October 19, 2026
Peptidesare attracting growing public interest, particularly following the success ofpeptide-based medicines used for diabetes and weight management. But not allproducts described as “peptides” have the same evidence, quality or safetyprofile.
Peptides are chains of amino acids that canact as signalling molecules in the body. Some peptide-based treatments havebeen used safely in conventional medicine for many years. Examples includeinsulin and certain hormone therapies. Newer medicines such as semaglutide (Ozempic)and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) also act on hormone pathways involved inblood-glucose regulation and appetite. These regulated medicines have definedindications, have been evaluated for adverse effects and have appropriate manufacturingstandards and clinical evidence supporting their approved use.
The concern relates mainly to experimentalor unregistered peptides promoted for purposes such as injury recovery, musclegrowth, anti-ageing, longevity, improved concentration, collagen stimulation ortanning. For many of these products, the claimed benefits are based largely onlaboratory or animal research, with little or no reliable evidence fromwell-designed human clinical trials. Their long-term effects are often unknown.
Products bought through social media, gyms,wellness centres or unverified online suppliers may not have undergoneappropriate regulatory review. The contents may differ from the label, the dosemay be inaccurate, and contamination or adulteration may occur. Injectableproducts also carry risks associated with sterility and infection.
BPC-157.This experimental peptide is promoted for tissuehealing, muscle repair and recovery. Although preclinical findings havegenerated interest, robust human evidence remains extremely limited. Proposedeffects on new blood-vessel formation also raise a theoretical concern abouttumour stimulation, but this has not been established as a clinical outcome inhumans. The absence of adequate safety studies means that unexpected adverseeffects cannot be excluded.
Melanotanproducts. Unregistered tanning peptides,particularly Melanotan II, are promoted as a way to darken the skin without sunexposure. Reported effects include nausea, flushing, darkening of freckles andthe development or rapid change of moles. There have been case reports raisingconcern about melanoma, although a causal relationship has not beenestablished. These illicit tanning products should not be confused withafamelanotide, a regulated medicine used for a specific rare medical conditionin certain countries.
· Speak toyour treating doctor or the IMC clinical team before starting any peptide-basedtreatment.
· Confirmthat the medicine is registered with SAHPRA and is being prescribed for anappropriate medical indication.
· Useproducts supplied in their original packaging and dispensed by a licensedpharmacy.
· Avoidinjectable products obtained through social media, gyms, wellness centres orunverified online suppliers.
· Tell yourdoctor about all medicines and supplements you use so that possibleinteractions and contraindications can be considered.
The key distinction is not simply whether a treatmentis a peptide, but whether that specific product has credible evidence,appropriate regulatory oversight and a clear medical indication. If you areconsidering a peptide treatment or have already obtained one, please contactthe IMC clinical team for guidance.
· South African Health Products Regulatory Authority.Peptide Products – Public Information.
· Government of Canada. Think twice before injectingpeptides bought online: unauthorized products can seriously harm you. Updated 9April 2026.
· McGuireFP, Martinez R, Lenz A, Skinner L, Cushman DM. Regeneration or Risk? ANarrative Review of BPC-157 for Musculoskeletal Healing. Curr Rev MusculoskeletMed. 2025;18:611–619.
· Therapeutic Goods Administration. Don’t risk usingtanning products containing Melanotan.
· PiatkowskiT, Ganson KT, Nagata JM. Illicit Injectable Peptides and Regulatory Gaps. JAMA.2026;336(3):189–190.
This article is intended for general educationand does not replace individual medical advice. Treatment decisions should bemade in consultation with a registered healthcare professional.
