This guide is for informational purposes only and is NOT medical advice. The statements within have NOT been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Peptides and compounds discussed are intended strictly for RESEARCH USE ONLY and are not for human consumption or therapeutic use. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any health decisions.
For a full legal disclaimer and terms of use, please refer to the detailed section at the end of this guide.
Affiliate disclosure: Links in this guide are affiliate links — I earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
What Are Peptides?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids — typically 2 to 50 — that act as signaling molecules in your body. They bind to specific receptors to trigger biological processes: fat burning, tissue repair, hormone release, immune activation, cognitive enhancement, and more. Your body already makes hundreds of them. Synthetic peptides are lab-manufactured versions designed for improved stability, potency, or half-life.
Each entry below includes a plain-English summary of what it does, followed by links to the vendors that carry it. Everything here is for educational and informational purposes only.
Where to Get Them
These are the vendors I personally use. Sourcing matters — a peptide is only as good as the lab that made it. Before handing anyone your money, make sure they have third-party COAs, ≥98% purity, endotoxin testing, and batch-level traceability.
How to Know If a Peptide Is Legit
A peptide is only as good as the lab that made it. Before you hand anyone your money, make sure they check every one of these boxes:
- Third-party COAs (Certificates of Analysis): Every batch should come with an independent lab report verifying identity, purity, and quantity. If a vendor doesn’t provide COAs, walk away. Bonus points if they use a recognized third-party lab like Janoshik or are listed on Finnrick Analytics.
- Purity ≥98%: Reputable vendors consistently hit 98–99%+ purity. Anything below that signals cutting corners. The COA should confirm this with HPLC or mass spectrometry data.
- Endotoxin testing: The one most people overlook. Endotoxins are bacterial contaminants that can cause fever, inflammation, and immune reactions. USP-standard endotoxin testing (LAL test) should be performed on injectable products.
- Proper lyophilization and packaging: Peptides should arrive as a freeze-dried powder in sealed, sterile vials. Loose caps, wet powder, or discolored product are red flags. Cold-pack shipping for heat-sensitive compounds is a must.
- Batch/lot traceability: Each vial should have a batch number you can match to its specific COA. Generic reports slapped on everything are a red flag.
- Transparent reputation: Trustpilot, Reddit, and independent testing databases like Finnrick. A vendor with no public reviews and no community presence is a gamble.
No vendor is perfect, and the space moves fast. Do your own homework. The four vendors below are where I’ve personally landed after applying these criteria.
Orbitrex ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Finnrick Analytics verified. Every batch includes third-party COA with mass spectrometry and USP endotoxin testing. Broadest catalog (35+ SKUs). Same-day shipping, free UPS 2-Day Air over $200.
Use code STEVE for 15% off → Shop Orbitrex
KÖLD ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — Best for Nasal Sprays (No Needles)
KÖLD is the best vendor if you don’t want to deal with needles. They offer Semax, DSIP, and GLØ (GHK-Cu/BPC-157/TB-500) as ready-to-use nasal sprays, plus oral tablets for Semaglutide and Tesofensine. GMP-manufactured, third-party tested, ships US & Canada.
Use code STEVE for 15% off → Shop KÖLD
LabSourced ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Best-in-class testing — 7 vials pulled per batch, independent HPLC, LC-MS, FTIR, heavy metals, endotoxin, and sterility testing. 99%+ purity. Direct-from-lab pricing. US shipping only.
Use code STEVE for 15% off → Shop LabSourced
Peptide Categories & Compounds
Each entry includes a plain-English summary, the underlying science, and direct affiliate links to vendors that carry it. All compounds are sold for laboratory and research purposes only.
🔬 GLP-1 Receptor Agonists & Metabolic Peptides
Semaglutide
What it does: The active compound in Ozempic and Wegovy. Reduces appetite, slows how fast food leaves your stomach, and helps your body manage blood sugar. Clinical trials showed average weight loss of about 15% of body weight over roughly a year.
