-500
Tirzepatide (brand)Injection$800-1,200
CJC-1295 + IpamorelinInjection$150-400
SermorelinInjection$150-350
BPC-157Injection or oral$100-300
TB-500Injection$100-250
GHK-CuTopical$30-100
EpitalonInjection (cycling)$50-150 per cycle
SemaxNasal spray$30-80
SelankNasal spray$30-80

Costs vary significantly by source, region, and compounding pharmacy. Brand-name GLP-1 medications with insurance coverage can be much less.

Administration Complexity

Simplest:

  • GHK-Cu (topical — apply like any serum)
  • Semax/Selank (nasal spray)
  • MK-677 (oral capsule)

Moderate:

  • Semaglutide/tirzepatide (once-weekly injection)
  • Epitalon (10-20 day cycles, 2-3x/year)

Most complex:

  • CJC-1295 + ipamorelin (2-3 daily injections, fasted timing)
  • BPC-157 (1-2 daily injections, near injury site)
  • TB-500 (2-3 weekly injections during loading)

Storage Requirements

Most reconstituted peptides require refrigeration and have limited shelf life (weeks to months). Lyophilized (freeze-dried) peptides stored properly can last longer. See our peptide storage guide for detailed instructions.

Decision Framework: Where to Start

Step 1: Identify Your Primary Goal

Don't chase three goals at once — especially as a beginner. Pick the one that matters most right now.

Step 2: Match Evidence to Your Risk Tolerance

  • Conservative approach: Stick to FDA-approved options (GLP-1 agonists for weight loss, tesamorelin for visceral fat) prescribed by your doctor
  • Moderate approach: Consider well-established peptides with human data (GH-releasing peptides, GHK-Cu for skin)
  • Exploratory approach: Willing to try peptides with strong preclinical data but limited human studies (BPC-157, TB-500, epitalon) with physician oversight

Step 3: Consider Practical Constraints

  • Budget: GLP-1 medications are expensive; topical GHK-Cu and nasal peptides are affordable
  • Injection comfort: If needles are a dealbreaker, consider oral, nasal, or topical options
  • Time commitment: Once-weekly injections (semaglutide) are simpler than 2-3 daily (GH peptides)
  • Legal status: Are you in a tested sport? Most peptides are WADA-prohibited.

Step 4: Start Single, Then Stack

Begin with one peptide. Establish that you tolerate it, note any changes over 4-8 weeks, and only then consider adding a second. If you start two peptides simultaneously and have a side effect, you won't know which one caused it.

Quick Reference by Goal

Primary GoalFirst ChoiceSecond ChoiceEvidence Level
Fat loss (significant)Semaglutide or tirzepatideLiraglutideStrong
Fat loss (moderate)Liraglutide or AOD-9604TesamorelinStrong / Moderate
Muscle growthCJC-1295 + ipamorelinSermorelinModerate
Injury healingBPC-157BPC-157 + TB-500Preliminary
Cognitive focusSemaxSelankModerate (non-Western data)
Anxiety + cognitionSelankSemaxModerate (non-Western data)
Skin rejuvenationGHK-Cu (topical)Moderate
SleepEpitalon (melatonin)DSIPModerate / Preliminary
LongevityEpitalonModerate

For information on combining multiple peptides safely, see our peptide stacking guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which peptide has the most evidence behind it?

The GLP-1 agonists — semaglutide, tirzepatide, and liraglutide — by a wide margin. They've been tested in trials with thousands of participants, received FDA approval, and have years of real-world safety data. No other peptide category comes close in terms of evidence quality.

Can I use multiple peptides at the same time?

Yes, but strategically. Some combinations are well-established (CJC-1295 + ipamorelin, BPC-157 + TB-500). Others haven't been studied together and introduce unknown interactions. Start single, add one at a time, and work with a physician who can monitor for issues.

It depends on the peptide and your jurisdiction. FDA-approved GLP-1 medications are legal with a prescription. Many other peptides exist in a gray area — they're sold as "research chemicals" and are not approved for human use. Some (like BPC-157) have been restricted from commercial compounding by the FDA. All GH secretagogues and many recovery peptides are banned by WADA in competitive sports.

How do I know if a peptide is working?

Set measurable benchmarks before starting:

  • Fat loss: Scale weight, waist circumference, body composition scan (DEXA)
  • Muscle growth: Strength measurements, body composition, circumference measurements
  • Injury healing: Pain scores, range of motion, functional testing
  • Cognition: Standardized cognitive tests, self-reported focus/productivity metrics
  • Skin: Photos under consistent lighting at regular intervals
  • Sleep: Sleep tracker data, sleep diary

Give it a fair trial — minimum 4-8 weeks for most peptides — before concluding it isn't working.

What's the safest peptide to start with?

For topical use: GHK-Cu. Applied to skin, it has an excellent safety profile and minimal systemic absorption. For injectable use: ipamorelin has the cleanest side effect profile among GH-releasing peptides (no cortisol or prolactin spikes). For prescribed options: GLP-1 agonists have extensive safety data from large clinical trials.

Should I choose a peptide or a lifestyle change?

Both. Peptides work best as amplifiers of a solid foundation — exercise, nutrition, sleep, and stress management. No peptide will compensate for a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, or chronic sleep deprivation. Build the foundation first, then consider peptides as targeted optimization.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right peptide comes down to three questions: What's your goal? How much uncertainty are you willing to accept? And what's practical for your lifestyle and budget?

For fat loss, the GLP-1 agonists are the best-supported options in the history of obesity pharmacotherapy. For muscle growth and body composition, the CJC-1295/ipamorelin stack provides a reasonable risk-benefit ratio with GH optimization. For healing, BPC-157 is the most researched — though "most researched" in this category still means mostly animal data. For cognition, skin, sleep, and longevity, the options are real but the evidence is thinner, and honest expectations are your best friend.

Start with one goal. Pick the peptide with the best evidence for that goal. Build the lifestyle foundation that makes it work. And always, always work with a doctor who understands what you're doing and why.

References

  1. Wilding JPH, et al. Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity (STEP 1). N Engl J Med. 2021;384(11):989-1002. NEJM

  2. Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity (SURMOUNT-1). N Engl J Med. 2022;387(4):327-340. NEJM

  3. Emerging use of BPC-157 in orthopaedic sports medicine: a systematic review. PMC. 2025. PMC

  4. Regeneration or risk? A narrative review of BPC-157 for musculoskeletal healing. PMC. 2025. PMC

  5. Pickart L, et al. GHK peptide as a natural modulator of multiple cellular pathways in skin regeneration. BioMed Research International. 2015. PMC

  6. Pickart L, et al. Regenerative and protective actions of the GHK-Cu peptide in the light of the new gene data. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(7):1987. PMC

  7. Peptides: emerging candidates for the prevention and treatment of skin senescence: a review. Biomolecules. 2025. PMC

  8. Kozina LS, et al. Overview of Epitalon — highly bioactive pineal tetrapeptide with promising properties. Int J Mol Sci. 2025;26(6):2691. PMC

  9. Epitalon increases telomere length in human cell lines through telomerase upregulation or ALT activity. PMC. 2025. PMC

  10. Selank administration affects the expression of some genes involved in GABAergic neurotransmission. Front Pharmacol. 2016;7:31. PMC

  11. Godfrey RJ, et al. The exercise-induced growth hormone response in athletes. Sports Med. 2003;33(8):599-613. PubMed

  12. Lee J, Padgett L. BPC-157 and thymosin beta-4 for knee pain. Retrospective study, 2021. Referenced in PMC reviews