Commonly people are talking about "peptides" to refer to a heterogeneous group of peptide medications or investigational compounds. These are increasingly promoted for injury recovery, tissue repair, performance and longevity, with BPC-157 attracting particular attention.

But what evidence supports the claims made about these compounds? How should animal studies, biological mechanisms and personal anecdotes be interpreted? What is currently known about their safety? And what do recent regulatory discussions actually mean for their medical status and availability?

In this episode, physician and Barbell Medicine founder Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum examines the evidence surrounding BPC-157 and other peptide medications, alongside the wider questions of risk, access and informed decision-making.

• [00:13] What we want to address

• [04:47] Interview start

• [05:29] What do we mean by "peptides"?

• [10:32] BPC-157 evidence

• [16:49] Sourcing of peptides

• [20:19] The gray zone of pro-peptide communication

• [24:16] Risk sourcing vs drug effects

• [26:25] FDA lists and compounding

• [31:05] Risk tolerance and informed consent

• [43:02] Why did pharma abandon peptide research?

• [47:44] Harm reduction debate

• [51:48] Practical takeaways

• [56:20] Key Ideas segment (Premium members only)

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• Barbell Medicine
• Instagram: jordan_barbellmedicine
• Book: Signal: What Testosterone Levels Are Telling You About Your Health
• Related episode: #524: Strength & Fitness Levels for Reducing Chronic Disease Risk & Promoting Health Ageing – Jordan Feigenbaum, MD
• Further reading:
  • Emerging use of BPC-157 in orthopaedic sports medicine: a systematic review. 2025.
  • Ruenzi M, Stolte M, Veljaca M, et al. Efficacy and safety of PL 14736 (BPC 157) in patients with active ulcerative colitis. Gastroenterology. 2005. Meeting abstract; full study not published.