The science: GLP-1 receptor agonist. FDA-approved as Ozempic and Wegovy. Slows gastric emptying, suppresses appetite via hypothalamic signaling, and enhances insulin secretion. STEP 1 trial showed 14.9% body weight reduction at 68 weeks (NEJM 2021). SELECT trial confirmed cardiovascular risk reduction (NEJM 2023).
Get it from: Orbitrex | KÖLD | LabSourced
Tirzepatide
What it does: The active compound in Mounjaro and Zepbound. Targets two appetite hormones at once instead of one, which is why it produces more weight loss than semaglutide. Clinical trials showed average weight loss of about 22% over 72 weeks.
The science: Dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist. FDA-approved as Mounjaro and Zepbound. SURMOUNT-1 trial showed 22.5% weight reduction at 72 weeks (NEJM 2022) — the largest weight loss from any pharmaceutical agent in clinical trials to date.
Get it from: Orbitrex | KÖLD | LabSourced
Retatrutide
What it does: Targets three appetite and metabolism hormones at once, including one that increases fat burning directly. Clinical trials showed average weight loss of about 24% in under a year, the largest result of any weight loss drug tested to date. Currently in Phase 3 trials and not yet FDA-approved.
The science: Triple agonist targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors. Phase 2 data showed up to 24.2% weight reduction at 48 weeks (NEJM 2023). The glucagon activation adds thermogenic fat burning and liver fat reduction. Phase 3 trials ongoing. Not yet FDA-approved.
Get it from: Orbitrex | KÖLD | LabSourced
Cagrilintide
What it does: Targets a different appetite pathway than semaglutide and tirzepatide. Often combined with semaglutide (called CagriSema) to produce greater weight loss than either compound alone.
The science: Long-acting amylin receptor agonist. Works through a different satiety pathway than GLP-1 (brainstem vs. hypothalamic). Studied in combination with semaglutide (CagriSema) — Phase 2 showed greater weight loss than either alone. Phase 3 underway.
Survodutide (BI-456906)
What it does: Similar to retatrutide but particularly effective at reducing liver fat. Being studied for both weight loss and fatty liver disease (MASH/NAFLD).
The science: Dual GLP-1/glucagon agonist by Boehringer Ingelheim. Phase 2 data showed significant weight loss and notable liver fat reduction in MASH/NAFLD patients. Phase 3 ongoing.
AOD-9604
What it does: A fragment of growth hormone that promotes fat burning without raising blood sugar or causing tissue growth like full HGH does.
The science: Modified HGH fragment (amino acids 176–191) that retains fat-burning properties without affecting blood glucose or IGF-1. Phase 2b human trial showed modest but significant fat reduction. Granted FDA GRAS status in 2014.
Get it from: Orbitrex
5-Amino-1MQ
What it does: An oral capsule that blocks an enzyme in fat cells that limits fat burning. In animal studies, treated mice lost fat without changes in appetite or food intake.
The science: NNMT inhibitor. Blocks an enzyme overexpressed in fat tissue, raising intracellular NAD+ and activating sirtuin-driven fat metabolism. Preclinical mouse data showed fat/weight reduction without appetite changes. Human trial data limited. Oral capsule.
Get it from: Orbitrex
Tesofensine
What it does: An oral pill that works on brain chemistry (dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin) to reduce appetite and boost metabolism. Phase 2 trials showed approximately 13% weight loss over 24 weeks.
The science: Triple monoamine reuptake inhibitor (NE, DA, 5-HT). Not a peptide — a small molecule. Phase 2 trial published in the Lancet showed dose-dependent weight loss of up to ~13% over 24 weeks. Not FDA-approved. Oral tablet.
Get it from: KÖLD
MOTS-c
What it does: Mimics the effects of exercise at the cellular level. Improves insulin sensitivity and fat oxidation in animal studies. Your body produces less of it as you age.
The science: Mitochondria-derived peptide that activates AMPK. Exercise-mimetic effects demonstrated in mice — improved insulin sensitivity, fat oxidation, and exercise capacity (Cell Metabolism, 2015). Endogenous levels decline with age. Limited human interventional data.
