Question 1

What are peptides?

Accepted Answer

Peptides are short chains of amino acids (typically 2-50) linked by peptide bonds. They're essentially small proteins that act as signaling molecules in the body. Many hormones, neurotransmitters, and growth factors are peptides. Examples include insulin, oxytocin, and growth hormone releasing peptides.

Question 2

What's the difference between peptides and proteins?

Accepted Answer

The main difference is size. Peptides contain 2-50 amino acids, while proteins contain 50+ amino acids. Proteins have more complex three-dimensional structures and typically serve structural or enzymatic functions, while peptides often act as signaling molecules. The distinction can be fuzzy, as some molecules in the 40-60 amino acid range may be called either.

Question 3

How do peptides work in the body?

Accepted Answer

Peptides work by binding to specific receptors on cell surfaces or inside cells, triggering biological responses. Different peptides target different receptors - for example, GLP-1 peptides bind to GLP-1 receptors affecting appetite and blood sugar, while growth hormone releasing peptides bind to ghrelin receptors to stimulate GH release. This receptor specificity determines what effects each peptide has.

Question 4

Are peptides the same as steroids?

Accepted Answer

No, peptides and steroids are completely different. Steroids are lipid-based compounds derived from cholesterol (like testosterone, cortisol), while peptides are chains of amino acids. They work through different mechanisms - steroids typically enter cells and affect gene expression directly, while most peptides work through cell surface receptors. The effects, side effects, and regulatory status are different.

Question 5

Are peptides legal?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the peptide and jurisdiction. Many peptides are FDA-approved prescription medications (insulin, semaglutide, oxytocin). Others are sold as 'research chemicals' which can be legally purchased but not for human use. Some peptides are banned by sports organizations. The legal status varies by country. Always check local regulations and work with healthcare providers for any medical use.

Question 6

Are peptides safe?

Accepted Answer

Safety varies widely by peptide. FDA-approved peptides like insulin and GLP-1 agonists have extensive safety data. Research peptides have less human data and unknown long-term effects. 'Natural' doesn't mean safe - many toxins are peptides. Safety depends on the specific compound, dose, purity, and individual factors. Always consult healthcare providers and understand that research peptides carry unknown risks.

Question 7

What does 'research chemical' mean for peptides?

Accepted Answer

A 'research chemical' peptide is one sold for laboratory research purposes, not approved for human use. This designation allows legal sale but means: limited human safety data, no FDA oversight of the product, variable quality control, and use is at your own risk. Many promising peptides remain in this category while awaiting clinical trials. It's not a guarantee of safety or efficacy.

Question 8

How are peptides typically administered?

Accepted Answer

Most peptides are injected subcutaneously (under the skin) because they're broken down by digestion if taken orally. Some can be administered intranasally (Semax, Selank), intramuscularly, or intravenously. A few have been specially formulated for oral use (oral semaglutide uses a special absorption enhancer). Topical peptides are used in skincare. The route depends on the peptide's stability and target.

Question 9

Why are some peptides FDA approved and others not?

Accepted Answer

FDA approval requires extensive clinical trials proving safety and efficacy for specific conditions - a process costing hundreds of millions of dollars. Many peptides haven't completed this process due to: ongoing research, lack of commercial interest, failed trials, or being too new. FDA-approved peptides (insulin, semaglutide, etc.) have proven safety profiles. Non-approved peptides may work but lack this validation.

Question 10

What are common side effects of peptides?

Accepted Answer

Side effects vary by peptide class. GLP-1 agonists commonly cause nausea, vomiting, and GI effects. Growth hormone peptides may cause water retention, joint pain, and blood sugar changes. Healing peptides like BPC-157 have few reported side effects in studies. Some peptides affect hormones with potential long-term implications. Always research specific peptides and report unusual symptoms to healthcare providers.

Question 11

What is Peptibase?

Accepted Answer

Peptibase is a peptide research platform with an educational database and a shop that connects you directly to vetted manufacturers. Our database includes detailed profiles of peptides with their mechanisms, research summaries, and important considerations. Through our shop, you can purchase research-grade peptides at near-factory prices from verified suppliers. Peptibase is not a medical provider and does not offer medical advice.

Question 12

How is the information on Peptibase sourced?

Accepted Answer

Our information comes from peer-reviewed scientific literature, clinical trial data, and FDA documentation. Each peptide profile includes references to PubMed studies and official sources. We prioritize human clinical data where available, noting when information is from animal studies or preclinical research. We regularly update content as new research emerges.

Question 13

How often is the Peptibase database updated?

Accepted Answer

We continuously update our database as new research is published, clinical trials complete, and FDA approvals change. Major updates occur monthly, with more frequent additions of new peptides and research findings. The peptide field evolves rapidly, so we strive to keep information current while maintaining accuracy.

Question 14

Can I suggest a peptide to add to the database?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We welcome suggestions for peptides to add to our database. Please contact us through our contact page with the peptide name and any relevant research you'd like us to review. We prioritize peptides with published research, clinical significance, or growing interest in the research community.

Question 15

Is Peptibase medical advice?

Accepted Answer

No. Peptibase provides educational information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. We do not recommend, prescribe, or endorse any peptide use. Always consult qualified healthcare providers before making any health decisions. Our content is for informational purposes to help you understand peptide research.

Question 16

What are Growth Hormone Secretagogues?

Accepted Answer

Growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) are compounds that stimulate the body's natural production of growth hormone. They include GHRPs (like Ipamorelin, GHRP-6) that work through ghrelin receptors, and GHRH analogs (like Sermorelin, CJC-1295) that mimic natural growth hormone releasing hormone. Unlike exogenous GH, secretagogues maintain natural pulsatile release patterns.

