Dec 21, 2025
Need to know what each peptide actually does?
This comprehensive peptide directory covers 30+ research peptides with clear descriptions of their primary functions, typical uses, dosing ranges, and who benefits most from each one.
Quick reference format - find the peptide you're researching, understand what it does in 30 seconds, then dive deeper into specific guides if it matches your goals.
How to use this peptide list
Format for each peptide:
Primary function: What it does in one sentence
Main uses: Top 3-5 applications
Typical dose: Standard dosing range
Best for: Who benefits most
Learn more: Link to detailed guide
Organization: Alphabetical for easy reference
Not included: Extremely rare or experimental peptides with minimal human use data
Read our what are peptides guide for fundamentals.
The complete peptide directory
AOD-9604 (Anti-Obesity Drug)
Primary function: Fat burning peptide that mimics growth hormone's fat-loss effects without affecting blood sugar
Main uses:
Targeted fat loss (especially stubborn areas)
Metabolic enhancement
Body recomposition without muscle loss
Alternative to full GH protocols
Typical dose: 300-600mcg injected subcutaneously daily, preferably fasted
Best for: People wanting fat loss benefits of GH without full GH protocol, those with insulin sensitivity concerns
Duration: 12-16 weeks for significant results
Learn more: Best peptides for weight loss
BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound)
Primary function: Accelerates healing of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and gut tissue through angiogenesis and cellular repair
Main uses:
Injury recovery (sports injuries, surgical recovery)
Tendon and ligament healing
Gut health (leaky gut, IBS, gastritis)
Joint pain relief
Injury prevention during heavy training
Typical dose: 250-500mcg injected subcutaneously 1-2x daily, or oral for gut issues
Best for: Athletes with injuries, anyone with chronic gut issues, people wanting faster recovery
Duration: 8-12 weeks for most injuries, can use longer for chronic conditions
Learn more: BPC-157 complete guide
Bremelanotide (PT-141)
Primary function: Activates desire pathways in the brain to restore sexual arousal and libido
Main uses:
Low libido (especially in women post-menopause)
Sexual dysfunction not responsive to other treatments
Desire issues (not mechanical issues)
Typical dose: 0.5-2mg injected subcutaneously 2-3 hours before desired effect
Best for: Women with menopause-related libido loss, people with desire issues where other approaches failed
Duration: Use as needed (not daily protocol), 1-3x weekly typical
Learn more: Peptides for women
CJC-1295 (with or without DAC)
Primary function: Extends growth hormone release for sustained elevated GH levels
Main uses:
Muscle building and body recomposition
Anti-aging (paired with Ipamorelin)
Enhanced recovery
Improved sleep quality
Fat loss while preserving muscle
Typical dose: 1-2mg injected subcutaneously 2x weekly (commonly Monday/Thursday)
Best for: People wanting sustained GH elevation, those stacking with Ipamorelin for comprehensive GH optimization
Duration: 12-24 weeks minimum, can use long-term
Learn more: Ipamorelin vs CJC-1295 and CJC-1295 calculator
DSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide)
Primary function: Promotes deep sleep and may help regulate sleep patterns
Main uses:
Sleep quality improvement
Insomnia treatment
Stress reduction
Recovery enhancement through better sleep
Typical dose: 100-300mcg injected before bed
Best for: People with sleep disorders, athletes needing better recovery through sleep optimization
Duration: Use as needed or 4-8 week protocols
Note: Less commonly used than other peptides, mixed results reported
Epithalon (Epitalon)
Primary function: May extend telomeres and activate telomerase for potential longevity benefits
Main uses:
Longevity and anti-aging
Cellular health optimization
Potential lifespan extension
Circadian rhythm regulation
Typical dose: 5-10mg total over 10-20 days, cycled 2-4x yearly
Best for: Biohackers focused on longevity, people interested in cutting-edge anti-aging
Duration: Short intensive cycles (10-20 days) repeated periodically
Note: Expensive, experimental, limited human data but intriguing animal studies
Follistatin
Primary function: Inhibits myostatin (muscle growth inhibitor) to allow enhanced muscle development
Main uses:
Extreme muscle building beyond natural limits
Breaking through muscle-building plateaus
Competitive bodybuilding
Muscle wasting conditions
