Peptide therapy typically involves the use of bioidentical peptides - short chains of amino acids that occur naturally in the body - to promote health and wellbeing. Though some peptide supplements are available over-the-counter, certain peptides are considered prescription medications and require a prescription from a licensed medical provider. When determining if a prescription is needed for peptide therapy, several key factors should be considered: Peptide type - Over-the-counter peptides like collagen peptides and some antioxidant peptides do not require a prescription - Prescription peptides like BPC-157, CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, Sermorelin, and Thymosin Beta 4 (TB-500) are not approved by the FDA and require a prescription Intended use - Cosmetic and wellness goals usually only require OTC peptides - Medical treatment goals require prescription peptides ordered by a physician Dosing and administration - Injectable routes of administration and higher doses involve more risk and require prescriptions - OTC oral peptides have regulated dosing that is considered safe without prescriptions Legal status - The legal status of some prescription peptides is unregulated or restricted depending on the country/state, which affects accessibility So in summary - medical grade peptides used therapeutically will require a prescription, while cosmetic peptides and supplements may not have this requirement.
