Peptide library

Bones & muscles. Also called Tymlos, Eladynos, BA058.

A synthetic 34-amino-acid peptide modelled on the first 34 residues of parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP), with several substitutions. It activates the parathyroid hormone type 1 receptor (PTH1R) on bone-forming cells and in the kidney.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Bone health

Body system

Bones & muscles

Class

PTH1 receptor agonist (PTHrP analogue)

US prescription medicine since 2017, sold as Tymlos; marketed in the EU as Eladynos since 2022.

Skin. Also called Argireline, Acetyl hexapeptide-3.

A synthetic six-amino-acid peptide (Ac-Glu-Glu-Met-Gln-Arg-Arg-NH2) modelled on the starting segment of SNAP-25, a nerve-cell protein. In laboratory tests it competes with SNAP-25 for a place in the SNARE complex, the protein machinery that releases neurotransmitters from vesicles.

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

SNARE-targeting cosmetic peptide

Cosmetic ingredient (INCI name), sold under the trade name Argireline; formerly listed as acetyl hexapeptide-3. Not a medicine.

Skin. Also called SNAP-8, Acetyl glutamyl heptapeptide-3.

A synthetic eight-amino-acid peptide with an acetyl cap, modelled on the start of SNAP-25, a protein nerve endings use to release neurotransmitters. It is designed to compete with SNAP-25 for a place in the SNARE complex, which drives that release.

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

SNARE-targeting cosmetic peptide

Cosmetic ingredient, not a medicine. Its current INCI name is acetyl glutamyl heptapeptide-3.

Skin. Also called Eyeseryl.

A synthetic four-amino-acid peptide (acetyl-beta-alanyl-histidyl-seryl-histidine). Its maker's laboratory studies report that it inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and slows glycation, the sugar-driven cross-linking of proteins such as collagen.

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

Cosmetic enzyme-inhibiting peptide

Cosmetic ingredient (INCI name), traded as Eyeseryl; not a medicine.

Heart & blood. Also called Giapreza, LJPC-501.

A synthetic copy of human angiotensin II, an eight-amino-acid hormone of the renin-angiotensin system. It binds angiotensin type 1 (AT1) receptors, which make the muscle cells of blood-vessel walls contract and prompt the adrenal glands to release aldosterone.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Critical care

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

Vasopressor peptide hormone

Prescription medicine in the US since 2017 and the EU since 2019, sold as Giapreza.

Digestive system. Also called FE 203799.

A synthetic, long-acting analogue of glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2), a 33-amino-acid hormone released by the gut, with substitutions that slow its clearance. It activates the GLP-2 receptor, found mainly in the intestine.

Status

In clinical trials

Evidence so far

Late-stage human trials

Clinical area

Gastroenterology

Body system

Digestive system

Class

GLP-2 receptor agonist

Investigational; in phase 3 development. Not marketed anywhere.

Immune system. Also called RLF-100, Zyesami.

Synthetic vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), identical to the 28-amino-acid neuropeptide found in the gut, lungs and nervous system. It binds VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors, which raise cyclic AMP levels inside cells.

Status

In clinical trials

Evidence so far

Late-stage human trials

Clinical area

Critical care

Body system

Immune system

Class

Synthetic vasoactive intestinal peptide

Investigational, developed as Zyesami (RLF-100); not marketed as a single-agent medicine in the US, UK or EU.

Skin. Also called Bacitracin A, Bacitracin zinc.

A family of closely related ring-shaped polypeptides produced by Bacillus bacteria, mainly the 12-residue bacitracin A. Bound to a metal ion, it grips the lipid carrier bacteria use to ferry cell-wall building blocks, blocking that carrier's reuse.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Infectious disease

Body system

Skin

Class

Polypeptide antibiotic

Antibiotic in use since 1948; sold over the counter in the US, usually alongside other antibiotics in combination products.

Heart & blood. Also called POL6326.

A synthetic cyclic peptide locked into a hairpin shape, made with a design approach that copies the folded surface of a protein. It blocks CXCR4, the receptor for the signalling protein CXCL12, which directs where cells migrate and settle.

Status

In clinical trials

Evidence so far

Late-stage human trials

Clinical area

Oncology

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

CXCR4 receptor antagonist

Investigational; development stopped after its phase 3 trial (FORTRESS) did not meet its goals. Not marketed anywhere.

Heart & blood. Also called Angiomax, Angiox.

A synthetic 20-amino-acid peptide modelled on hirudin, the anticoagulant protein in leech saliva. It binds directly and reversibly to thrombin, the clotting enzyme that turns fibrinogen into fibrin, at both its active site and a second docking site.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Cardiology

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

Direct thrombin inhibitor

Hospital prescription medicine since 2000 in the US (Angiomax) and 2004 in the EU and UK (Angiox); generic versions exist.

Digestive system. Also called PL 14736, Bepecin.

A synthetic 15-amino-acid peptide whose sequence is taken from part of a larger protein isolated from gastric juice. Animal and cell studies link it to nitric oxide and VEGF receptor signalling, but no specific receptor target has been identified.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Small human studies only

Body system

Digestive system

Class

Synthetic gastric-derived pentadecapeptide

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US. On the WADA Prohibited List (S0).

View BPC-157 10mg Pen

Brain & nerves. Also called PT-141, Vyleesi.

A cyclic seven-amino-acid peptide derived from alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). It activates several melanocortin receptors; its actions in the brain are attributed mainly to the MC4 receptor.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Women's health

Body system

Brain & nerves

Class

Melanocortin receptor agonist

US prescription medicine since 2019, sold as Vyleesi. Products sold online under the name PT-141 are not that medicine.

Digestive system. Also called PMX-30063.

Not a true peptide: a synthetic small molecule (an arylamide) shaped to copy the size, charge and water-repelling pattern of defensins, the body's own antimicrobial proteins. It disrupts bacterial membranes, and laboratory work reports that it also inhibits the immune-signalling enzyme PDE4.

Status

In clinical trials

Evidence so far

Early human trials

Clinical area

Infectious disease

Body system

Digestive system

Class

Defensin-mimetic small molecule

Investigational; studied in phase 2 trials only. Not marketed anywhere.

Bones & muscles. Also called Salmon calcitonin, Miacalcin, Miacalcic.

A 32-amino-acid peptide hormone with the same sequence as the calcitonin made by salmon, closed into a ring at one end by a disulfide bond. It activates the calcitonin receptor on osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Bone health

Body system

Bones & muscles

Class

Calcitonin receptor agonist

Prescription medicine since the 1970s (Miacalcin in the US, Miacalcic in Europe). EU regulators restricted it to short-term use in 2012.

Skin. Also called L-carnosine, Beta-alanyl-L-histidine.

A naturally occurring dipeptide of beta-alanine and histidine, made in muscle and brain tissue. In laboratory studies it neutralises reactive oxygen species, binds metal ions such as copper and zinc, and reacts with sugar-derived carbonyl compounds (anti-glycation activity).