Typical dose: 100mcg daily or every other day
Best for: Advanced users, competitive bodybuilders, people with muscle wasting conditions
Duration: 4-8 weeks typically
Note: Expensive, limited availability, advanced peptide for serious users only
GHK-Cu (Copper Peptides)
Primary function: Stimulates collagen production and reduces inflammation for skin rejuvenation and tissue repair
Main uses:
Skin anti-aging (reduces wrinkles, improves texture)
Hair growth and thickness
Wound healing
Anti-inflammatory effects
Tissue repair and remodeling
Typical dose: 1-3mg injected daily, or topical serums (1-3% concentration) applied 2x daily
Best for: People focused on skin aging, hair thinning, chronic inflammation
Duration: 12-24 weeks for significant skin/hair improvements
Learn more: GHK-Cu complete guide and glow peptides
GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2)
Primary function: Stimulates strong GH pulses and increases appetite
Main uses:
Muscle building with appetite enhancement
Bulking phases for hard gainers
GH stimulation with hunger benefits
Alternative to Ipamorelin when appetite increase desired
Typical dose: 100-300mcg injected 2-3x daily on empty stomach
Best for: People struggling to eat enough calories for muscle gain, bulking phases
Duration: 12-24 weeks
Note: Similar to Ipamorelin but with stronger hunger effects
GHRP-6 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6)
Primary function: Stimulates GH release with very strong appetite stimulation
Main uses:
Muscle building during aggressive bulking
Increasing appetite for hard gainers
GH stimulation when hunger is desired side effect
Typical dose: 100-300mcg injected 2-3x daily
Best for: Hard gainers, people needing significant appetite increase for muscle building
Duration: 12-24 weeks
Note: Strongest hunger-stimulating GH peptide, not ideal for cutting phases
Hexarelin
Primary function: Potent GH releaser with additional cardio-protective properties
Main uses:
Strong GH stimulation
Muscle building
Cardiovascular health support
Alternative to other GHRP peptides
Typical dose: 100-200mcg injected 2-3x daily
Best for: People wanting potent GH release, those with cardiovascular concerns
Duration: 8-16 weeks (potential desensitization with longer use)
Note: May cause desensitization with prolonged use, cycle on/off recommended
HGH Fragment 176-191
Primary function: Isolated fat-burning portion of growth hormone without other GH effects
Main uses:
Targeted fat loss
Fat burning without muscle gain
Cutting phases
Stubborn fat reduction
Typical dose: 250-500mcg injected subcutaneously 1-2x daily, fasted
Best for: People wanting only fat loss from GH (not muscle gain or other effects)
Duration: 12-16 weeks
Learn more: HGH Fragment calculator
Ipamorelin
Primary function: Selective GH releaser that creates natural GH pulses without affecting cortisol or appetite
Main uses:
Muscle building and body recomposition
Anti-aging (paired with CJC-1295)
Enhanced recovery
Sleep quality improvement
Fat loss while preserving muscle
Typical dose: 100-300mcg injected subcutaneously 2-3x daily (morning, afternoon, before bed)
Best for: Most people wanting GH benefits - cleanest side effect profile of GH peptides
Duration: 12-24 weeks minimum, safe for long-term use
Learn more: Ipamorelin vs CJC-1295 and muscle growth guide
Kisspeptin
Primary function: Regulates reproductive hormones and may help with fertility and hormonal balance
Main uses:
Fertility support
Hormonal regulation
Potential menopause symptom relief
Libido enhancement
Typical dose: 1-10mcg daily
Best for: People with fertility issues, hormonal imbalances
Duration: Varies by application
Note: Newer peptide with limited data, experimental
Melanotan II (MT2)
Primary function: Stimulates melanin production for tanning and has appetite suppression/libido effects
Main uses:
Tanning without UV exposure
Appetite suppression for fat loss
Libido enhancement
Skin protection (increased melanin)
Typical dose: 250-500mcg injected daily initially, then maintenance doses as needed
Best for: People wanting tan year-round, additional appetite suppression during dieting
Duration: Load for 2-4 weeks, then maintenance 1-2x weekly
Note: Tanning is cosmetic, appetite/libido effects bonus for some users
MGF (Mechano Growth Factor)
Primary function: Localized muscle growth and repair stimulation, especially post-workout
Main uses:
Muscle building and hypertrophy
Muscle repair after training
Injury recovery in muscle tissue
Localized muscle growth
Typical dose: 100-200mcg injected immediately post-workout, can inject locally near trained muscle
