Peptide therapy has become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to enhance health, wellbeing, and performance. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules in the body. Some peptides have been shown to support muscle growth, fat loss, injury recovery, immune function, sleep, energy, mood, and more.
There are a few different ways to obtain peptide therapy:
- Visit a peptide therapy clinic - This is often the easiest and most reliable way to get peptides. Clinics like Balance Hormone Clinic specialize in peptide therapies and employ medical professionals to evaluate clients and prescribe customized peptide protocols. The peptides are pharmaceutical-grade and prepared in sterile environments. Clinics can offer peptides like sermorelin, ipamorelin, AOD-9604, and BPC-157. Treatment is administered via injection or nasal spray.
- Get a prescription from a doctor - Some regular healthcare providers like anti-aging doctors or longevity physicians may prescribe peptides if they believe a patient could benefit. They can write prescriptions for peptides that patients fill through specialty compounding pharmacies. However, not all doctors are familiar with peptides and may be hesitant to prescribe them.
- Order peptides online - There are many peptide companies that sell research peptides on the internet. However, the quality and purity of these products can be questionable. The dosing instructions may also be unclear. It's recommended to be cautious when ordering peptides online and to only use high-quality, reputable sources.
- Join a clinical trial - There are occasional clinical trials that test novel peptide compounds. Joining a trial could give access to cutting-edge peptides. However, they are usually only looking for patients with specific conditions and the peptides have not yet been proven safe or effective.
Once you've obtained peptides from one of these sources, proper handling and dosing is important:
- Store peptides correctly - Peptides are delicate molecules and must be kept refrigerated until use. Avoid exposing them to temperature extremes.
- Use sterile needles and follow injection guidelines - Peptides injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly. Use new sterile syringes and needles every time. Rotate injection sites to avoid irritation.
- Follow the dosage instructions - The dose and frequency will depend on the specific peptide, your goals, and the prescribing provider. Taking too much can increase side effects. Start low and gradually increase if needed.
- Be aware of potential side effects - Possible side effects of peptides include flushing, headache, nausea, and lightheadedness. More concerning immune or hormonal effects are also possible if misused. Discontinue use if any troubling reactions occur.
Some key things to keep in mind when using peptide therapy:
- Work with a professional - Getting peptides through a clinic, doctor, or clinical trial is recommended for optimal safety and results. Self-prescribing peptides has risks.
- Do your research - Learn about the specific peptides you plan to use, typical dosing, potential side effects, and how they should be handled and injected. Proper peptide use requires education.
- Be patient - It takes consistent use of peptides over weeks or months to notice benefits. Acute effects right after dosing are not the ultimate goal. Manage expectations and stick to the plan.
- Get bloodwork - Lab testing can help monitor hormone levels, biomarkers of aging, inflammation, and other metrics to make sure peptides are helping and not causing issues.
Used correctly under professional supervision, peptide therapy can be a safe, non-invasive way to keep the body strong and optimized as we age. Consult with a practitioner to see if peptide supplementation is right for your needs. Companies like Balance Hormone Clinic offer personalized peptide treatment plans to help clients live healthier and longer.
