Peptides

Peptides are short chains of amino acids linked by peptide bonds — typically containing between 2 and 50 amino acids. They are essentially small proteins and serve as signaling molecules, hormones, neurotransmitters, and antimicrobial agents throughout the body. While proteins are larger and form complex three-dimensional structures for mechanical and enzymatic functions, peptides tend to act as chemical messengers that trigger specific biological responses.

Your body produces thousands of different peptides with diverse functions. Insulin (51 amino acids) and glucagon (29 amino acids) regulate blood sugar. Oxytocin (9 amino acids) promotes bonding and uterine contractions. Endorphins modulate pain perception. Antimicrobial peptides (defensins) provide innate immune defense. Growth hormone-releasing peptides stimulate growth hormone secretion. Collagen peptides — fragments of the collagen protein — are widely used in supplements for skin, joint, and bone health.

Peptide therapeutics represent one of the fastest-growing segments of the pharmaceutical industry. Over 80 peptide drugs have been approved globally, treating conditions from diabetes (GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide) to osteoporosis to cancer. Peptides are also increasingly popular in cosmetic dermatology, where topical peptides are used to stimulate collagen production and address signs of aging.

Peptides are increasingly relevant in modern medicine. If you've been prescribed semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) for diabetes or weight management, you're using a peptide drug that mimics GLP-1, a natural gut peptide that regulates insulin secretion and appetite. Other peptide therapies include teriparatide for osteoporosis, octreotide for hormonal tumors, and desmopressin for diabetes insipidus.

In the wellness and cosmetic space, collagen peptides, BPC-157, and various growth hormone-releasing peptides have gained popularity, though evidence levels vary widely. Some peptides available through compounding pharmacies or online sources are not FDA-approved for their marketed uses, making it important to discuss any peptide supplementation with your healthcare provider.