Best for: Bodybuilders, people wanting enhanced muscle growth response to training
Duration: Use on training days for 4-8 weeks
Note: Short half-life, must use immediately post-workout for best effects
Mod GRF 1-29 (CJC-1295 no DAC)
Primary function: Short-acting GH releaser that creates GH pulses when injected
Main uses:
GH stimulation with more frequent dosing
Paired with GHRP peptides for synergistic GH release
Muscle building and recovery
Alternative to CJC-1295 DAC for those wanting more control
Typical dose: 100-200mcg injected 2-3x daily with meals
Best for: People wanting multiple daily GH pulses, those preferring shorter-acting peptides
Duration: 12-24 weeks
Note: Requires more frequent dosing than CJC-1295 with DAC
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide)
Primary function: Enhances mitochondrial function and metabolic health
Main uses:
Energy and endurance enhancement
Metabolic health optimization
NAD+ boosting effects
Longevity and cellular health
Fat metabolism improvement
Typical dose: 5-15mg injected subcutaneously 2-3x weekly
Best for: People wanting increased energy, endurance athletes, longevity-focused individuals
Duration: 12-24 weeks minimum, can use long-term
Learn more: NAD+ peptides guide
PEG-MGF (Pegylated Mechano Growth Factor)
Primary function: Long-acting version of MGF for sustained muscle growth and repair
Main uses:
Muscle building and recovery
Systemic muscle growth (vs localized MGF)
Post-workout muscle repair
Injury recovery
Typical dose: 200-300mcg injected 2-3x weekly post-workout
Best for: Bodybuilders wanting sustained MGF effects without daily dosing
Duration: 4-8 weeks
Note: Pegylation extends half-life significantly vs regular MGF
Selank
Primary function: Anxiety reduction and cognitive enhancement without sedation
Main uses:
Anxiety and stress management
Cognitive function improvement
Focus and mental clarity
Mood stabilization
Immune system support
Typical dose: 250-500mcg injected or nasal spray 1-3x daily
Best for: People with anxiety, focus issues, high-stress situations
Duration: Use as needed or 4-8 week protocols
Note: Nootropic peptide, effects subtle but meaningful for anxiety/cognition
Semax
Primary function: Cognitive enhancement, focus improvement, and neuroprotection
Main uses:
Mental clarity and focus
Cognitive performance enhancement
Neuroprotection
Stroke recovery support
ADHD symptom management (anecdotal)
Typical dose: 300-600mcg nasal spray or injected 1-2x daily
Best for: People wanting cognitive enhancement, students, professionals with high mental demands
Duration: Use as needed or 4-12 week cycles
Note: Popular nootropic peptide with strong anecdotal support
Semaglutide
Primary function: GLP-1 receptor agonist that provides powerful appetite suppression for weight loss
Main uses:
Significant weight loss (15-20% body weight)
Appetite control
Blood sugar regulation
Obesity treatment
Metabolic health improvement
Typical dose: Start 0.25mg weekly, titrate up to 1-2.4mg weekly over 16-20 weeks
Best for: People needing to lose 20+ lbs, those with difficult appetite control, metabolic syndrome
Duration: 20-24 weeks to goal weight, then maintenance dose ongoing
Learn more: Semaglutide guide and semaglutide calculator
Sermorelin
Primary function: Stimulates natural GH release from pituitary gland
Main uses:
Growth hormone optimization
Anti-aging
Muscle building and recovery
Sleep quality improvement
Alternative to Ipamorelin (similar effects)
Typical dose: 200-300mcg injected subcutaneously before bed
Best for: People wanting GH benefits, those who prefer established older peptides
Duration: 12-24 weeks minimum
Note: Similar to Ipamorelin but less selective (may affect cortisol/prolactin slightly)
SS-31 (Elamipretide)
Primary function: Mitochondrial-targeted peptide that improves cellular energy production
Main uses:
Mitochondrial dysfunction
Chronic fatigue
Neurodegenerative disease support
Cardiovascular health
Aging-related energy decline
Typical dose: 5-20mg injected subcutaneously daily
Best for: People with chronic fatigue, mitochondrial issues, serious biohackers
Duration: 8-24 weeks
Note: Expensive, cutting-edge longevity peptide with promising research
TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4)
Primary function: Promotes cell migration and tissue organization for healing, especially tendons and ligaments
Main uses:
Tendon and ligament healing
Injury recovery (especially chronic injuries)
Flexibility and range of motion improvement
Scar tissue reduction
