Researchers at Stanford Medicine caution that the online wellness market for peptides is outpacing scientific evidence. Peptides are short chains of acids that regulate metabolic functions such as appetite, blood sugar, sleep and immunity.

Some products marketed for weight loss, muscle growth, recovery or anti-aging have been tested only in animals and may contain contaminants or lack correct dosage information when consumers buy them online to self-administer, the Stanford Medicine researchers say. In contrast, FDA-approved peptide drugs such as insulin and GLP-1 medications have undergone rigorous clinical testing. Researchers expect peptide-based treatments to expand, potentially addressing chronic conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. The key takeaway: Peptides hold significant medical promise, but their safety and effectiveness depend on rigorous human research and proper regulation.

Read the Stanford Medicine article: Peptides Are Buzzing: But What Does the Science Say?