FDA advisory panel votes to ease peptide restrictions

The FDA’s Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee voted by a narrow margin to recommend easing restrictions on four popular peptides. 

The panel supported allowing compounding pharmacies to make BPC-157, KPV, TB-500 and MOTS-c, but the decision does not mean the products are FDA-approved. The agency will make the final decision after reviewing the recommendation.

Peptides have surged in popularity in the wellness industry, with proponents touting benefits from better sleep to anti-aging.

During Thursday’s meeting, FDA scientists said there is not enough reliable evidence to prove the peptides are safe or effective. They also explained that some peptides do not have a clear chemical definition, making them difficult to evaluate. 

Supporters argued that allowing licensed pharmacies to produce the compounds would give people a safer alternative to buying unregulated products online.

Experts warned that approving wider access to peptides without strong scientific evidence could confuse the public and create unnecessary health risks.