What Peptides Should I Take?
An Evidence-Informed Guide to Choosing the Right Stack for Your Goals
Peptides are emerging as one of the most intriguing tools in wellness and optimization. But with dozens of compounds floating around online—often with conflicting claims—figuring out which ones are actually worth exploring (and safe to use) can be confusing.
This guide breaks down what peptides may support based on current human data, clinical use cases, and known biological mechanisms—so you can make informed decisions about what fits your goals.
What Are Peptides?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids—basically, the mini building blocks of proteins. But their real magic lies in cell signaling.
Many peptides mimic naturally occurring compounds in your body and are involved in:
- Energy production
- Metabolism
- Hormonal signaling
- Tissue repair
- Neurological balance
When administered correctly (usually via subcutaneous injection or orally), certain peptides can support these internal processes—helping your body do what it’s already wired to do. There are a few that are currently approved by the FDA for prescription: Semaglutide, Tirezepatide, Sermorelin. Any other peptide is currently classified as a research chemical.
How Peptides Work: Signals, Not Substitutes
Unlike substances that add or replace hormones (like testosterone), peptides don’t override your system. Instead, they nudge your existing biological feedback loops.
For example:
- Kisspeptin may support reproductive hormone signaling—but your body will naturally downregulate the signal when levels rise.
- CJC-1295 doesn’t inject growth hormone; it encourages your body to release its own, in physiologic pulses.
That built-in feedback regulation is why peptides are often described as supportive tools—not blunt-force hacks. That said, professional oversight and correct dosing are critical.
Match Your Goals to the Right Peptide Categories
For Weight Management & Appetite Control
- Semaglutide: A GLP-1 receptor agonist that may support satiety signaling and glucose regulation (common brand names include Ozempic and Wegovy)
- Tirzepatide: Targets GLP-1 and GIP receptors, supporting insulin sensitivity and appetite control (common brand names include Mounjaro and ZepBound)
- Retatrutide: Adds a third target—glucagon receptor. Often used for body recomposition, not drastic weight loss. May help with shedding the final few stubborn pounds while preserving lean mass (no current brand names, still unapproved by the FDA)
These peptides are being studied in humans, particularly in obesity, diabetes, and metabolic optimization contexts. All should be used under clinical supervision.
For Muscle Growth & Metabolic Optimization
- CJC-1295: A GHRH analog that may help support pulsatile release of growth hormone.
- Ipamorelin: A GHRP with low impact on cortisol/prolactin.
- Tesamorelin: FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy; studied for its ability to reduce visceral fat in humans.
- Sermorelin: Older but still-used GHRH analog in longevity and recovery settings.
These peptides do not build muscle on their own—but may support lean mass retention, fat metabolism, and recovery when combined with proper nutrition and training.
For Injury Recovery & Tissue Support
- BPC-157: Shown in preclinical and some human studies to support tissue regeneration, angiogenesis, and inflammation modulation.
- TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4): Studied for anti-fibrotic, angiogenic, and cell migration properties. Early phase trials in humans suggest a role in dermal and soft tissue healing.
- GHK-Cu: A copper-binding peptide involved in collagen remodeling, skin regeneration, and hair growth. Topical and injectable use under investigation.
At Nuri, BPC-157 and TB-500 are cold-packed and third-party tested to ensure potency and sterility.
For Cognitive Function & Mental Resilience
- Semax: Studied in Russia for its nootropic effects; may support focus, mood regulation, and neuroprotection.
- Selank: Often paired with Semax. May help modulate GABA activity and promote calm/focus.
Human trials are limited but suggest a potential role in supporting neurotransmitter balance under stress.
For Sexual Health & Libido
- PT-141 (Bremelanotide): FDA-approved for female sexual arousal disorder; studied in both sexes for desire/arousal effects.
- Kisspeptin: May stimulate luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) via GnRH signaling.
- MT-2: Originally developed for tanning; anecdotal reports and some data suggest libido-enhancing effects via melanocortin receptors.
These peptides are hormone-modulating, not hormone-replacing—one reason clinician guidance is critical.
For Energy, Recovery & Sleep Optimization
- NAD+: Central to mitochondrial energy production. May support fatigue resilience and cellular repair.
- DSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide): Experimental. Some use it to support deep sleep and circadian rhythm.
These peptides are under early-stage exploration. While promising, data is limited and should be approached with caution.
What to Look for When Buying Peptides
Not all peptides are created equal. If you’re shopping online, ask:
- Is it compounded in a licensed U.S. pharmacy?
- Has it been third-party tested for sterility, identity, and endotoxins (LPS)?
- Is it shipped cold to protect potency?
- Will you get dosing guidance and clinician oversight?
If any answer is “no,” think twice.
Nuri Offers Peptide Programs—And We're Growing
At Nuri, we believe peptide access should be safe, transparent, and science-guided. That’s why all of our protocols are:
- Part of IRB-approved clinical research
- Clinician-reviewed before shipping
- Cold-packed and tested for purity and endotoxins
- Supported with education, tools, and real medical oversight
We currently offer programs focused on injury recovery, metabolic health, libido, mental focus, and more. And we’re actively expanding to support new goals.
Explore our current protocols on our site: www.nuriclinic.com