Peptide therapy is an increasingly popular approach to health and wellness. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules in the body, helping to regulate processes such as hormone production, hunger, tissue repair, immune response, and metabolism (citation #1).
The peptides used for therapeutic and wellness purposes are either naturally occurring in the body, or derivatives of naturally occurring peptides. Several are FDA-approved for use in certain medical conditions.
Unlike traditional medications, peptides work by mimicking the body’s own mechanisms, often leading to targeted improvements with potentially fewer side effects. This therapy has gained popularity for its role in anti-aging, recovery enhancement, and overall vitality.
At MD Total Wellness, we offer a curated selection of peptides, several of which are described in more detail below. We often combine peptide therapy with bioidentical hormone therapy (BHT). BHT provides foundational balance, and peptide therapy targets specific wellness goals, such as enhanced energy levels, better metabolic function, improved intimate health, improved sleep, and accelerated recovery from daily stressors or injuries (citation #2).
Schedule a free consultation to learn more about peptide therapy and whether it might be right for you.
Sermorelin is a synthetic peptide that functions as a growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog, stimulating the pituitary gland to increase the production and release of human growth hormone (hGH). Sermorelin helps restore hGH levels that naturally decline with age (citation #3).
Sermorelin was an FDA-approved medication for use in children with GH deficiency. The manufacturer stopped production of sermorelin in 2008 for economic reasons, not safety or efficacy reasons. The fact that sermorelin was FDA-approved means it was fully studied and found to be safe and effective for children with GH deficiency.
Sermorelin is currently used, off-label and in non-FDA-approved formulations, as a wellness intervention to counter the natural decrease in growth hormone that occurs with age. Symptoms of hGH deficiency that may be improved with sermorelin include fatigue, reduced muscle mass, weight gain, and poor sleep quality. Users often report increased energy, better mood, and faster recovery from exercise (citation #4).
At MDTW we often add sermorelin to hormone therapy care plans to enhance wellness outcomes.
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine, known for its role in tissue remodeling and repair. It combines the amino acid sequence glycine-histidine-lysine with copper ions, enabling copper to penetrate cells and exert biological effects (citation #6).
The rationale for GHK-Cu use is its anti-aging and healing properties. It stimulates collagen and elastin production, reduces inflammation, and acts as an antioxidant to combat oxidative stress, leading to improved skin health, wound healing, and hair growth. It is frequently used in cosmetic-grade and prescription-grade skin care products. Additionally, it may support nerve regeneration and immune function, making it useful for overall rejuvenation (citation #7).
Prescribed off-label at MD Total Wellness as an injection for wellness applications, GHK-Cu is not FDA-approved for these uses but is commonly employed in regenerative medicine to promote youthful skin, reduce fine lines, and aid in recovery from environmental damage or minor injuries (citation #6).
PT-141, also known as bremelanotide, is a synthetic peptide derived from melanocyte-stimulating hormone that targets melanocortin receptors in the brain to modulate sexual arousal pathways. Unlike traditional treatments that focus on blood flow, it works centrally to influence desire (citation #8).
PT-141 is FDA-approved for the use in women with hypoactive sexual desire syndrome (HSDD). It is frequently used off-label to increase libido and arousal in both men and women, and as a treatment for erectile dysfunction. Benefits include heightened sexual satisfaction, improved intimacy, and potential mood enhancement due to its neurological effects. It’s particularly useful for those where psychological factors play a role in sexual health challenges (citation #9).
At MD Total Wellness, PT-141 is used off-label for sexual wellness to specifically target libido and sexual dysfunction (citation #8).
BPC-157 is a synthetic peptide derived from “body protection compound,” a naturally occurring peptide found in the GI tract, renowned for its cytoprotective and regenerative capabilities. It promotes angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation) and modulates inflammatory responses (citation #10).
The rationale for using BPC-157 revolves around its profound healing effects on musculoskeletal tissues, including tendons, ligaments, and muscles, as well as gut integrity. It accelerates wound healing, reduces pain from injuries, and supports joint health, making it ideal for athletes or those with chronic conditions. Emerging research also suggests benefits for neurological repair and anti-inflammatory wellness (citation #10).
Of note, BPC-157 is not FDA-approved, and has not been formally studied in humans. There is a wealth of animal data demonstrating impressive healing and recovery outcomes, and substantial anecdotal data in humans reporting efficacy. Nonetheless, there are hundreds of thousands people using BPC-157, and we feel comfortable prescribing it, as long as patients understand the potential risks.
Peptide therapy is an increasingly popular approach for wellness. At MD Total Wellness, we use peptide therapy selectively, generally in addition to hormone therapy to optimize wellness outcomes. If you want to learn more about hormone therapy or peptide therapy, schedule a free consult by calling our office or submitting a contract form.
1. Peptides: Types, Applications, Benefits & Safety – WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-are-peptides
2. Peptide and Hormone Therapy Explained – LifeWell MD. https://lifewellmd.com/the-benefits-of-peptide-and-hormone-replacement-therapy-for-wellness/
3. Sermorelin Therapy Benefits, Risks, Uses, Approval, and Side Effects. https://www.healthline.com/health/sermorelin
4. Sermorelin: A better approach to management of adult-onset growth. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2699646/
5. Sermorelin Peptide | Benefits, Safety, & Buying Advice [2025]. https://www.innerbody.com/sermorelin
6. The potential of GHK as an anti-aging peptide – PMC. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8789089/
7. The Human Tripeptide GHK-Cu in Prevention of Oxidative Stress. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3359723/
8. PT-141 Peptide Therapy: Overview, Uses, Dosage, and Safety. https://evolvetelemed.com/peptides/pt-141-peptide-therapy/
9. Unlocking the Benefits of PT-141 for Men and Women. https://prestigemedigroup.com/unlocking-the-benefits-of-pt-141-for-men-and-women/
10. What is BPC 157 and How Can It Benefit Me? – Cima Health. https://cimahealth.com/what-is-bpc-157/
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