01/01/2026
🧐1. Work with a knowledgeable provider
Peptides act on real hormone and signaling pathways, so they’re not “just supplements.”
Use them under medical supervision, especially if injectable or prescription
📈2. Quality & sourcing matter
Prefer pharmacy-compounded, prescription products.
Avoid:
- “Research only” websites
- Underground/black-market products
- Vials or sprays with no clear dosing, ingredients, or testing
Look for products with third-party testing and proper labeling if using over-the-counter cosmetic peptides (creams, serums, collagen blends).
🥴3. Possible side effects
Side effects vary by peptide, but can include:
Nausea, bloating, diarrhea or constipation, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, sleep changes, injection site reactions (redness, swelling, irritation), changes in appetite, weight, mood, or blood sugar (especially with metabolic peptides)
Any new or worsening symptom (chest pain, severe abdominal pain, vision changes, severe mood changes, allergic reaction, etc.) = call your provider immediately.
⚠️4. Who should be extra cautious?
People who especially need close medical oversight (or may need to avoid certain peptides):
History of cancer or active cancer
Significant liver, kidney, heart, or gallbladder disease
Uncontrolled diabetes, severe insulin resistance, or frequent hypoglycemia
Autoimmune disease or on immune-suppressing medications
Pregnancy, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding
History of eating disorders or major mental health conditions
Those taking multiple medications (risk of interactions)
🧱5. Dose, duration & stacking
More is not better. Higher doses and “stacking” lots of peptides increases risk of side effects and unknown interactions.
Use lowest effective dose for the shortest appropriate time, with clear start/stop points and follow-up.
🚩6. Red flags to avoid
Be very cautious if you see:
“Miracle” promises (massive fat loss, muscle gain, anti-aging) with no mention of risks
No medical history taken, no labs, no follow-up
Products sold only through DMs, influencers, or unregulated online shops
Pressure to buy large “stacks” or long “cycles” up front