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

Antioxidant dipeptide

Cosmetic ingredient, also sold as a food supplement; not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US.

Brain & nerves. Also called FPF-1070.

Not a single molecule but a preparation of short peptides and free amino acids, made by enzymatically digesting purified pig brain proteins. Laboratory studies report that some fragments mimic signalling by neurotrophic factors such as BDNF and CNTF.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Neurology

Body system

Brain & nerves

Class

Porcine brain peptide preparation

Prescription medicine in a number of countries in Europe and Asia; not authorised as a medicine in the UK or US.

Reproductive system. Also called Cetrotide.

A synthetic ten-amino-acid analogue of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) containing five D-amino acids and other unnatural building blocks. It blocks GnRH receptors in the pituitary gland, so the gland promptly releases less luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Fertility

Body system

Reproductive system

Class

GnRH receptor antagonist

Prescription medicine in the UK and EU since 1999 and the US since 2000, sold as Cetrotide.

Immune system. Also called Cyclosporine, Cyclosporin A, Sandimmune, Neoral, Restasis.

A ring of 11 amino acids made by the soil fungus Tolypocladium inflatum, including several unusual and N-methylated residues. Inside immune T cells it binds the protein cyclophilin, and together they block calcineurin, an enzyme needed to switch on the interleukin-2 gene.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Immunology

Body system

Immune system

Class

Calcineurin inhibitor (cyclic peptide)

Prescription medicine since 1983 (Sandimmune, Neoral and generics); known in the US as cyclosporine.

Hormones & glands. Also called CJC-1295 DAC, Modified GRF (1-29), Mod GRF 1-29.

A synthetic analogue of the first 29 amino acids of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), with four substitutions that slow its breakdown. The DAC form adds a linker that binds blood albumin; both forms activate pituitary GHRH receptors.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Early human trials

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

GHRH analogue

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US; company development stopped in the 2000s. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Hormones & glands. Also called ACTH, Adrenocorticotropic hormone, Acthar Gel, Purified Cortrophin Gel.

A 39-amino-acid hormone made by the pituitary gland, cut from a larger precursor called pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC). It activates the melanocortin 2 receptor in the adrenal cortex, which triggers cortisol release; medicinal gels use purified pig ACTH.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Pituitary peptide hormone (MC2R agonist)

US prescription medicine since 1952, sold as Acthar Gel; Purified Cortrophin Gel is also marketed. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Hormones & glands. Also called Tetracosactide, Cortrosyn, Synacthen.

A synthetic 24-amino-acid peptide identical to the first 24 residues of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), the segment that carries its activity. It binds the melanocortin 2 receptor on cells of the adrenal cortex, signalling them to make cortisol.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

ACTH analogue (MC2R agonist)

Prescription diagnostic agent: Cortrosyn in the US; tetracosactide (Synacthen) in the UK and Europe. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Skin. Also called Dalvance, Xydalba, Orbactiv, Kimyrsa, Tenkasi, Vibativ.

Three semi-synthetic antibiotics built from glycopeptide scaffolds, each carrying an added fatty (lipophilic) side chain. They bind the D-Ala-D-Ala end of bacterial cell-wall building blocks, blocking wall assembly; oritavancin and telavancin also disrupt the bacterial membrane.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Infectious disease

Body system

Skin

Class

Lipoglycopeptide antibiotics

US prescription medicines: telavancin since 2009 (Vibativ); dalbavancin (Dalvance) and oritavancin (Orbactiv, Kimyrsa) since 2014. Dalbavancin is sold as Xydalba in the UK and EU.

Skin. Also called Cubicin, LY146032.

A lipopeptide antibiotic of 13 amino acids, most of them closed into a ring, with a fatty-acid tail, produced by the soil bacterium Streptomyces roseosporus. With calcium bound, it inserts into Gram-positive bacterial membranes and collapses their electrical charge.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Infectious disease

Body system

Skin

Class

Cyclic lipopeptide antibiotic

US prescription medicine since 2003 (Cubicin and generic versions); prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK.

Brain & nerves. Also called NAP, AL-108, AL-208.

An eight-amino-acid peptide (Asn-Ala-Pro-Val-Ser-Ile-Pro-Gln, known as NAP) taken from ADNP, a protein expressed in the brain. It interacts with microtubules, the protein tubes of a cell's internal skeleton, by binding the microtubule end-binding proteins EB1 and EB3.

Status

In clinical trials

Evidence so far

Late-stage human trials

Clinical area

Neurology

Body system

Brain & nerves

Class

Microtubule-interacting ADNP fragment

Investigational; a pivotal phase 2/3 trial ended in 2012 without meeting its goals. Not marketed anywhere.

Reproductive system. Also called Firmagon, FE 200486.

A synthetic 10-amino-acid analogue of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) built with several unnatural amino acids. It blocks GnRH receptors in the pituitary gland, preventing the signal that triggers release of LH and FSH, the hormones that drive gonadal sex hormone production.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Oncology

Body system

Reproductive system

Class

GnRH receptor antagonist

Prescription medicine since 2008 in the US and 2009 in the EU and UK, sold as Firmagon.

Heart & blood. Also called Iprivask, Revasc.

A recombinant form of hirudin (65 amino acids), the clotting inhibitor found in medicinal leeches, produced in yeast. It binds thrombin, the enzyme that turns fibrinogen into fibrin, and blocks it directly without needing a cofactor such as antithrombin.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Haematology

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

Direct thrombin inhibitor

US prescription medicine from 2003 (Iprivask), since discontinued there; it was also marketed in Europe as Revasc.

Heart & blood. Also called DDAVP, Minirin, Nocdurna, Noctiva.

A synthetic nine-amino-acid analogue of the hormone vasopressin, altered at two positions to slow its breakdown and narrow its receptor targets. It activates vasopressin V2 receptors in the kidney, which signal cells to insert aquaporin-2 water channels into their membranes.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

Vasopressin V2 receptor agonist

Prescription medicine since the 1970s (DDAVP, Minirin and other brands); prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK. On the WADA Prohibited List (S5).

Skin. Also called Korsuva, Kapruvia, CR845.

A synthetic peptide of four D-amino acids (D-Phe-D-Phe-D-Leu-D-Lys) ending in a ring-shaped, non-standard amino acid. It activates kappa-opioid receptors; being highly water-soluble, it barely enters the brain, so it acts mainly on nerve and immune cells elsewhere.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Nephrology

Body system

Skin

Class

Peripheral kappa-opioid receptor agonist

Prescription medicine in the US since 2021 (Korsuva) and in the EU and UK since 2022 (Kapruvia).

Brain & nerves. Also called PNB-0408.

A small modified peptide derived from angiotensin IV: two amino acids, tyrosine and isoleucine, capped at each end with a six-carbon chain. Lab studies propose it binds hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and increases HGF's activation of its receptor, c-Met.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Animal and lab studies

Body system

Brain & nerves

Class

Angiotensin IV-derived peptidomimetic

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US; studied only in laboratory and animal work.