Hair growth (secondary benefit)
Typical dose: 2-10mg injected subcutaneously 2x weekly (higher doses for loading phase)
Best for: People with tendon/ligament injuries, chronic pain, flexibility issues
Duration: 8-16 weeks minimum for tissue healing
Learn more: TB-500 complete guide and TB-500 calculator
Tesamorelin
Primary function: Specifically reduces visceral (belly) fat while stimulating GH release
Main uses:
Visceral fat reduction
Belly fat specifically
Metabolic health improvement
HIV-associated lipodystrophy (original indication)
Typical dose: 1-2mg injected subcutaneously daily
Best for: People with stubborn belly fat, metabolic syndrome, visceral fat accumulation
Duration: 12-24 weeks
Note: More targeted for belly fat than general weight loss peptides
Thymosin Alpha-1
Primary function: Immune system modulation and enhancement
Main uses:
Immune function improvement
Chronic infections
Autoimmune condition support (may help or harm, individual assessment needed)
Cancer treatment support (adjunct)
Hepatitis treatment support
Typical dose: 1.6-3mg injected subcutaneously 2-3x weekly
Best for: People with compromised immunity, chronic infections, preventive immune support
Duration: 4-12 weeks for acute issues, can use long-term for chronic conditions
Note: Powerful immune modulator, consult doctor for autoimmune conditions
Tirzepatide
Primary function: Dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist for enhanced weight loss and metabolic benefits
Main uses:
Weight loss (slightly better than semaglutide, 15-22%)
Appetite suppression
Blood sugar control (superior to semaglutide)
Metabolic syndrome treatment
Typical dose: Start 2.5mg weekly, titrate to 5-15mg weekly over 16-20 weeks
Best for: People wanting maximum weight loss results, those with diabetes or prediabetes
Duration: 20-24 weeks to goal, then maintenance
Learn more: Tirzepatide dosing guide and semaglutide vs tirzepatide
Peptides by primary goal
Best peptides for injury recovery
Primary choices:
BPC-157: First-line for most injuries
TB-500: Especially tendons/ligaments
GHK-Cu: Chronic inflammation, skin wounds
Best stack: BPC-157 + TB-500 for severe injuries
Learn more: Injury recovery guide
Best peptides for muscle growth
Primary choices:
Ipamorelin: Clean GH pulses
CJC-1295: Sustained GH elevation
MGF/PEG-MGF: Localized muscle growth
GHRP-6: If appetite increase desired
Best stack: Ipamorelin + CJC-1295 (gold standard)
Learn more: Muscle growth guide
Best peptides for weight loss
Primary choices:
Semaglutide: Proven, effective, well-studied
Tirzepatide: Slightly better results
AOD-9604: Fat burning without appetite effects
HGH Fragment 176-191: Targeted fat loss
Best for most people: Semaglutide (effectiveness + cost + safety data)
Learn more: Weight loss guide
Best peptides for anti-aging
Primary choices:
Ipamorelin + CJC-1295: Foundation
NAD+ peptides (MOTS-c, SS-31): Cellular energy
GHK-Cu: Skin and inflammation
Epithalon: Experimental longevity
Best stack: Ipamorelin + CJC-1295 + MOTS-c + GHK-Cu (comprehensive)
Learn more: Anti-aging peptides
Best peptides for skin and hair
Primary choices:
GHK-Cu: Best for skin
TB-500: Hair growth potential
Ipamorelin + CJC-1295: Systemic skin improvement
Best approach: GHK-Cu topical (face) + injectable (systemic)
Learn more: Glow peptides guide
Best peptides for energy and performance
Primary choices:
MOTS-c: Mitochondrial function
SS-31: Cellular energy
Semax: Cognitive energy
Ipamorelin + CJC-1295: Overall vitality
Best for endurance: MOTS-c
Learn more: Athletic performance
Best peptides for gut health
Primary choice:
BPC-157: Heals leaky gut, IBS, gastritis
Secondary:
GHK-Cu: Anti-inflammatory for gut
Administration: Oral BPC-157 for direct gut contact, injectable for systemic
Learn more: Gut health peptides
How to choose the right peptide
Step 1: Identify your primary goal
What's your #1 objective right now?
Injury healing → BPC-157
Muscle building → Ipamorelin + CJC-1295
Weight loss → Semaglutide
Anti-aging → Ipamorelin + CJC-1295
Skin improvement → GHK-Cu
Energy → MOTS-c
Cognitive → Semax
Sleep → DSIP or Ipamorelin (improves sleep quality)
Start with one goal, one peptide (or proven stack like Ipamorelin + CJC-1295)
Step 2: Consider your experience level
Beginner: Start with well-studied, safe peptides
BPC-157 (injury)
Semaglutide (weight loss)
Ipamorelin + CJC-1295 (muscle/anti-aging)
Intermediate: Expand to secondary peptides
TB-500, GHK-Cu, NAD+ peptides
Advanced: Experimental or complex protocols
Epithalon, SS-31, stacking 3+ peptides
Don't start advanced. Master basics first.
