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Recently we have seen a lot of press about peptides. So, what is a peptide? A peptide is a short chain of amino acids that function as a signaling molecule. Signaling means that they tell cells to release different substances. It could be something to curb your appetite, it could be something to reduce inflammation, it could even be a growth hormone. Some examples of positive peptides would be insulin and GLP-1s that are used for the treatment of diabetes and weight loss.
What is concerning though is that some of these peptides have not been sufficiently evaluated or studied to make sure they actually do what they are claimed to do. The problem with this is that some health spas, athletic enhancement operations and beauty spas actually sell these substances.
The research here may be thin to not much at all. One must be vigilant to make sure she/he receives peptides that are not going to harm.
Some of the research on peptides is not adequately controlled, and some of these peptides have labeling which states “they are not for human consumption.”
Be aware of the various categories of peptides. First there are the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved peptides. These have been fully vetted because they have undergone meticulous clinical trials. These trials have shown that these peptides are effective and they have been approved by the regulating body (FDA) to address at least one problem. These peptides require prescriptions and GLP-1s are an example of such medications.
A second category is compounded peptides, which are not approved by the FDA. Compounded peptides may be prepared by a licensed pharmaceutical agency, however clinical trials that prove their efficacy and purity are scarce. An example of a compounded peptide would be growth hormone peptides.
A third category is research peptides or chemicals. Research peptides have no oversight. Actually, they are sold and labeled NOT for human consumption. They carry no guarantee of purity and there is no information on how to dose them.
It is also important to be aware that if a peptide is marketed for a particular problem, that does not mean that it has been proven to do what it says, nor does it mean it has been proven to be safe. Remember, if a peptide is NOT FDA approved, there is no guarantee of its purity, and its dosage has not been meticulously figured out. Vials with non-FDA approved peptides may contain contaminants or they may have the wrong substance in them entirely. I find this fact quite troubling and dangerous.
Recently an Advisory Board of the FDA “recommended” the use of some peptides. Recommending a medication is completely different from approving it with the FDA. Therefore, just because an advisory board makes a recommendation does not mean the chemical or medication is actually approved by the FDA. For example, there are cases where athletes must be extremely careful because using some of these “recommended” peptides can cause them to lose their eligibility to participate in their chosen sport.
So, one must be extremely careful in the utilization of these peptides. Practice due diligence to make sure there is sufficient data behind the peptide being considered and that it is safe. Remember, there are unscrupulous people who will sell you peptides they know are not pure and have the potential to cause harm. Be selective and knowledgeable about what you put in your body. If it is not proven to be helpful without a doubt, is it worth the chance it may harm your now and your future?
Dr. Veita Bland is a board-certified Greensboro physician and hypertension specialist. Dr. Bland’s radio show, “It’s a Matter of Your Health,” can be heard live on Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. on N.C. A&T State University’s WNAA, 90.1 FM. Listeners may call in and ask questions. The show is replayed on Sirius 142 at 5 p.m. on Wed. Email Dr. Bland at ideas@blandclinicpa.com.
