Peptide Use in Anti-Aging and Longevity
The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual health conditions and responses to treatment can vary greatly, and the potential uses of peptides as discussed should not be taken as medical guidance or a treatment recommendation. It is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider or a qualified medical professional to obtain advice tailored to your specific health situation. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen.
Peptide Use in Anti-Aging and Longevity
As our understanding of aging processes deepens, there has been a surge in research and development aimed at slowing down or even reversing the effects of aging. One exciting frontier in this endeavour is the use of therapeutic peptides. While these short-chain amino acids cannot perform miracles, therapeutic peptides may address some factors contributing to premature cellular aging, offering a new avenue for innovative anti-aging treatments.
While some peptides for anti-aging have been researched for decades, others are newer, with limited evidence to support their use. It’s important to remember that high-quality evidence is still needed to support using peptides for anti-aging and increasing longevity. This is an important point as many peptides are still classified for research purposes only due to the limited amount of human clinical trials conducted.
Some commonly used peptides in the anti-aging and longevity space include;
Collagen Peptides
Collagen is the protein responsible for healthy joints and skin elasticity. As you age, your existing collagen breaks down, making it harder for your body to produce more. Research suggests that taking collagen supplements (hydrolyzed collagen) may improve certain aspects of skin and bone health. Collagen supplements are safe to use and well tolerated when used as a supplement.
GHK-Cu (Copper Tripeptide-1)
GHK-Cu is a copper-binding peptide with many benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. It has antioxidant properties and supports collagen production, which is why it has been widely used in creams and serums for its anti-aging potential.
Overuse of copper peptides in any form of skincare can be bad, but your best line of defence is just not ingesting them. While they're way gentler than retinoids are, they can still cause a rash. Also of note, too much copper intake can make you nauseous and give you gastrointestinal issues.
Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy)
Semaglutide was developed to treat type 2 diabetes. It mimics hormones that control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. However, it has also been found to affect appetite, resulting in fewer cravings, a change in preferences away from fatty foods and less overall energy intake.
In one study, participants lost, on average 15 per cent of their body weight while taking the drug and other studies show Semaglutide helps 66-84 per cent of people who use the drug to lose weight.
Semaglutide can cause nausea, bloating, constipation and diarrhoea. However, these side effects can be minimised by starting with a lower dose and adjusting it over time.
Body Protection Compound 157 – BPC 157
BPC 157 is a 15-chain amino acid peptide discovered in and isolated from human gastric juice. Three of its primary mechanisms of action include new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis), the release of the vasodilator nitric oxide and the upregulation of healing factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). For this reason, BPC 157 is used for healing wounds and injuries in muscles, tendons, ligaments, bone and skin. It may also protect organs and prevent ulcers of the stomach.
Possible side effects include injection site irritation and peripheral edema. It should be noted that the benefits and side effects of BPC 157 are not well-researched or tested in controlled clinical trials in humans.
CJC 1295 + Ipamorelin
CJC-1295 is a growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analogue. It stimulates the pituitary gland to increase the production of human growth hormone (HGH). It does this by affecting the frequency and timing of the body’s “pulse” that secrete human growth hormone (hGH) through increasing production of hGH-releasing cells (somatotropes) and the amount released by cells. CJC-1295 also produces an increase in insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), a hormone that mediates the effects of hGH.
Ipamorelin is a growth hormone-releasing peptide (GHRP). It increases the size of the “pulses” by preventing the inhibition of hGH release and promotes the release of more GHRH.
Combined, CJC 1295 and Ipamorelin stimulate the pituitary gland from two different sides, causing elevated growth hormone production. This combination can increase hGH produced in the body by acting in two different families of receptors. CJC 1295 is found to help extend the half-life of Ipamorelin, thereby extending its effectiveness. Possible benefits of CJC 1295 + Ipamorelin include;
Increased Bone Density: Helps in preventing common injuries associated with aging.
Increase in Muscle Mass: Contributes to higher metabolism and less body fat.
Strengthens the Cardiovascular System: Enhances overall optimal health.
Ability to Burn Fat: Boosts resting metabolic rate, leading to more calories burned.
Increased Sex Drive
Improved Recovery and Repair from Injuries: This leads to overall improved well-being.
Strengthens Immune System: Enhances resistance to illnesses.
Improves Cognition and Memory Function: Enhances mental clarity and focus.
Improves Insulin Sensitivity: Reduces triglycerides and helps burn more body fat.
Skin Elasticity: Younger-looking skin.
Better Sleep: Deeper sleep and better rest.
CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin are generally well-tolerated, with a relatively low rate of CJC-1295/Ipamorelin side effects. The most frequent side effect is an injection site reaction, which may include skin complaints or mild pain.
Other common side effects may include:
Difficulty Swallowing: Some individuals may experience difficulty in swallowing after taking the peptides.
Drowsiness: A feeling of being more tired or sleepy than usual may occur.
Nausea: This can include an unsettled feeling in the stomach or a sensation of wanting to vomit.
Hives or Different Skin Reactions: This might manifest as red, itchy welts on the skin or other unusual skin responses.
Dizziness: This could involve feeling lightheaded or losing balance momentarily.
Flushing refers to a temporary skin reddening, often on the face.
Headache: Some users report experiencing headaches or head pains.
Flu-like Symptoms: These can include fever, chills, muscle aches, and other symptoms commonly associated with the flu.
Hyperactivity: This may manifest as an unusually high level of activity or restlessness.
Sensitivity, Itching, Pain, or Soreness at the Injection Site: This is the most common side effect, usually involving mild discomfort or skin reactions at the injection site.
It should be noted that the benefits and side effects of CJC 1295+ Ipamorelin is not well-researched or tested in controlled clinical trials in humans.
References
1. Health Benefits of Collagen: Pros and Cons, Nutrition, and More (webmd.com)
2. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity | NEJM