Skin. Also called SYN-AKE.

A small synthetic peptide-like molecule (beta-alanyl-prolyl-diaminobutyric acid benzylamide) modelled on waglerin-1, a peptide from temple viper venom. Laboratory studies show it reversibly blocks the muscle-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptor.

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

Acetylcholine receptor-blocking cosmetic peptide

Cosmetic ingredient (INCI name), traded as SYN-AKE; not a medicine.

Brain & nerves. Also called Delta sleep-inducing peptide, Emideltide.

A nine-amino-acid peptide (Trp-Ala-Gly-Gly-Asp-Ala-Ser-Gly-Glu) first isolated in 1977 from blood draining the brains of rabbits. No dedicated receptor or encoding gene has been identified, so its molecular target remains unknown.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Small human studies only

Body system

Brain & nerves

Class

Neuropeptide, receptor unidentified

Studied in small human trials in the 1980s; not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US.

Skin. Also called Kalbitor, DX-88.

A 60-amino-acid recombinant protein made in yeast, based on a Kunitz domain (a small enzyme-blocking module) from human tissue factor pathway inhibitor. It inhibits plasma kallikrein, the enzyme that cuts bradykinin out of its parent protein, kininogen.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Immunology

Body system

Skin

Class

Plasma kallikrein inhibitor

US prescription medicine since 2009, sold as Kalbitor.

Heart & blood. Also called Caspofungin, Micafungin, Anidulafungin, Rezafungin, Cancidas, Mycamine, Eraxis, Ecalta, Rezzayo.

A family of semi-synthetic antifungals, each a ring of six amino acids carrying a fatty side chain, made by modifying fungal fermentation products. They block beta-1,3-glucan synthase, the enzyme fungi use to build a key cell-wall sugar polymer.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Infectious disease

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

Cyclic lipopeptide antifungals

US prescription medicines: caspofungin since 2001, micafungin 2005, anidulafungin 2006, rezafungin 2023. The first three are also marketed in the UK and EU.

Hormones & glands. Also called SS-31, MTP-131, Bendavia, Forzinity.

A synthetic four-amino-acid peptide (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2; Dmt is a modified tyrosine) with alternating aromatic and positively charged residues. It gathers in the inner mitochondrial membrane and binds cardiolipin, a phospholipid found there.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Rare disease

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Cardiolipin-binding mitochondrial tetrapeptide

US prescription medicine since September 2025 (Forzinity) via the FDA accelerated pathway; a confirmatory trial is required. Other uses are investigational.

Immune system. Also called Fuzeon, T-20, DP-178.

A synthetic 36-amino-acid peptide copying a stretch of gp41, the viral envelope protein that drives membrane fusion. It binds an exposed region of gp41 and blocks the folding step the virus needs to fuse with a host cell.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Infectious disease

Body system

Immune system

Class

HIV-1 fusion inhibitor

Prescription medicine in the US and EU from 2003, sold as Fuzeon.

Heart & blood. Also called MK-0616, Lipfendra.

A synthetic ring-shaped (macrocyclic) peptide containing several unnatural amino acids, engineered to survive protein-cutting enzymes. It binds PCSK9, a protein that tags LDL receptors on liver cells for destruction, and stops it attaching to them.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Cardiology

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

Macrocyclic PCSK9 inhibitor

US prescription medicine since July 2026, sold as Lipfendra.

Brain & nerves. Also called Epithalon, AEDG, Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly.

A synthetic four-amino-acid peptide (alanine-glutamate-aspartate-glycine) based on the amino-acid make-up of epithalamin, an extract of cattle pineal gland. Cell studies, mostly from one Russian research group, report that it changes telomerase activity and gene expression.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Small human studies only

Body system

Brain & nerves

Class

Synthetic pineal tetrapeptide

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US.

Heart & blood. Also called Integrilin.

A cyclic seven-residue peptide modelled on a sequence in barbourin, a protein from pygmy rattlesnake venom. It binds the platelet receptor glycoprotein IIb/IIIa reversibly and blocks fibrinogen from attaching, the step that links platelets together.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Cardiology

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor antagonist

US prescription medicine since 1998, sold as Integrilin and as generics; also marketed in Europe.

Bones & muscles. Also called Parsabiv, AMG 416.

A synthetic peptide of seven D-amino acids, the mirror-image forms that resist breakdown, linked to an L-cysteine by a disulfide bridge. It activates the calcium-sensing receptor on parathyroid cells, which suppresses parathyroid hormone release.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Nephrology

Body system

Bones & muscles

Class

Calcium-sensing receptor activator (calcimimetic)

Prescription medicine in the EU since 2016 and the US since 2017, sold as Parsabiv.

Bones & muscles. Also called FST-344, FS344.

A form of follistatin, a natural glycoprotein; 344 is the length in amino acids of its precursor, which loses a short signal sequence to leave 315. It binds activin and myostatin, members of the TGF-beta signalling family, and keeps them from activating their receptors.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Animal and lab studies

Body system

Bones & muscles

Class

Activin- and myostatin-binding glycoprotein

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US. On the WADA Prohibited List (S4).

Digestive system. Also called Gallium Ga 68 dotatate, 68Ga-DOTATATE, NETSPOT.

A radioactive tracer made of octreotate, an eight-amino-acid ring-shaped analogue of the hormone somatostatin, linked to a DOTA cage that holds gallium-68. It binds somatostatin receptors, chiefly subtype 2, so cells carrying them show on PET scans.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Diagnostic imaging

Body system

Digestive system

Class

Somatostatin receptor imaging agent

US prescription imaging agent since 2016, supplied as the NETSPOT preparation kit.

Reproductive system. Also called Orgalutran, Antagon, Fyremadel.

A synthetic ten-amino-acid analogue of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) containing several unnatural amino acids. It competitively blocks GnRH receptors in the pituitary gland, quickly halting release of the gonadotrophins LH and FSH.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Fertility

Body system

Reproductive system

Class

GnRH receptor antagonist

US prescription medicine since 1999 (first as Antagon); sold as Orgalutran in the UK and EU, and as Fyremadel and generics.

Skin. Also called Copper tripeptide-1, Copper peptide GHK, Prezatide copper.

A three-amino-acid peptide (glycine–histidine–lysine) bound to a copper ion; GHK occurs naturally in human blood plasma. In cell studies the copper complex shifts the activity of genes for connective-tissue proteins and the enzymes that remodel them.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

Copper-binding tripeptide

Used as a cosmetic ingredient under the INCI name Copper Tripeptide-1; not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US.

View GHK-Cu 100mg Pen

Hormones & glands. Also called Pralmorelin, KP-102.

A synthetic six-amino-acid peptide (D-Ala-D-2Nal-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2) that includes three D-amino acids. It activates the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) in the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, triggering release of growth hormone.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Ghrelin receptor agonist

Sold in Japan as a diagnostic agent (pralmorelin); not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Hormones & glands. Also called Growth hormone-releasing peptide-6.