SLU-PP-332
What it does: Activates the same nuclear receptors that control exercise adaptation — improving endurance, fat oxidation, and metabolic rate without physical training. Often called the 'exercise pill.' Banned by WADA.
The science: Synthetic agonist of ERRα, ERRβ, and ERRγ (estrogen-related receptors). Activates mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative metabolism genes, mimicking the transcriptional response to endurance exercise. Preclinical data shows improved running capacity and fat oxidation in sedentary mice. Mechanistically distinct from AICAR (AMPK) and BAM-15 (mitochondrial uncoupling). Banned by WADA.
L-Carnitine
What it does: Transports fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production. Commonly used alongside fat-loss protocols and GLP-1 compounds to support cellular fat burning. Available as injectable for direct bioavailability.
The science: Quaternary ammonium compound synthesized from lysine and methionine. Acts as a mitochondrial membrane transporter, shuttling long-chain fatty acids across the inner mitochondrial membrane for beta-oxidation. Injectable form bypasses the limited oral bioavailability. Commonly stacked with fat-loss peptides and GLP-1 compounds.
Get it from: LabSourced
💉 Growth Hormone Secretagogues
Tesamorelin
What it does: Stimulates your pituitary to release your own growth hormone. Specifically reduces visceral (belly) fat. The only GH-stimulating peptide with FDA approval.
The science: GHRH analog. FDA-approved as Egrifta for visceral fat reduction in HIV lipodystrophy. The only GH secretagogue with FDA approval. Stimulates natural pulsatile GH release. Clinical trials showed significant visceral fat reduction by CT scan and improved triglycerides.
CJC-1295 (with and without DAC)
What it does: Increases your body's own growth hormone output. The no-DAC version is commonly combined with ipamorelin to mimic the body's natural pulsed GH release for sleep, recovery, and body composition.
The science: Synthetic GHRH analog. DAC version has ~6–8 day half-life; no-DAC version ~30 minutes. The no-DAC version paired with ipamorelin is the most common GH peptide stack — produces synergistic pulsatile GH release.
Get it from: Orbitrex
Ipamorelin
What it does: Triggers growth hormone release without raising cortisol, hunger, or other hormones. Considered the cleanest GH peptide and is typically the one most people start with.
The science: Selective GH secretagogue (GHS-R1a). Unlike GHRP-6 and GHRP-2, published data shows it does not significantly raise cortisol, ACTH, or prolactin at therapeutic doses. Clean side-effect profile makes it the preferred GHRP for most applications.
Sermorelin
What it does: An older, milder growth hormone-stimulating peptide. Typically injected before bed to enhance the body's natural overnight GH pulse.
The science: GHRH analog (first 29 amino acids of endogenous GHRH). Previously FDA-approved as Geref for pediatric GH deficiency (since discontinued). Short half-life (~10–20 min). Typically dosed before bed to amplify nocturnal GH pulse.
Get it from: Orbitrex
PEG-MGF (Pegylated Mechano Growth Factor)
What it does: A longer-acting version of Mechano Growth Factor — a muscle-specific growth signal released after physical stress or damage. The pegylation extends the half-life from minutes to days, making it practical for recovery and muscle growth protocols.
The science: PEG-MGF is a pegylated analog of Mechano Growth Factor (MGF), itself a splice variant of IGF-1 produced locally in muscle tissue in response to mechanical stress or damage. The E-domain of MGF activates satellite cells (muscle stem cells) to proliferate and differentiate, driving repair and hypertrophy. Native MGF has a half-life of only a few minutes; pegylation extends this to ~72 hours. Acts synergistically with IGF-1 LR3.
Get it from: LabSourced
STRØM Blend (CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin)
What it does: KÖLD's pre-combined GH peptide stack — the two most commonly paired secretagogues in one vial. CJC-1295 provides the GHRH signal; Ipamorelin provides the clean GHRP signal. Together they produce synergistic pulsatile GH release.
