Marketed for recovery from injuries and muscle building... What are the side effects of peptide injections?

SadaNews - Peptides that can be injected have seen an increasing popularity as a health trend discussed by celebrities and fitness experts. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that form the building blocks of proteins, marketed as substances that accelerate recovery from injuries, build muscles, slow down signs of aging, and even assist in weight loss.

However, many injectable peptides are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and may be risky, according to the 'Verywell Health' website.

What are injectable peptides?

There are many unregulated injectable peptides available on the market, with names reminiscent of science fiction robots, including 'BPC-157', which is promoted for wound healing and recovery from injuries, and 'CJC-1295', said to increase muscle mass. These peptides have not undergone sufficient safety studies or reviews by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Dr. Anthony C. Tam, a primary care and sports medicine physician at the Henry Ford Health Center in Detroit, told 'Verywell Health': "We still do not know if the benefits achieved in clinical trials and animal studies will actually translate to outcomes applicable to humans. It is great to see that we continue our efforts in health and recovery, but we need more research to determine precisely whether this will be beneficial."

Here are 4 risks to consider before taking unregulated peptide injections:

Pain or skin reaction at the injection site

Peptide injections may cause skin reactions, and some people who have used 'BPC-157' have reported pain and swelling at the injection site.

Monitor your skin for any redness, pain, swelling, or skin changes at the injection site. However, since these products are unregulated, you may not know the expected side effects, as Dr. Lauren A. Fine in Chicago states.

Fine explains: "If you feel any difference or something happens within 24 to 72 hours after the injection, it could be a side effect."

Potential drug interactions

Another concern regarding unregulated peptide injections is unknown drug interactions. Tam states: "We do not know whether there are any drug interactions or interactions with specific medical conditions that might raise concerns."

While there is no confirmed information on this matter, it is advisable to talk with a healthcare provider about any risks arising from combining peptide injections with your current medications.

Fatigue or headaches

Some people have reported feelings of fatigue, headaches, and dizziness after taking unlicensed peptide injections, according to Tam.

Headaches and drowsiness can also indicate low blood sugar levels as a result of certain peptide injections.

Gastrointestinal issues or changes in appetite

Approved peptide injections have been associated with gastrointestinal issues. Individuals taking insulin injections may experience constipation, while those taking semaglutide injections may suffer from nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

Tam added that it is also common to report gastrointestinal issues and appetite changes when using unapproved injectable peptides.