A synthetic six-amino-acid peptide (His-D-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys), first described in 1984, containing two mirror-image D-amino acids. It activates the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) in the pituitary and hypothalamus, triggering growth hormone release.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Small human studies only

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Ghrelin receptor agonist

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Digestive system. Also called ZP1848.

A synthetic analogue of glucagon-like peptide-2 (GLP-2), a 33-amino-acid gut hormone, with nine amino-acid substitutions and an added six-lysine tail that makes it long-acting. It activates the GLP-2 receptor in the intestine.

Status

In clinical trials

Evidence so far

Late-stage human trials

Clinical area

Gastroenterology

Body system

Digestive system

Class

GLP-2 receptor agonist

Investigational; following phase 3 trials, US regulators sent a complete response letter (2024) asking for more data. Not marketed anywhere.

Skin. Also called GSH, L-glutathione, Reduced glutathione.

A three-amino-acid peptide (glutamate, cysteine, glycine) made inside nearly every cell, with glutamate linked through its side chain rather than the usual backbone bond. Enzymes such as glutathione peroxidases use its cysteine thiol group to neutralise reactive oxygen molecules.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Small human studies only

Body system

Skin

Class

Endogenous thiol tripeptide

Widely sold in food supplements; not authorised as a medicine in the UK or US.

Reproductive system. Also called GnRH, LHRH, Factrel, Lutrepulse, Lutrelef.

A synthetic copy of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH), the ten-amino-acid hormone made in the hypothalamus. It activates GnRH receptors on pituitary cells, triggering release of luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Reproductive system

Class

GnRH receptor agonist (native GnRH)

Prescription medicine in some countries; former US brands Factrel and Lutrepulse are discontinued. Compounded versions are not authorised medicines. WADA Prohibited List (S2, males only).

Reproductive system. Also called Zoladex.

A synthetic ten-amino-acid analogue of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH), with two altered residues that slow its breakdown. Continuous activation of pituitary GnRH receptors first stimulates and then desensitises them, shutting down LH and FSH release and, in turn, gonadal sex-hormone production.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Oncology

Body system

Reproductive system

Class

GnRH receptor agonist

Prescription medicine in the UK, EU and US, sold as Zoladex; US marketing since 1989. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2, males).

Skin. Also called Collaxyl.

A synthetic six-amino-acid peptide, glycine-proline-glutamine repeated twice, copying a short motif found in collagen. Supplier laboratory data describe it as a signal to fibroblasts, the skin cells that produce collagen and other structural matrix proteins.

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

Collagen-derived cosmetic signal peptide

Cosmetic ingredient listed under its INCI name; not a medicine.

Hormones & glands. Also called Examorelin.

A synthetic six-amino-acid peptide (His-D-2-methyl-Trp-Ala-Trp-D-Phe-Lys-NH2) developed from the earlier peptide GHRP-6. It activates the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a), prompting pituitary release of growth hormone, and also binds the scavenger receptor CD36.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Small human studies only

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Ghrelin receptor agonist (GHRP)

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Reproductive system. Also called Supprelin LA, Vantas.

A synthetic nine-amino-acid analogue of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH), modified to resist breakdown. Continuous activation of pituitary GnRH receptors desensitises them, shutting down release of LH and FSH and, in turn, of gonadal sex hormones.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Reproductive system

Class

GnRH receptor agonist

US prescription medicine since the early 1990s, now sold as Supprelin LA; the Vantas product was discontinued. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2, males).

Reproductive system. Also called hCG, Human chorionic gonadotrophin, Choriogonadotropin alfa, Ovitrelle, Ovidrel, Pregnyl.

A glycoprotein hormone made by the placenta, built from two chains: an alpha chain shared with LH, FSH and TSH, and a beta chain unique to hCG. It binds the LH/hCG receptor on ovarian and testicular cells, the same receptor luteinising hormone uses.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Fertility

Body system

Reproductive system

Class

Glycoprotein gonadotrophin hormone

Prescription medicine in the UK, EU and US, from urine-derived and recombinant sources (brands include Ovitrelle and Pregnyl). On the WADA Prohibited List (S2, males).

Hormones & glands. Also called HN.

A 24-amino-acid peptide encoded within the mitochondrial 16S ribosomal RNA gene. It binds cell-surface receptors, including FPR2 and a gp130-containing complex, and inside cells interacts with proteins such as Bax (a cell-death regulator) and IGFBP-3.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Animal and lab studies

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Mitochondrial-derived peptide

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US; studied in laboratory, animal and observational research.

Skin. Also called Firazyr, HOE 140.

A synthetic ten-amino-acid peptide modelled on bradykinin, with five non-natural amino acids that make it resistant to breakdown. It binds the bradykinin B2 receptor and stops bradykinin, a natural peptide signal, from activating it.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Immunology

Body system

Skin

Class

Bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist

Prescription medicine in the EU since 2008 and the US since 2011, sold as Firazyr and as generics, including in the UK.

Hormones & glands. Also called Des(1-3)IGF-1.

A 67-amino-acid form of insulin-like growth factor 1 lacking its first three amino acids, a variant found naturally in brain tissue and bovine colostrum. The deletion weakens binding to IGF-binding proteins, leaving more of it free to activate the IGF-1 receptor.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Animal and lab studies

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Truncated IGF-1 variant

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Hormones & glands. Also called Long R3 IGF-1, LR3-IGF-1.

An 83-amino-acid engineered form of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), with arginine in place of glutamic acid at position 3 and a 13-amino-acid extension at the front. These changes weaken binding to IGF-binding proteins, leaving it freer to activate the IGF-1 receptor.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Animal and lab studies

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Engineered IGF-1 analogue

Made as a cell-culture reagent; not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Hormones & glands. Also called NNC 26-0161.

A synthetic five-amino-acid peptide described in 1998, built partly from non-standard amino acids such as aminoisobutyric acid. It selectively activates the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) on pituitary cells, triggering growth hormone release.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Early human trials

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Ghrelin receptor agonist

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US. A phase 2 trial missed its main endpoint. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Reproductive system. Also called KP-10, Metastin 45-54.

The final ten amino acids of kisspeptin, a hormone encoded by the KISS1 gene. It activates the kisspeptin receptor (KISS1R, also called GPR54) on hypothalamic neurons, which then release gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH).

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Early human trials

Body system

Reproductive system

Class

Kisspeptin receptor agonist

Investigational only; studied in small human research studies and not authorised as a medicine anywhere.

Digestive system. Also called Lys-Pro-Val, Alpha-MSH (11-13).

A three-amino-acid peptide (lysine–proline–valine) matching the last three residues of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. In laboratory models it enters cells through the PepT1 peptide transporter and inhibits NF-κB, a transcription factor that switches on immune-signalling genes.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Animal and lab studies

Body system

Digestive system

Class

Alpha-MSH C-terminal tripeptide

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US; research so far is laboratory and animal work.

Digestive system. Also called Somatuline Autogel, Somatuline Depot.