The science: Combination of CJC-1295 (no DAC) and Ipamorelin in a single formulation. CJC-1295 (GHRH analog) amplifies the GH pulse; Ipamorelin (selective GHS-R1a agonist) triggers release without raising cortisol or prolactin. The synergistic pulsatile pattern more closely mimics physiological GH secretion than either compound alone.
Get it from: KÖLD
🩹 Tissue Repair & Recovery
BPC-157
What it does: A general-purpose healing peptide. Studied for healing tendons, ligaments, gut lining, joints, and nerve tissue. Backed by over 100 animal studies, though no completed human clinical trials yet.
The science: Pentadecapeptide from human gastric juice. Modulates nitric oxide, upregulates VEGF/FGF, and promotes angiogenesis at injury sites. 100+ published animal studies showing accelerated healing of tendons, ligaments, muscles, gut, bone, and nerve tissue. No completed human clinical trials as of 2026 — the most significant gap in its evidence base.
Get it from: Orbitrex | KÖLD | LabSourced
TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4)
What it does: Helps cells migrate to injury sites for repair. Frequently combined with BPC-157 because the two compounds work through different mechanisms.
The science: Synthetic active region of Tβ4. Works through actin sequestration to facilitate cell migration and tissue repair. Human trials for wound healing and corneal repair showed positive results. Animal data shows cardiac recovery and musculoskeletal healing. Commonly stacked with BPC-157.
GHK-Cu
What it does: A copper-bound peptide that your body produces less of as you age. Stimulates collagen production and is used as the active ingredient in many high-end skin care products.
The science: Naturally occurring copper tripeptide that declines with age. Activates collagen synthesis and ECM remodeling genes while suppressing inflammatory gene expression. Gene array profiling by Pickart et al. showed significant expression changes across hundreds of genes. Available injectable, topical, and nasal.
Get it from: Orbitrex | KÖLD | LabSourced
KPV
What it does: An anti-inflammatory peptide that reduces inflammation in the gut and skin. Does not cause skin darkening like other compounds in its family.
The science: Tripeptide from alpha-MSH. Anti-inflammatory via NF-κB inhibition without melanocortin receptor activation (no skin darkening). Published research showed reduced intestinal inflammation in colitis models. Also has antimicrobial properties.
LL-37
What it does: A naturally occurring antimicrobial peptide. Kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and breaks down biofilms (the protective coating that chronic infections use to hide).
The science: Cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide. Broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Disrupts biofilms. Part of innate immunity. Used in short cycles for infection-related research.
Get it from: Orbitrex
GLOW Blend (GHK-Cu + BPC-157 + TB-500)
What it does: Three healing peptides combined in one vial. KÖLD also offers this combination as a nasal spray (GLØ) for those who do not want to inject.
The science: Combination formulation pairing three complementary repair mechanisms. KÖLD also offers this as a nasal spray (GLØ) for needle-free application.
Wolverine Blend (BPC-157 + TB-500)
What it does: A pre-combined stack of the two most widely researched repair peptides. BPC-157 drives local tissue healing; TB-500 facilitates cell migration to injury sites. Combining them covers both mechanisms simultaneously.
The science: Combination of BPC-157 (pentadecapeptide from gastric juice) and TB-500 (synthetic Thymosin Beta-4 active region). BPC-157 upregulates nitric oxide and promotes angiogenesis; TB-500 works through actin sequestration to mobilize cells to injury sites. The combination covers complementary repair pathways.
Get it from: Orbitrex | LabSourced
KLOW Blend (GHK-Cu + BPC-157 + TB-500 + KPV)
What it does: An extended version of the GLOW/GLØ blend with KPV added for anti-inflammatory action. Four complementary repair compounds in one — collagen stimulation, tissue healing, cell migration, and gut/skin inflammation reduction.
The science: Combination formulation adding KPV (alpha-MSH tripeptide) to the standard GHK-Cu/BPC-157/TB-500 stack. KPV adds NF-κB inhibition and anti-inflammatory action without melanocortin receptor activation, complementing the angiogenic and cell-migration mechanisms of the other three compounds.
