Compare Peptides

Select any two compounds for a side-by-side comparison of mechanism, uses, risks, and FDA regulatory status.

Popular comparisons

BPC-157 (Oral Form)

BPC-157 capsule, Oral BPC-157

Pending PCAC
Healing & Recovery

TB-500

Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment, TB4-Frag

Pending PCAC
Healing & Recovery
Overview

The oral formulation of BPC-157, distinct from the injectable form in its bioavailability profile and primary applications. While injectable BPC-157 is used for systemic and musculoskeletal healing, oral BPC-157 is particularly relevant for gastrointestinal conditions where direct gut exposure may be more important than systemic absorption.

A synthetic fragment of thymosin beta-4, a naturally occurring peptide involved in tissue repair and regeneration. Widely used in the biohacking community for injury recovery.

Mechanism of Action

Same mechanism as injectable BPC-157 — promotes angiogenesis, upregulates growth factors, and modulates nitric oxide synthesis. In oral form, the peptide is exposed directly to the GI tract mucosa before any systemic absorption, potentially making it more effective for gut-specific conditions.

Promotes cell migration, blood vessel formation, and reduces inflammation. Upregulates actin, a cell-building protein critical for healing and cell migration to injury sites.

Common Uses
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Leaky gut and intestinal permeability
  • NSAID-induced gastric damage
  • Gut healing and GI protection
  • Esophageal and stomach ulcers
  • Muscle and tendon repair
  • Wound healing
  • Reducing inflammation
  • Hair regrowth (emerging research)
  • Cardiac tissue repair
Known Risks
  • Lower and more variable systemic bioavailability than injectable
  • Limited human clinical data for oral form specifically
  • Quality of oral preparations varies significantly
  • Long-term safety unknown
  • Limited human clinical data
  • Potential tumor growth concerns (theoretical)
  • Injection site reactions
  • Headaches reported anecdotally
Regulatory Status
Pending PCAC

Shares the same regulatory status as injectable BPC-157 — removed from FDA 503A Category 2 effective April 22, 2026. Scheduled for PCAC review on July 23, 2026. The oral form is particularly relevant for the FDA's listed indication of ulcerative colitis. Compounding not yet authorized.

PCAC: July 23, 2026

Pending PCAC

On April 15, 2026, the FDA announced TB-500 will be removed from the Category 2 'significant safety risks' list effective April 22, 2026. Scheduled for PCAC review on July 23, 2026 to determine eligibility for the 503A bulk drug substances list. Compounding pharmacies should exercise caution until PCAC takes action.

PCAC: July 23, 2026

This comparison is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide therapy.