Question 17

What are healing peptides?

Accepted Answer

Healing peptides are compounds researched for tissue repair and recovery. BPC-157, derived from gastric juice proteins, is studied for tendon, ligament, and gut healing. TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4) promotes cell migration and wound healing. These peptides work through mechanisms like promoting angiogenesis, reducing inflammation, and enhancing collagen synthesis.

Question 18

What are cognitive or nootropic peptides?

Accepted Answer

Cognitive peptides are researched for brain health and mental performance. Semax and Selank, approved in Russia, affect BDNF and neurotransmitter systems. Dihexa promotes synaptogenesis. Cerebrolysin contains neurotrophic factors. These peptides are studied for neuroprotection, memory enhancement, and anxiety reduction, though most lack FDA approval.

Question 19

What are GLP-1 peptides?

Accepted Answer

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonists mimic a natural hormone that regulates blood sugar and appetite. FDA-approved examples include semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound). They're approved for type 2 diabetes and weight management. Newer versions like retatrutide target multiple receptors for enhanced effects.

Question 20

What are cosmetic peptides?

Accepted Answer

Cosmetic peptides are used in skincare products for anti-aging effects. GHK-Cu (copper peptide) stimulates collagen synthesis. Argireline and Snap-8 reduce wrinkles by inhibiting muscle contraction. Matrixyl promotes collagen production. These are applied topically and have good safety profiles for skincare use.

Question 21

How should peptides be stored?

Accepted Answer

Lyophilized (powder) peptides should be stored in the refrigerator (2-8°C) for routine use, or freezer (-20°C) for long-term storage. Keep them sealed and protected from light. Reconstituted peptides must be refrigerated and used within 2-4 weeks - never freeze reconstituted peptides. Always follow specific manufacturer guidelines.

Question 22

How are peptides reconstituted?

Accepted Answer

To reconstitute peptides: let the vial reach room temperature, clean the top with alcohol, slowly add bacteriostatic water along the vial wall (not directly on powder), and swirl gently - never shake. Wait for complete dissolution before use. Use bacteriostatic water for multi-dose vials and label with the date. Follow specific instructions for each peptide.

Question 23

How do I report incorrect information on Peptibase?

Accepted Answer

If you find information you believe is incorrect, please contact us through our contact page with details about the error and any supporting references. We take accuracy seriously and will review and update information as needed. We appreciate the community helping us maintain the highest quality educational resource.

Question 24

How long does shipping take?

Accepted Answer

Most orders arrive within about 2 weeks. You'll get a tracking number by email as soon as it ships. Tracking can go quiet for up to 10 days at customs, especially on international orders. That's normal. If it hasn't moved after that, reply to any of our emails and we'll chase it.

Question 25

How much does shipping cost?

Accepted Answer

Shipping costs depend on your order total and supplier. NovaPep: orders under $300 pay $60 shipping, $300-499 pay $30, and orders $500+ ship free. Welon: orders under $800 pay $60, and orders $800+ ship free. Shipping costs are calculated automatically at checkout based on your cart.

Question 26

How do I track my order?

Accepted Answer

You'll receive an email with your tracking number when your order ships. Use the tracking link in that email or go to 17track.net and paste your tracking number. If you have a Peptibase account, you can also see your full order history and tracking info at peptibase.dev/account. No account? Use our order lookup tool at peptibase.dev/shop/order-lookup with your email and order number.

Question 27

My order hasn't shipped yet. Is something wrong?

Accepted Answer

Most orders arrive within about 2 weeks total. Processing usually takes a few days before the supplier hands it to the carrier. If your order hasn't shipped after 5 business days, just reply to your order email or write us at hello@peptibase.dev and we'll check in with the supplier. Weekends and Chinese holiday periods can add a few days.

Question 28

My tracking number isn't showing any updates.

Accepted Answer

International tracking can be slow to update, especially in the first 3-5 days after shipping. The package is in transit even if tracking shows no movement. Chinese logistics carriers sometimes don't update until the package reaches your country's postal system. If there's no update after 10 business days, contact us and we'll check with the supplier.

Question 29

Which countries do you ship to?

Accepted Answer

We ship to the US, UK, most of Europe (Netherlands, Germany, France, Italy, Belgium, Ireland, and more), Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, and other countries. Coverage depends on the supplier. Check peptibase.dev/shop/shipping to see exactly which suppliers ship to your country. Some countries like Australia and Canada are available but have a small risk of customs delays.

Question 30

What happens if my package gets seized by customs?

Accepted Answer

For shipments to countries with higher customs risk (like Australia and Canada), we offer a free reship if your package is seized. You'll see a disclaimer about this at checkout. Just contact us at hello@peptibase.dev with your order number and we'll arrange a replacement shipment at no extra cost.

Question 31

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) through Stripe, and cryptocurrency (USDC on Solana or Ethereum). Card payments are processed instantly. For crypto, you'll receive wallet addresses after placing your order and have 24 hours to complete payment.

Question 32

Can I buy just a single vial instead of a full kit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some suppliers offer single vial purchases. Look for the 'Single Vial' option on the product page. This is great if you want to test a product before committing to a full kit of 10 vials. Not all products have this option, but many popular ones do.

Question 33

Do your suppliers provide COAs (Certificates of Analysis)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We display third-party COAs on our product pages when available. These verify the identity, purity, and dosage of each product. You can view COAs directly on the product page or on our dedicated COA page at peptibase.dev/shop/coas. We're continuously adding more COAs as suppliers provide them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Jump to Section

General

Safety

Peptide Types

Practical

Still have questions?

Stay Updated