BPC-157
Body Protection Compound-157
A synthetic peptide derived from a protective protein found in gastric juice. BPC-157 has demonstrated remarkable healing properties across multiple tissue types in research studies.
Primary Benefits
- Accelerates healing of muscles, tendons, and ligaments
- Promotes gastrointestinal tract repair
- Supports joint health and recovery
- Demonstrates protective effects on organs
- May improve blood flow and angiogenesis
- Shows neuroprotective properties
Mechanisms of Action
BPC-157 works by promoting angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation), modulating growth factor expression, and stabilizing cellular structures. It interacts with the nitric oxide system and influences various growth factor pathways including VEGF.
Typical Dosing: 250-500 mcg once or twice daily, via subcutaneous or intramuscular injection. Some protocols use higher doses for acute injuries.
TB-500
Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment
A synthetic version of a naturally occurring peptide present in nearly all human cells. TB-500 plays a crucial role in tissue repair, wound healing, and cellular migration.
Primary Benefits
- Promotes healing of acute and chronic injuries
- Reduces inflammation systemically
- Improves flexibility and reduces scar tissue formation
- Supports cardiovascular health
- Enhances hair growth in some cases
- May improve recovery time from workouts
Mechanisms of Action
TB-500 regulates actin, a cell-building protein essential for cell structure, movement, and proliferation. It promotes cell migration to injury sites, reduces inflammation, and supports the formation of new blood vessels. Unlike BPC-157, TB-500 has more systemic effects throughout the body.
Typical Dosing: 2-5 mg twice weekly for 4-6 weeks (loading phase), then maintenance at 2-5 mg once weekly or as needed. Administered via subcutaneous injection.
GHK-Cu
Glycyl-L-Histidyl-L-Lysine Copper Complex
A naturally occurring copper-binding peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine. GHK-Cu levels decline with age, and supplementation has shown benefits for skin, tissue repair, and overall regeneration.
Primary Benefits
- Potent anti-aging effects on skin
- Stimulates collagen and elastin production
- Accelerates wound healing
- Possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Promotes hair growth and thickness
- Supports tissue remodeling and regeneration
- May improve skin firmness and reduce wrinkles
Mechanisms of Action
GHK-Cu influences over 4,000 genes, primarily those involved in tissue repair, antioxidant responses, and anti-inflammation. The copper component is essential for various enzymatic reactions. It activates tissue remodeling, increases angiogenesis, and stimulates nerve outgrowth.
Typical Dosing: 1-3 mg daily via subcutaneous injection or topical application for skin benefits. Some protocols use 3-5 mg for systemic effects. Often cycled with breaks.
Retatrutide
Triple Agonist: GIP/GLP-1/Glucagon Receptor
A novel triple agonist peptide that targets three hormone receptors involved in metabolism and appetite regulation. Currently in clinical trials, retatrutide shows exceptional promise for weight management and metabolic health.
Primary Benefits
- Significant weight loss (average 24% body weight in trials)
- Reduces appetite and increases satiety
- Improves insulin sensitivity
- Lowers blood glucose levels
- May improve lipid profiles
- Demonstrates superior efficacy compared to dual agonists
- Potential benefits for fatty liver disease
Mechanisms of Action
By activating GIP, GLP-1, and glucagon receptors simultaneously, retatrutide creates a synergistic metabolic effect. GLP-1 reduces appetite and slows gastric emptying, GIP enhances insulin secretion and may improve fat metabolism, while glucagon activation increases energy expenditure and promotes fat oxidation.
Typical Dosing: Starting at 2 mg weekly, titrating up to 8-12 mg weekly based on tolerance and response. Administered via subcutaneous injection. Gradual dose escalation is essential to minimize side effects.
Ipamorelin
Growth Hormone Secretagogue
A selective growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone without significantly affecting cortisol or prolactin levels. Known for its clean action profile and minimal side effects.
Primary Benefits
- Increases natural growth hormone production
- Supports muscle growth and recovery
- Promotes fat loss, especially abdominal fat
- Improves sleep quality and depth
- Enhances bone density
- Supports skin health and collagen production
- May improve immune function
- Does not increase appetite (unlike some GH secretagogues)
Mechanisms of Action
Ipamorelin binds to the ghrelin/growth hormone secretagogue receptor, triggering pulsatile growth hormone release similar to natural patterns. Its selectivity means it doesn't substantially elevate cortisol or prolactin, avoiding many side effects associated with less selective compounds.
Typical Dosing: 200-300 mcg 1-3 times daily, typically taken before bed and/or post-workout. Administered via subcutaneous injection. Often cycled 5 days on, 2 days off, or used continuously for 3-6 months followed by a break.