Get it from: Orbitrex | LabSourced
Snap-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3)
What it does: A cosmetic anti-wrinkle peptide that works like a milder version of Botox — relaxing facial muscle contractions to reduce the appearance of expression lines.
The science: Snap-8 is an acetyl octapeptide that acts on the SNARE complex, inhibiting catecholamine release at neuromuscular junctions. This reduces the intensity of facial muscle contractions that cause expression wrinkles. Functions similarly to Botulinum toxin type A but via a different (competitive) mechanism and at much lower potency. Studied primarily for topical cosmetic use.
Get it from: LabSourced
Cartalax
What it does: A cartilage and connective tissue bioregulator from Russian peptide research (Khavinson group). Used in short cycles to support joint, cartilage, and connective tissue function.
The science: Tripeptide bioregulator (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) targeting cartilage and connective tissue gene expression. Part of the Khavinson 40+ year Russian bioregulator research program. Shows upregulation of collagen synthesis genes and chondrocyte activity in preclinical models. Used in 10–20 day cycles with extended breaks.
Get it from: Orbitrex
Bronchogen
What it does: A lung tissue bioregulator from Russian peptide research. Used to support respiratory tissue function and studied for its role in lung epithelial cell gene expression.
The science: Tetrapeptide bioregulator (Ala-Glu-Asp-Leu) from the Khavinson research group targeting bronchial epithelial tissue. Preclinical data shows modulation of gene expression in lung tissue. Part of the same Russian bioregulator program as Epithalon, Pinealon, and Vilon. Used in short cycles.
Get it from: Orbitrex
🛡️ Immune Modulation
Thymosin Alpha-1
What it does: Activates and supports the function of T-cells, which are the main fighters in your immune system. Approved as a pharmaceutical in 30+ countries (Zadaxin) for hepatitis B/C and as an immune adjunct in cancer therapy.
The science: 28-amino-acid peptide from thymic tissue. Enhances T-cell maturation, dendritic cell activation, and Th1/Th2 balance. Approved in 30+ countries as Zadaxin for hepatitis B/C and immune adjunct therapy. One of the most well-characterized immune peptides with real pharmaceutical approval.
VIP (Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide)
What it does: Reduces whole-body inflammation, protects nerve tissue, and is the primary peptide protocol used for CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) from mold or biotoxin exposure.
The science: 28-amino-acid neuropeptide. Suppresses TNF-α and IL-6, promotes regulatory T-cells. Research by Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker links VIP deficiency to CIRS and showed clinical improvement with VIP nasal spray. Also studied for neuroprotection and bronchodilation.
Get it from: Orbitrex
Thymalin
What it does: A thymic peptide bioregulator that supports immune function and T-cell production — different from Thymosin Alpha-1. From Russian longevity research; studied for immune restoration in aging.
The science: Polypeptide bioregulator isolated from thymic tissue (distinct from TA-1/Zadaxin). Part of the Khavinson bioregulator program. Published data shows stimulation of T-lymphocyte proliferation and restoration of immune parameters in aged subjects. Used in 10-day cycles.
Get it from: LabSourced
🧠 Cognitive & Neuroprotective
Semax
What it does: A Russian-developed nasal spray used for focus, memory, and recovery after stroke. Increases BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which supports brain cell growth and survival.
The science: ACTH (4–10) analog. Upregulates BDNF, modulates dopamine/serotonin without affecting cortisol. Approved as a pharmaceutical in Russia for stroke recovery and cognitive disorders. Available injectable and nasal (KÖLD carries the nasal spray).
Selank
What it does: Reduces anxiety without causing sedation or dependency. Works on the same calming receptor system as benzodiazepines but without the impairment or addiction risk. Also has mild immune-supporting effects.
The science: Tuftsin-based heptapeptide. Modulates GABA and IL-6. Approved in Russia for generalized anxiety. Anxiolytic effects comparable to benzodiazepines without sedation or dependency. Dual function: anxiolytic + immune modulator.
DSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide)
What it does: Increases deep (delta wave) sleep, the stage of sleep when the body does its most repair. Effects tend to build up over a week or two of use rather than producing immediate sedation.
The science: Nonapeptide that modulates sleep architecture via GABA-ergic pathways. Published EEG data shows increased delta wave activity. Human results are mixed. KÖLD offers a DSIP nasal spray for those who don't want to inject before bed.
Pinealon
What it does: A brain-targeted peptide from Russian longevity research. Used in 10–20 day cycles with extended breaks between cycles.
The science: Tripeptide bioregulator from the Khavinson group. Targets brain tissue gene expression. Neuroprotective effects in animal neurodegeneration models. Part of a 40+ year Russian bioregulator research program.
Get it from: Orbitrex
Adamax
What it does: A modified version of Semax with improved blood-brain barrier penetration and longer duration. Produces similar focus and BDNF-boosting effects but more potently.
The science: Modified analog of Semax (Ac-MEHFPGP-AG-NH2) with an adamantane group added at the C-terminus, derived from the P21 sequence. The adamantane modification increases lipophilicity, blood-brain barrier penetration, and enzymatic stability significantly compared to Semax. Used in preclinical research on BDNF expression, TrkB receptor sensitivity, and synaptic plasticity. Available as injection or nasal spray.
Get it from: LabSourced
Oxytocin
What it does: The 'bonding hormone' — naturally released during social connection, touch, and intimacy. Research applications include social anxiety, autism spectrum support, trust enhancement, and sexual function. Available as injectable or nasal spray.
The science: Nonapeptide hormone produced in the hypothalamus, released from the posterior pituitary. Modulates social behavior via oxytocin receptors in the amygdala. Reduces amygdala reactivity to social threat stimuli. Studied for social anxiety disorder, autism spectrum, PTSD, and relationship bonding. KÖLD carries both injectable and nasal spray formats.
N-Acetyl Semax Amidate
What it does: An enhanced, more stable version of Semax with modifications at both ends of the molecule. Produces stronger and longer-lasting BDNF-boosting and cognitive effects compared to standard Semax.
The science: N-acetylated and C-amidated analog of Semax (ACTH 4–10 analog). The N-acetyl group increases lipophilicity and resistance to enzymatic degradation; the amidate modification prevents carboxypeptidase cleavage. Combined, these significantly extend half-life and increase potency vs. standard Semax.
Get it from: Orbitrex
N-Acetyl Selank Amidate
What it does: An enhanced version of Selank with improved stability and potency. Produces the same anxiolytic and immune-modulating effects as Selank but more durably.
The science: N-acetylated and C-amidated form of Selank (tuftsin-based heptapeptide). The dual modification increases enzymatic stability and blood-brain barrier penetration relative to standard Selank. Maintains the anxiolytic mechanism (GABA modulation, IL-6 suppression) with extended duration of action.
Get it from: Orbitrex
PE-22-28
What it does: A synthetic antidepressant peptide derived from spadin. Promotes neuroplasticity and new synapse formation. Rapid onset in animal models — comparable effects to ketamine in depression research.
The science: Synthetic analog of spadin, derived from the pro-region of the TREK-1 potassium channel propeptide. Blocks TREK-1 channels, producing antidepressant effects via serotonergic and synaptic plasticity mechanisms. Promotes hippocampal neurogenesis and synaptogenesis. Onset in mice at 24–72 hours — faster than traditional SSRIs. No human clinical trials.
Get it from: LabSourced
⏳ Anti-Aging & Longevity
Epithalon
What it does: Activates telomerase to maintain the protective end caps on your DNA (telomeres), which normally shorten with age. A 12-year study in elderly patients showed lower mortality compared to the control group. Used in short cycles with extended breaks.
The science: Tetrapeptide from pineal epithalamin. Activates telomerase to maintain telomere length. Khavinson et al. demonstrated telomerase activation in human somatic cells. A 12-year longitudinal study showed reduced mortality in elderly patients vs. controls (Bull. Exp. Biol. Med., 2003). Animal studies show lifespan extension.