A synthetic eight-amino-acid analogue of somatostatin, closed into a ring by a disulfide bridge and containing two D-amino acids that slow its breakdown. It binds somatostatin receptors 2 and 5, which inhibit hormone secretion from pituitary and gut endocrine cells.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Digestive system

Class

Somatostatin analogue

Prescription medicine in the UK and EU (Somatuline Autogel) and in the US since 2007 (Somatuline Depot).

Digestive system. Also called Larazotide, AT-1001, INN-202.

A synthetic eight-amino-acid peptide (Gly-Gly-Val-Leu-Val-Gln-Pro-Gly) derived from zonula occludens toxin, a bacterial protein. It is designed to block zonulin signalling and so keep tight junctions, the seals between cells lining the gut, from opening.

Status

In clinical trials

Evidence so far

Late-stage human trials

Clinical area

Gastroenterology

Body system

Digestive system

Class

Tight-junction regulator (zonulin antagonist)

Investigational; its phase 3 trial was halted for futility in 2022. Not marketed anywhere.

Reproductive system. Also called Leuprorelin, Lupron, Eligard, Prostap, Camcevi.

A synthetic nine-amino-acid analogue of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH), altered with a D-leucine and an ethylamide end so it lasts longer. Constant activation of pituitary GnRH receptors first triggers, then switches off, release of LH and FSH, the signals that drive gonadal sex-hormone production.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Oncology, gynaecology

Body system

Reproductive system

Class

GnRH receptor agonist

US prescription medicine since 1985 (Lupron, Eligard and others); sold in the UK as Prostap. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2, males only).

Digestive system. Also called Linzess, Constella.

A synthetic 14-amino-acid peptide held in shape by three disulfide bridges, modelled on the gut hormones guanylin and uroguanylin. It activates guanylate cyclase-C on intestinal lining cells, raising the messenger molecule cyclic guanosine monophosphate and opening CFTR chloride channels.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Gastroenterology

Body system

Digestive system

Class

Guanylate cyclase-C agonist

Prescription medicine in the US and EU since 2012, sold as Linzess (US) and Constella (Europe, including the UK).

Immune system. Also called Ropocamptide, Cathelicidin LL-37.

A 37-amino-acid peptide, named for its two leading leucines, cut from hCAP18, the single cathelicidin protein humans make. It folds into a helix that inserts into and disrupts microbial membranes, and it binds immune-cell receptors such as FPR2.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Early human trials

Body system

Immune system

Class

Human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US; tested in phase 2 trials under the name ropocamptide.

Skin. Also called Ruxotemitide.

A synthetic nine-amino-acid, positively charged peptide modelled on bovine lactoferricin, a fragment of the milk protein lactoferrin. It punctures cell and mitochondrial membranes, and the dying cells release molecular danger signals that alert the immune system.

Status

In clinical trials

Evidence so far

Early human trials

Clinical area

Oncology

Body system

Skin

Class

Oncolytic membrane-active peptide

Investigational; studied in phase 1 and 2 trials. Not marketed anywhere.

Digestive system. Also called Lutathera, 177Lu-DOTATATE.

Octreotate, an eight-amino-acid somatostatin analogue, joined through a DOTA chelator (a cage-like ring that grips metal) to radioactive lutetium-177. It binds somatostatin receptors, mainly subtype 2, so cells carrying them take up the beta-emitting isotope.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Oncology

Body system

Digestive system

Class

Radiolabelled somatostatin analogue

Prescription radiopharmaceutical sold as Lutathera: EU since 2017, US since 2018; also used in the UK.

Reproductive system. Also called Pluvicto, 177Lu-PSMA-617.

A radiopharmaceutical pairing a small peptide-like molecule that binds prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) with a DOTA cage holding radioactive lutetium-177. Once bound to PSMA on cell surfaces, the isotope emits beta particles that break DNA in nearby cells.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Oncology

Body system

Reproductive system

Class

PSMA-targeted radioligand

Prescription medicine in the US and EU since 2022, sold as Pluvicto.

Hormones & glands. Also called Increlex, rhIGF-1.

Recombinant human IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1), produced in bacteria: a 70-amino-acid chain folded by three disulfide bonds. It activates the IGF-1 receptor, a tyrosine kinase that switches on growth-related signalling inside cells.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Recombinant insulin-like growth factor 1

Prescription medicine in the US since 2005 and the UK and EU since 2007, sold as Increlex. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Bones & muscles. Also called MGF, IGF-1Ec, PEG-MGF.

A splice variant of the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) gene (IGF-1Ec in humans), made by muscle under mechanical strain, with a distinct E-peptide tail. Products sold as MGF are usually a synthetic copy of that tail, whose receptor is unknown.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Animal and lab studies

Body system

Bones & muscles

Class

IGF-1 splice variant peptide

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Hormones & glands. Also called Ibutamoren, L-163,191, LUM-201.

A small synthetic molecule (a spiro-indoline compound first made by Merck), not a peptide, that mimics the hormone ghrelin. It activates the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a) in the hypothalamus and pituitary, which signals growth hormone release.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Early human trials

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Non-peptide ghrelin receptor agonist

Investigational; reached phase 2 trials but not authorised as a medicine anywhere. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Heart & blood. Also called Aphexda, BL-8040, BKT140.

A synthetic cyclic peptide of 14 amino acids, developed from T140, an analogue of horseshoe crab polyphemusin peptides. It blocks the CXCR4 receptor so the chemokine CXCL12 cannot hold blood-forming stem cells in the bone marrow.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Haematology

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

CXCR4 receptor antagonist

US prescription medicine since 2023, sold as Aphexda.

Hormones & glands.

A 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in mitochondrial DNA, within the gene for 12S ribosomal RNA; the name abbreviates 'mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA-c'. In cell and animal studies it activates AMPK, an enzyme that senses a cell's energy levels.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Animal and lab studies

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Mitochondrial-derived peptide

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US.

Read our MOTS-c guideView MOTS-C 10mg Pen

Immune system. Also called POL7080.

A synthetic ring-shaped peptide mimic of 14 amino acids, modelled on protegrin I, an antimicrobial peptide from pig white blood cells. It binds LptD, an outer-membrane protein that the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa needs to move lipopolysaccharide to its surface.

Status

In clinical trials

Evidence so far

Late-stage human trials

Clinical area

Infectious disease

Body system

Immune system

Class

LptD-targeting antibiotic peptidomimetic

Investigational antibiotic; phase 3 trials were halted in 2019. Not marketed anywhere.

Reproductive system. Also called Synarel.

A synthetic ten-amino-acid analogue of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in which the sixth residue is replaced by D-2-naphthylalanine, making it longer-lasting. Sustained activation of pituitary GnRH receptors desensitises them, switching off LH and FSH release.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Gynaecology

Body system

Reproductive system

Class

GnRH receptor agonist

US prescription medicine since 1990, sold as Synarel; also marketed in the UK. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2, males only).

Immune system. Also called LR12.