Step 3: Assess budget
Budget-friendly options ($60-250/month):
BPC-157 alone
Semaglutide (research)
Single peptide protocols
Moderate budget ($300-500/month):
Ipamorelin + CJC-1295
BPC-157 + TB-500
Comprehensive single-goal protocols
Premium budget ($500-1000+/month):
Multiple peptide stacks
NAD+ peptides + GH peptides + others
Comprehensive anti-aging protocols
Use our peptide cost calculator to plan.
Step 4: Check contraindications
Avoid certain peptides if:
Pregnant/breastfeeding: Avoid all peptides (no safety data)
Active cancer: Avoid GH-releasing peptides (theoretical tumor growth concern)
Severe kidney/liver disease: Consult doctor before any peptides
Autoimmune conditions: Thymosin Alpha-1 may help or harm (individual assessment)
Always consult healthcare provider if serious health conditions present.
Read our peptide safety guide.
Step 5: Start and assess
Begin conservatively:
Start single peptide or proven stack
Use standard doses (not maximum)
Run 12-16 weeks minimum
Track progress weekly
Get blood work at 12 weeks
After first protocol:
Assess results objectively
Decide if continuing, switching, or adding peptides
Adjust based on experience
See our getting started guide.
Frequently asked questions
Which peptide is best for beginners?
BPC-157 (if injury), Semaglutide (if weight loss), or Ipamorelin + CJC-1295 (if muscle/anti-aging). All three have excellent safety profiles and clear benefits.
Can I stack multiple peptides from this list?
Yes, but start simple. BPC-157 + TB-500 stack works. Ipamorelin + CJC-1295 stack works. Don't stack 5+ peptides as beginner. Build complexity gradually.
How do I know if a peptide is working?
Track specific metrics (pain levels for BPC-157, weight for semaglutide, strength for Ipamorelin/CJC). Most peptides show effects in 4-8 weeks. Give adequate time.
Are research peptides legal?
Legal to purchase and possess for research purposes in most countries. Not FDA-approved for human consumption. Many people use them off-label. Check local laws.
Where do I buy these peptides?
Research peptide suppliers with third-party testing. Look for batch-specific COAs, established reputation, responsive support. See our best vendors guide.
Do all these peptides require injections?
Most yes (subcutaneous). Some available as nasal spray (Semax, Selank). BPC-157 can be oral for gut issues. Injections provide best bioavailability.
How much do these peptides cost?
$30-80 per vial typically. Monthly costs: $60-1000+ depending on which peptides and doses. Budget-friendly options exist for most goals.
Can women use all these peptides?
Yes, with same benefits and safety as men. Except avoid during pregnancy/breastfeeding. PT-141 particularly effective for women's libido issues. See our peptides for women guide.
Which peptides can be used long-term?
BPC-157, Ipamorelin, CJC-1295, NAD+ peptides, GHK-Cu safe for months to years. Weight loss peptides use until goal achieved. Cycle advanced peptides.
What's the most versatile peptide on this list?
BPC-157 - works for injuries, gut health, inflammation, prevention. Ipamorelin + CJC-1295 close second for comprehensive anti-aging/performance.
The bottom line
This complete peptide list covers 30+ research peptides organized for quick reference.
Most popular peptides:
BPC-157 (healing)
TB-500 (tendons/ligaments)
Ipamorelin + CJC-1295 (muscle/anti-aging)
Semaglutide (weight loss)
GHK-Cu (skin/hair)
MOTS-c (energy)
Best peptides by goal:
Injury: BPC-157, TB-500
Muscle: Ipamorelin + CJC-1295
Fat loss: Semaglutide, Tirzepatide
Anti-aging: Ipamorelin + CJC-1295 + NAD+ peptides
Skin: GHK-Cu
Energy: MOTS-c, SS-31
Getting started:
Identify primary goal
Choose appropriate peptide from list
Start with simple protocol (1-2 peptides max)
Run 12-16 weeks minimum
Assess results, adjust as needed
Use our peptide calculator to plan protocols.
Related resources
In case I don’t see you, good afternoon, good evening, and good night. Take care of yourself.