FOXO4-DRI
What it does: Selectively eliminates senescent cells (“zombie cells”) that no longer function properly and contribute to age-related inflammation. Animal studies showed reversal of multiple aging markers. No human trial data yet.
The science: Senolytic peptide. Disrupts FOXO4-p53 binding in senescent “zombie cells,” restoring apoptosis selectively. Erasmus University research (Cell, 2017) showed restored fitness, kidney function, and fur density in treated mice. No human trial data.
Get it from: Orbitrex
MTP-31 / SS-31 (Elamipretide)
What it does: Stabilizes the membranes of your mitochondria (the cellular structures that produce energy) so they function more efficiently. Currently in Phase 2 and Phase 3 human trials for genetic mitochondrial diseases.
The science: Mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide that stabilizes cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Multiple Phase 2/3 human trials for Barth syndrome, mitochondrial myopathy, and heart failure.
Get it from: Orbitrex
NAD+
What it does: A coenzyme that your cells require for energy production and DNA repair. Levels decline significantly with age. The injectable form bypasses the poor absorption issues of oral NMN and NR supplements.
The science: Not a peptide — a coenzyme essential for mitochondrial energy, DNA repair (PARP), and epigenetic regulation (sirtuins). Levels decline significantly with age. Injectable form bypasses the poor oral bioavailability of precursors (NMN, NR).
Get it from: Orbitrex | LabSourced
Glutathione
What it does: Your body's primary antioxidant. Supports liver detoxification, neutralizes free radicals, and recycles vitamins C and E. Oral glutathione has very poor absorption, so the injectable form is preferred.
The science: Tripeptide — the body's master antioxidant. Neutralizes ROS, regenerates vitamins C/E, supports liver Phase II detox. Injectable form provides direct bioavailability (oral is poorly absorbed).
Get it from: Orbitrex
Vilon
What it does: A short-cycle immune-supporting peptide from Russian longevity research. Promotes T-cell maturation and immune function in older subjects.
The science: Dipeptide bioregulator (Khavinson) targeting thymic tissue. Promotes T-cell maturation and immune recovery. Published data shows immune restoration in aged models and improved T-cell function in elderly subjects.
Get it from: Orbitrex
Humanin
What it does: A mitochondria-derived peptide that protects neurons and heart cells from stress and death. Levels decline with age. Studied for Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular protection, and metabolic function.
The science: Humanin (HN) is a 21-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial 16S ribosomal RNA gene. Acts on multiple receptors (FPRL1, gp130/IL-6Rβ, IGFBP-3) to prevent apoptosis in neurons and cardiomyocytes under stress. Plasma levels decline significantly with aging and in Alzheimer's patients. Preclinical data shows improved cognitive function, insulin sensitivity, and cardiac protection.
Get it from: LabSourced
ARA-290
What it does: A fragment of erythropoietin (EPO) that provides its tissue-protective and anti-inflammatory benefits without the blood-thickening effects of full EPO. Studied for nerve damage, inflammation, and metabolic syndrome.
The science: ARA-290 is an 11-amino-acid cyclic peptide derived from the helix B region of erythropoietin. Binds the innate repair receptor (IRR) rather than the classical EPOR homodimer, activating tissue-protective signaling without erythropoietic effects (no red blood cell stimulation). Phase 2 human trials showed reduction in neuropathic pain. Lacks cardiovascular risks of full EPO.
Get it from: Orbitrex
PNC-27
What it does: A research peptide derived from p53 (the tumor suppressor protein) that selectively induces cell death in cancer cells while leaving normal cells unaffected. Studied in research settings for oncology applications only.
The science: PNC-27 is a 32-amino-acid peptide containing a penetratin cell-penetrating sequence fused to a p53 MDM-2-binding domain. In cancer cells with overexpressed HDM-2, PNC-27 binds HDM-2 at the cell membrane and forms pores, leading to selective necrosis. Normal cells are unaffected. In vitro and preclinical animal data only.
