Peptides have been applied in medicine to treat a wide range of conditions since the 1920s. These chemical compounds play a critical role in supporting key processes in the human body such as breathing, metabolism, digestion, and immune system functioning.
Peptides are naturally produced in the body, but their amount is reduced with aging, that is why scientists are actively studying the potential of their synthetic alternatives to improve human health. Nowadays, peptides are contained in anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and muscle-building supplements. In this article, we dive deep into peptides’ side effects and benefits to highlight what they are and what they do.
What are peptides?
Peptides are amino acids linked by specific chemical bonds. They consist of less than fifty amino acids and are part of the protein structure. Peptides are usually associated with hormonal activity. For example, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which helps our body manage stress, has a peptide structure.
Peptides are released into the bloodstream in response to biological processes. They are produced by the brain, pancreas, and other organs’ cells and work in the place of their origin. For example, oxytocin which is responsible for stimulating uterine contractions in labor and childbirth is released by the pituitary gland in response to breastfeeding and sexual activity.
Although peptides occur naturally in any living organism, scientists are studying peptide synthesis in a laboratory to mimic natural peptides or create new ones. Synthetic peptides give room for researchers to discover and test new vaccines and cancer treatments and improve people’s health and appearance.
Peptide therapy aims to restore the required level of peptides in the body so that it can use them to recover itself. Let’s see how peptide therapy works.
How does peptide therapy work?
Peptide therapy is prescribed by the therapist based on a thorough diagnostics of patients’ health including a physical exam and lab tests.
First, the therapist will assess your overall health condition and check your health history. Then, they can ask you to undergo specific lab tests to define if you’ve got any chronic conditions or something that can become the contra-indications for your therapy. Collected information will help a doctor to choose the best treatment option for you.
Peptide injection is the most efficient way to administer the drug to the bloodstream. However, some treatments may suppose using oral or topical medications to achieve desired goals.
Do not hesitate to share your health goals for peptide therapy with a doctor. A qualified medical expert will pick the medication form and dosage tailored to your personal needs. Peptide therapy is typically used for boosting stomach health, sexual function, immunity, and more. If you have more questions about peptide therapy, contact our specialists.
Peptide therapy: better recovery results
Many biological processes in our body slow down with aging leading to a drop in peptide levels. Peptide decrease may also occur due to exhaustion or illness. Luckily, peptide therapy helps our body function at its fullest potential.
Peptide therapy benefits include:
- Increased stamina
- Faster recovery
- Muscle gain
- Body fat reduction
- Increased immunity
- Improved erectile dysfunction
- Hormone balance
- Improved sleep
- Better joint health
- Rejuvenile effect
- Increased hair and skin quality
Peptide treatment is a natural way to combat aging symptoms, improve joint health and feel stronger. For some patients, peptides can help postpone or avoid surgical operations.
What are the side effects of peptide injections?
Peptides are considered safe due to their organic structure. Most people don’t experience any peptide therapy side effects. Still, it’s crucial to consider your health history and current medical condition before taking peptides. Don’t self-prescribe peptides, addressing a doctor is highly recommended.
Peptides are provided in different forms including pills, creams, and injections. They have a fragile structure that may be ruined by gastric juice if you take pills. Creams also don’t provide enough peptide absorption, causing decreased treatment efficacy. Besides, additional components in pills and topicals can cause allergic reactions.
The most effective way to administer peptides is through injection. The active substance enters the bloodstream directly via injections. Peptides’ side effects are slight and mostly associated with body adjustment to the dosage. You may have headaches and swelling for a short period.
Peptide injections may cause skin redness or pain at the injection site. To avoid peptide injections side effects change injection sites each time you get a drug. If you want to receive more effective results from peptide therapy, consult a doctor.
What peptides are there on the market?
The peptide therapeutics market was valued at USD 28.5 million in 2020 and is projected to grow with a CAGR of 9,66% in 2027. Scientists continue to develop novel drugs based on synthetic peptides. Some peptides used in promoting body composition and combating aging include:
- Sermorelin is used to boost human growth hormone levels. HGH provides fast tissue regeneration and boosts metabolism.
- Ipamorelin targets ghrelin (hunger hormone) receptors and stimulates muscle mass gain.
- AOD 9604 stimulates lipolysis and boosts metabolisms without affecting blood sugar levels.
- GHRP-2 and GHRP-6 increase HGH levels.
Peptides, which are mentioned above, are safe for most adults. Their biological activity is different, though. Some of them may increase appetite and boost weight gain in a way you don’t want. Trust a doctor in choosing the proper drug and dosage for you.
Keep in mind that no medicine alone can give you desired results. You should keep a healthy lifestyle and sleep hygiene to make the most of your peptide therapy.
The bottom line
Peptide therapy is a part of regenerative and preventive medicine. More than 60 therapeutic peptides are successfully used in treating diabetes, hormone imbalances, and more. Peptides have the potential to promote overall well-being as well as deliver results in improving body composition, treating joint pain, supporting tendon health, and boosting recovery.
Plenty of research teams study peptides’ side effects and benefits to provide safe and effective treatment options for patients. Studies report that peptides are safe and can only cause slight headaches, swelling, increased appetite, and dizziness. But as soon as the body adjusts to the dosage, the discomfort disappears.
So is peptide therapy right for you? Definitely, it is. If you don’t suffer from a severe illness, most likely peptide therapy will be useful for you. Still, we recommend addressing a doctor for advice and peptide prescription. Getting drugs from a licensed facility is best for your health and safety. If you want to learn more details on how to receive peptide therapy, contact our specialists.