A synthetic 12-amino-acid peptide copied from TLT-1, a protein related to the immune receptor TREM-1. It works as a decoy, capturing TREM-1's ligand so the receptor cannot amplify signalling in neutrophils and macrophages.

Status

In clinical trials

Evidence so far

Early human trials

Clinical area

Critical care

Body system

Immune system

Class

TREM-1 inhibitor (decoy peptide)

Investigational; its phase 2b trial missed its primary endpoint. Not marketed anywhere.

Heart & blood. Also called Natrecor, rhBNP.

A recombinant copy of BNP (B-type natriuretic peptide), a hormone made by heart muscle: 32 amino acids with a 17-residue disulfide-closed ring. It binds natriuretic peptide receptor A, raising cyclic guanosine monophosphate inside blood-vessel muscle cells so that they relax.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Cardiology

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

Recombinant B-type natriuretic peptide

US prescription medicine from 2001, sold as Natrecor.

Brain & nerves.

A synthetic analogue of cyclic glycine-proline, a ring-shaped two-amino-acid molecule formed naturally from the breakdown of IGF-1. It is thought to adjust how much IGF-1 stays bound to its carrier protein, IGFBP-3, and so its availability to cells.

Status

In clinical trials

Evidence so far

Early human trials

Clinical area

Neurology

Body system

Brain & nerves

Class

Cyclic glycine-proline analogue

Investigational; phase 2 trials have reported. Not marketed anywhere.

Skin. Also called Melanostatine 5.

A synthetic nine-amino-acid peptide modelled on alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH). In laboratory studies it binds the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) on pigment cells, blocking alpha-MSH and the signal for melanin production that follows.

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

Melanocortin-1 receptor antagonist

Cosmetic ingredient (INCI name), traded as Melanostatine 5; not a medicine.

Digestive system. Also called Sandostatin, Sandostatin LAR, Mycapssa, SMS 201-995.

A synthetic ring-shaped peptide of eight amino acids, built from the active core of the 14-residue hormone somatostatin with D-amino acids that resist breakdown. It activates somatostatin receptors SST2 and SST5, damping secretion of growth hormone and of several hormones made in the gut.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Digestive system

Class

Somatostatin analogue

US prescription medicine since 1988 (Sandostatin and other brands); prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK.

Skin. Also called sh-Oligopeptide-1, Recombinant human EGF.

The cosmetic ingredient name for recombinant human epidermal growth factor (EGF), a 53-amino-acid protein held together by three disulfide bonds and usually made in bacteria or yeast. It binds the EGF receptor, a tyrosine kinase that triggers cell-division signalling.

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

Recombinant epidermal growth factor

Cosmetic ingredient, labelled sh-Oligopeptide-1 under INCI naming. Not a medicine in the UK, EU or US.

Reproductive system. Also called Syntocinon, Pitocin.

A nine-amino-acid hormone, ring-closed by a disulfide bond, produced in the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary. It activates the oxytocin receptor on uterine muscle and milk-gland cells; in 1953 it became the first peptide hormone to be synthesised.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Obstetrics

Body system

Reproductive system

Class

Posterior pituitary hormone

Synthetic oxytocin has been a hospital prescription medicine since the 1950s, sold as Syntocinon in the UK and Pitocin in the US.

Skin. Also called Pal-VGVAPG.

The six-amino-acid sequence Val-Gly-Val-Ala-Pro-Gly, a repeating unit of the elastic protein elastin, joined to palmitic acid, a fatty acid. In lab studies this elastin fragment binds the elastin receptor complex on fibroblasts (connective-tissue cells), triggering cell signalling.

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

Cosmetic signal peptide (elastin fragment)

Cosmetic ingredient (INCI name); not a medicine.

Skin. Also called Matrixyl, Pal-KTTKS, Palmitoyl pentapeptide-3.

A five-amino-acid peptide (lysine–threonine–threonine–lysine–serine, or KTTKS) from the type I procollagen molecule, with a palmitic acid chain attached to make it oil-soluble. In fibroblast cultures it acts as a signal that prompts cells to make collagen and fibronectin.

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

Cosmetic signal peptide

Cosmetic ingredient (INCI name), best known as Matrixyl; regulated under cosmetics law, not as a medicine.

Skin. Also called Rigin, Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-3.

A four-amino-acid peptide (glycine-glutamine-proline-arginine) joined to palmitic acid, a fatty acid that makes it more oil-soluble. The sequence is a fragment of immunoglobulin G; in cell-culture studies it lowers release of the signalling protein interleukin-6.

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

Lipidated cosmetic signal peptide

Cosmetic ingredient, sold as Rigin and in the Matrixyl 3000 blend; formerly listed as palmitoyl tetrapeptide-3. Not a medicine.

Skin. Also called Pal-GHK, Palmitoyl oligopeptide.

The three-amino-acid sequence glycine-histidine-lysine (GHK) joined to palmitic acid, a fatty chain that makes it more oil-soluble. GHK occurs within collagen and other matrix proteins; supplier laboratory studies describe it as a signal to fibroblasts that produce matrix proteins.

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

Lipidated cosmetic signal peptide

Cosmetic ingredient, one of the two peptides in the Matrixyl 3000 blend; not a medicine.

Skin. Also called Matrixyl synthe'6, Pal-KMO2K.

A three-amino-acid peptide (lysine, oxidised methionine, lysine) attached to palmitic acid, a fatty acid. Manufacturer cell studies report that it prompts cultured fibroblasts to produce six matrix molecules, including collagen types I, III and IV, fibronectin and hyaluronic acid.

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

Cosmetic signal peptide

Cosmetic ingredient (INCI name), traded as Matrixyl synthe'6; not a medicine.

Bones & muscles. Also called Yorvipath, TransCon PTH.

A prodrug in which PTH(1-34), the active portion of parathyroid hormone, is tethered to a branched polyethylene glycol (PEG) carrier by a self-cleaving linker. The linker slowly frees PTH(1-34), which activates the parathyroid hormone type 1 receptor.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Bones & muscles

Class

Long-acting PTH(1-34) prodrug

Prescription medicine in the EU since 2023 and the US since 2024, sold as Yorvipath.

Bones & muscles. Also called Natpara, Natpar, rhPTH(1-84).

A recombinant copy of full-length human parathyroid hormone, an 84-amino-acid chain produced in bacteria. It activates the PTH1 receptor on bone and kidney cells, a signalling receptor that governs how calcium and phosphate are handled.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Formerly marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Bones & muscles

Class

Recombinant parathyroid hormone (1-84)

Sold as Natpara (US, from 2015) and Natpar (EU, from 2017); its maker stopped production worldwide at the end of 2024.

Hormones & glands. Also called Signifor, Signifor LAR, SOM230.

A synthetic six-amino-acid ring designed to mimic somatostatin, built partly from unnatural amino acids. It binds somatostatin receptor subtypes 1, 2, 3 and 5, most strongly subtype 5, and so inhibits hormone release from pituitary cells.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Somatostatin analogue

Prescription medicine since 2012 in the EU and US, sold as Signifor and, in long-acting form, Signifor LAR.