Get it from: LabSourced
KLØ Blend (KÖLD Proprietary Renewal Blend)
What it does: KÖLD's proprietary tissue renewal blend. Combines complementary repair peptides in optimized ratios for the Renewal category.
The science: KÖLD's proprietary formulation combining complementary repair peptides in their optimized ratios. Designed for tissue regeneration, recovery, and anti-inflammatory applications. See the KÖLD product page for specific compound composition.
Get it from: KÖLD
❤️ Melanocortin, Sexual Health & Reproductive
PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
What it does: Increases sexual desire and arousal by acting on the central nervous system rather than on blood vessels. Different mechanism than Viagra or Cialis. FDA-approved for use in women, used off-label by men.
The science: Melanocortin agonist (MC3R/MC4R). FDA-approved as Vyleesi for HSDD in premenopausal women. Acts on CNS sexual arousal pathways — unlike Viagra/Cialis which are vascular. Also studied in male ED with positive results.
Melanotan-I (Afamelanotide)
What it does: Produces a gradual, even tan without sun exposure. FDA-approved under the brand Scenesse for a rare sun sensitivity disorder.
The science: Selective MC1R agonist stimulating eumelanin production. FDA-approved as Scenesse for erythropoietic protoporphyria. Gradual tanning without significant appetite or sexual function effects.
Get it from: Orbitrex
Melanotan-II
What it does: A more potent tanning peptide that also affects libido and appetite. Side effects include nausea, darkening of moles, and facial flushing. Not FDA-approved.
The science: Non-selective melanocortin agonist (MC1R/3R/4R/5R). Developed at University of Arizona. Confirmed skin pigmentation, erectile function, and appetite effects. Side effects include nausea and mole darkening. Not FDA-approved.
Get it from: Orbitrex
Kisspeptin
What it does: Triggers the natural release of reproductive hormones (LH and FSH) from the brain, which in turn stimulates testosterone or estrogen production. Being studied as a fertility treatment.
The science: Neuropeptide stimulating GnRH release → LH/FSH secretion. Clinical research confirms gonadotropin stimulation in both sexes (JCEM). Being studied for fertility treatment and reproductive diagnostics.
Get it from: Orbitrex
LIPO-C
What it does: A compounded nutrient injection containing B12, choline, methionine, inositol, and L-carnitine. Supports fat metabolism and liver function. Not a peptide — commonly used alongside fat-loss protocols.
The science: Compounded lipotropic blend (methionine, inositol, choline, B12, L-carnitine). Individual components well-characterized for fat metabolism and liver support. Not a peptide — a nutrient injection commonly paired with fat-loss protocols.
Get it from: Orbitrex
⚠️ Full Legal Disclaimer & Terms of Use
Not Medical Advice: The content provided in this guide by Foody Fellowship is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health objectives. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this guide.
Not Evaluated by the FDA: The statements and information presented in this guide regarding peptides, compounds, or any related topics have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products or substances mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Research Use Only: Any peptides or compounds discussed or referenced herein are strictly intended for RESEARCH USE ONLY and laboratory purposes. They are not for human consumption, therapeutic use, or any form of medical application. Foody Fellowship does not endorse, promote, or encourage the illegal or improper use of any substances.
Accuracy and Currency: The information on this site is provided “as is” without any representations or warranties, express or implied. Foody Fellowship makes no representations or warranties in relation to the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Laws and scientific understanding are constantly evolving, and no warranty is made as to the completeness or timeliness of any information.
Limitation of Liability: To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, in no event shall Foody Fellowship or its affiliates, employees, agents, or licensors be liable for any direct, indirect, punitive, incidental, special, consequential, or exemplary damages, including without limitation damages for loss of profits, goodwill, use, data, or other intangible losses, arising out of or relating to the use of, or inability to use, this guide or any information contained herein.
Governing Law: These terms and your use of this guide shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Utah, without regard to its conflict of law principles. Any legal action or proceeding relating to this guide shall be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts located in Utah.
