Sourcing Safe Peptide Therapies

Today we’re diving into how to source peptides safely.  We’ll talk about why where you live matters, how to find a reputable provider, and the red flags to watch out for. So if you’ve been curious about peptides but unsure where to start, this podcast is for you. 

Why Peptides? And Why You Need to Be Cautious

So first, what are peptides? In short, they're short chains of amino acids—basically, the building blocks of proteins—that signal your body to perform specific actions. Some stimulate growth hormone, others help with weight loss, repair tissue, or improve cognition.

Sounds amazing, right? And they can be. But, only when used safely and under the guidance of a qualified provider. Peptides aren’t regulated the way pharmaceuticals are, so it’s incredibly easy to run into unlicensed sources, impure peptides, or outright scams.

Why Where You Live Matters

Let’s talk geography for a minute. Depending on where you live—whether that’s in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, or Europe and other parts of the world—the legal status and availability of peptides vary widely.

In the U.S., many peptides are still considered “research chemicals,” meaning they can be sold online but not legally for human use unless prescribed by a licensed provider working with a compounding pharmacy regulated by the FDA.

In Canada, peptides are more restricted, and access may require going through clinical trials or specific wellness clinics.

Interestingly, in parts of Europe, peptides like BPC-157 have been in clinical use since the 1990s, as it was originally developed and researched in Croatia.

So what’s the takeaway? The laws in your region affect what’s legal, what’s safe, and what kind of provider you should be working with. That’s why it’s important to find someone who not only understands peptide therapy but also works within your country’s regulatory framework.

How to Find a Reputable Peptide Therapy Provider

So now you're wondering: Okay, then who DO I trust? Great question. Let’s go over some things you should look for when wanting to start a particular peptide therapy.

Credentials
Your provider should be a licensed clinician—an MD, DO, PharmD, PA, or NP—with specific training in peptide therapy, functional, or regenerative medicine. Bonus points if they’re certified by organizations like SSRP (Seeds Scientific Research & Performance), the A4M (American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine), or IFM  (Institute for Functional Medicine).

Provider Works with Licensed Compounding Pharmacies or Peptide Manufacturers
Avoid providers who suggest buying your peptides online or mixing them at home.

Thorough Evaluation Process Prior to Treatment
The first and most critical step in a full medical workup is gathering a comprehensive medical history. This includes a detailed review of your personal health background—such as any chronic conditions, previous illnesses, surgeries, or hospitalizations—as well as your current medications and supplements. Your provider will also explore your family medical history to identify any contraindications to peptide therapy.

Laboratory testing may be obtained if clinically indicated depending on the particular peptide therapy and based on your symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals.

Another key component of a full medical workup is the functional assessment, which goes beyond lab numbers to evaluate how your body is actually performing day to day. 

This includes an in-depth discussion of your sleep quality, energy levels, cognitive function, mood, libido, and overall sense of well-being. Your provider may also ask about your ability to recover from exercise, your stress resilience, and whether you're experiencing symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, or low motivation. For those seeking peptide therapy for performance or longevity, this assessment helps establis