Heart & blood. Also called Empaveli, Aspaveli, Syfovre, APL-2.

Two copies of a 15-amino-acid cyclic peptide derived from compstatin, joined to a large polyethylene glycol (PEG) chain that slows clearance. It binds complement protein C3 and its fragment C3b, blocking a central step in the complement cascade of the innate immune system.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Haematology, ophthalmology

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

Complement C3 inhibitor (pegylated peptide)

US prescription medicine since 2021 (Empaveli; Syfovre since 2023); sold as Aspaveli in the UK and EU.

Hormones & glands. Also called Somavert.

A modified growth hormone protein of 191 amino acids, carrying nine amino-acid changes and several attached polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains. It occupies the growth hormone receptor without activating it, so the receptor no longer drives IGF-1 production.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Growth hormone receptor antagonist

Prescription medicine in the EU since 2002 and the US since 2003, sold as Somavert.

Skin. Also called Leuphasyl.

A synthetic five-amino-acid peptide (Tyr-D-Ala-Gly-Phe-Leu) modelled on leucine-enkephalin, one of the body's own opioid peptides. In laboratory nerve-cell models it binds enkephalin receptors and dampens release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

Enkephalin-like cosmetic peptide

Cosmetic ingredient (INCI name), sold under the trade name Leuphasyl. Not a medicine.

Digestive system. Also called Trulance, SP-304.

A 16-amino-acid peptide with two disulfide bonds that copies the gut hormone uroguanylin except for one amino acid. It activates guanylate cyclase-C on intestinal lining cells, raising the messenger cyclic guanosine monophosphate and driving chloride and water secretion into the gut.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Gastroenterology

Body system

Digestive system

Class

Guanylate cyclase-C agonist

US prescription medicine since 2017, sold as Trulance; not marketed in the UK or EU.

Digestive system.

A synthetic, chemically stabilised peptide designed to act locally within the intestine. It binds alpha-4 beta-7 integrin, an adhesion protein on certain white blood cells, and blocks it from attaching to MAdCAM-1 on intestinal blood vessels.

Status

In clinical trials

Evidence so far

Early human trials

Clinical area

Gastroenterology

Body system

Digestive system

Class

α4β7 integrin antagonist peptide

Investigational; reached phase 2 trials. Not marketed anywhere.

Immune system. Also called Polymyxin E, Colistimethate sodium, Coly-Mycin M, Colomycin.

Two cyclic lipopeptide antibiotics made by the bacterium Paenibacillus polymyxa that differ by a single amino acid. Their positively charged ring binds lipid A in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, displacing stabilising metal ions and breaking the membrane open.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Infectious disease

Body system

Immune system

Class

Polymyxin lipopeptide antibiotics

Prescription antibiotics in use since the late 1950s; colistin is supplied as its prodrug colistimethate (Coly-Mycin M, Colomycin and others).

Heart & blood. Also called PTG-300, Mimrylo.

A synthetic peptide designed to mimic hepcidin, the 25-amino-acid liver hormone that governs iron movement. It binds ferroportin, the iron-export channel on cell surfaces, causing the channel to be pulled into the cell and broken down.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Haematology

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

Hepcidin mimetic peptide

US prescription medicine since August 2026, sold as Mimrylo.

Hormones & glands. Also called ChiRhoStim, Human secretin.

A 27-amino-acid hormone released by cells lining the upper small intestine; its discovery by Bayliss and Starling in 1902 gave rise to the idea of hormones. It activates the secretin receptor on pancreatic duct cells, which respond by releasing bicarbonate-rich fluid.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Gastroenterology

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

Gastrointestinal peptide hormone

US prescription diagnostic agent since 2004, sold as ChiRhoStim (synthetic human secretin).

Brain & nerves.

A synthetic seven-amino-acid peptide (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-Pro) made by adding a stabilising Pro-Gly-Pro tail to tuftsin, a natural four-amino-acid immune peptide. Its molecular targets are unsettled; lab studies point to GABA-A receptor modulation and inhibition of enkephalin-degrading enzymes.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Psychiatry

Body system

Brain & nerves

Class

Tuftsin-derived synthetic heptapeptide

Registered as a medicine in Russia; not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US.

Heart & blood. Also called FE 202158.

A synthetic nine-amino-acid analogue of vasopressin, re-engineered so that it targets the V1a receptor. V1a receptors on blood-vessel muscle cells trigger contraction, while the analogue largely spares the kidney's V2 receptor.

Status

In clinical trials

Evidence so far

Late-stage human trials

Clinical area

Critical care

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

Selective vasopressin V1a agonist

Investigational; its phase 2b/3 trial was stopped early for futility. Not marketed anywhere.

Brain & nerves.

A synthetic seven-amino-acid peptide (Met-Glu-His-Phe-Pro-Gly-Pro): the 4-7 fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) plus a Pro-Gly-Pro tail that slows its breakdown. It lacks ACTH's adrenal activity; rodent studies link it to raised levels of BDNF, a nerve-cell growth factor.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Neurology

Body system

Brain & nerves

Class

Synthetic ACTH(4-10) analogue

Registered as a medicine in Russia; not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US.

Hormones & glands. Also called GRF 1-29, GHRH (1-29), Geref.

A synthetic copy of the first 29 amino acids of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), a 44-amino-acid hormone from the hypothalamus; this fragment carries the full hormone's activity. It activates GHRH receptors on pituitary cells, which then release growth hormone.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Formerly marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

GHRH analogue

US prescription medicine (Geref) from 1990 until discontinued in 2008; no longer marketed. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Digestive system. Also called Kinevac, CCK-8.

A synthetic copy of the final eight amino acids of cholecystokinin (CCK-8), a gut hormone, including its sulphated tyrosine. It activates CCK1 receptors on gallbladder muscle and pancreatic cells, triggering contraction and digestive-enzyme secretion.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Diagnostic imaging

Body system

Digestive system

Class

Cholecystokinin analogue

US prescription diagnostic agent since 1976, sold as Kinevac and as generic sincalide.

Bones & muscles. Also called Thymosin beta-4 fragment, Ac-LKKTETQ.

A synthetic peptide usually identified as LKKTETQ, the seven-amino-acid stretch at positions 17–23 of thymosin beta-4, a 43-amino-acid protein. This stretch is the motif thymosin beta-4 uses to bind single actin units, the building blocks of the cell's skeleton.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Animal and lab studies

Body system

Bones & muscles

Class

Thymosin beta-4 fragment

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

View TB-500 10mg Pen

Digestive system. Also called Gattex, Revestive.

A 33-amino-acid analogue of GLP-2 (glucagon-like peptide-2), a hormone released by the intestine, produced by recombinant technology. Swapping alanine for glycine at position 2 shields it from the enzyme DPP-4; it activates GLP-2 receptors in the gut wall.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Gastroenterology

Body system

Digestive system

Class

GLP-2 receptor agonist

Prescription medicine since 2012 in the US (Gattex) and in the UK and EU (Revestive).

Bones & muscles. Also called Forteo, Forsteo, PTH(1-34).

A 34-amino-acid peptide identical to the active first section of human parathyroid hormone, PTH(1-34), usually made by recombinant DNA technology. It activates the PTH1 receptor on bone-forming cells (osteoblasts) and in the kidney.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Bone health

Body system

Bones & muscles

Class

Parathyroid hormone analogue

Prescription medicine since 2002 in the US (Forteo) and 2003 in the EU and UK (Forsteo); biosimilar versions also marketed.

Digestive system. Also called Terlivaz, Glypressin, Variquel.

A synthetic 12-amino-acid peptide made of lysine vasopressin with three glycine residues added at its start. Enzymes gradually trim off the glycines, releasing lysine vasopressin, which activates V1 vasopressin receptors on vascular smooth muscle.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Hepatology

Body system

Digestive system

Class

Vasopressin analogue (prodrug)

Prescription medicine in the UK and Europe for decades (e.g. Glypressin); in the US since 2022, sold as Terlivaz.

Hormones & glands. Also called Egrifta, Egrifta SV, TH9507.

A synthetic copy of the 44-amino-acid hormone growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), with a hexenoyl fatty-acid group added to its first amino acid to slow breakdown. It activates GHRH receptors in the pituitary gland, prompting release of growth hormone.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Endocrinology

Body system

Hormones & glands

Class

GHRH analogue

US prescription medicine since 2010, sold as Egrifta and its later formulations. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Immune system. Also called Thymalfasin, Zadaxin, Tα1.

A 28-amino-acid peptide with an acetylated starting end, first isolated from calf thymus extract and naturally cut from the larger protein prothymosin alpha. It acts on immune cells such as dendritic cells, partly through Toll-like receptor signalling.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Immunology

Body system

Immune system

Class

Thymic immune-signalling peptide

Prescription medicine in China and several other countries as thymalfasin (Zadaxin); not authorised as a medicine in the UK or US.

Bones & muscles. Also called Tβ4, TB4.

A 43-amino-acid peptide, acetylated at its starting end, found naturally in most human cells. It binds single actin molecules (G-actin) and holds them in reserve, which controls how quickly the cell's actin filaments can lengthen.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Late-stage human trials

Body system

Bones & muscles

Class

Actin-sequestering peptide

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US; one formulation reached phase 3 trials. On the WADA Prohibited List (S2).

Immune system. Also called Serum thymic factor, FTS.

A nine-amino-acid peptide hormone made by epithelial cells of the thymus, first described as serum thymic factor (FTS). It needs a bound zinc ion to be active and acts on developing T cells; no specific receptor has been identified.

Status

Research compound

Evidence so far

Animal and lab studies

Body system

Immune system

Class

Zinc-dependent thymic hormone

Not authorised as a medicine in the UK, EU or US.

Skin. Also called Decorinyl.

A short synthetic peptide (a three-amino-acid chain joined to citrulline) designed to mimic the collagen-binding region of decorin, a protein that organises collagen fibres. In laboratory work it binds collagen and regulates how evenly the fibrils assemble.

Status

Cosmetic ingredient

Evidence so far

Cosmetic formulation studies

Body system

Skin

Class

Decorin-mimetic cosmetic peptide

Cosmetic ingredient (INCI name), sold under the trade name Decorinyl; regulated under cosmetics law, not as a medicine.

Reproductive system. Also called Decapeptyl, Gonapeptyl, Trelstar, Triptodur.

A synthetic ten-amino-acid GnRH analogue in which D-tryptophan replaces glycine at position 6, slowing its breakdown. Sustained activation of GnRH receptors in the pituitary first triggers a surge, then desensitises them, so LH, FSH and gonadal sex-hormone output fall away.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Oncology

Body system

Reproductive system

Class

GnRH receptor agonist

Prescription medicine in the UK and EU (Decapeptyl) and the US (Trelstar, since 2000). On the WADA Prohibited List (S2, males).

Brain & nerves. Also called Daybue, NNZ-2566.

A synthetic version of glycine-proline-glutamate (GPE), the first three amino acids of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), with an added methyl group that slows its breakdown. Its molecular target is not established; it is thought to act on IGF-1 signalling.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Neurology

Body system

Brain & nerves

Class

IGF-1-derived tripeptide analogue

US prescription medicine since 2023, sold as Daybue.

Heart & blood. Also called Vancocin.

A glycopeptide antibiotic made by the soil bacterium Amycolatopsis orientalis, built from a cross-linked seven-amino-acid core carrying sugars. It binds the D-Ala-D-Ala ends of bacterial cell-wall building blocks, blocking the cross-linking that forms the wall.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Infectious disease

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

Glycopeptide antibiotic

Prescription medicine since 1958 (first sold as Vancocin); widely sold as generics, including in the UK.

Heart & blood. Also called Arginine vasopressin, AVP, Argipressin, Vasostrict, Antidiuretic hormone.

The natural nine-amino-acid hormone arginine vasopressin, made in the hypothalamus and released from the pituitary; the medicine is a synthetic copy. It activates three receptor types: V1a on blood-vessel muscle, V1b in the pituitary and V2 in the kidney.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Critical care

Body system

Heart & blood

Class

Vasopressin receptor agonist

Hospital prescription medicine, sold in the US as Vasostrict since 2014; vasopressin products had been used in hospitals for decades before that.

Bones & muscles. Also called Voxzogo, BMN 111.

A 39-amino-acid analogue of CNP (C-type natriuretic peptide), with two extra amino acids that make it resistant to the breakdown enzyme neprilysin. It binds natriuretic peptide receptor B on growth-plate cartilage cells, dampening FGFR3-driven signalling through the MAPK pathway.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Rare disease

Body system

Bones & muscles

Class

C-type natriuretic peptide analogue

Prescription medicine since 2021 in the EU and US, sold as Voxzogo.

Brain & nerves. Also called Prialt, SNX-111, Omega-conotoxin MVIIA.

A synthetic copy of omega-conotoxin MVIIA, a 25-amino-acid peptide from the venom of the cone snail Conus magus, with three disulfide bonds. It blocks N-type (CaV2.2) calcium channels on nerve endings, stopping the calcium entry needed for neurotransmitter release.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Pain medicine

Body system

Brain & nerves

Class

N-type calcium channel blocker

Prescription medicine since 2004 in the US and 2005 in the EU, sold as Prialt.

Bones & muscles. Also called Zilbrysq, RA101495.

A 15-amino-acid ring-shaped (macrocyclic) peptide with a fatty-acid tail that binds blood albumin, slowing clearance. It binds complement protein C5, stopping its cleavage into C5a and C5b and blocking C5b from joining C6, so the membrane attack complex cannot form.

Status

Medicine

Evidence so far

Marketed medicine

Clinical area

Neurology

Body system

Bones & muscles

Class

Complement C5 inhibitor (macrocyclic peptide)

Prescription medicine since 2023 in the US, EU and Japan, sold as Zilbrysq.