Compare Peptides

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

Popular comparisons

Teriparatide

Forteo, PTH 1-34

FDA Approved
Bone & Metabolic

BPC-157

Body Protection Compound-157, Bepecin

Pending PCAC
Healing & Recovery
Overview

A recombinant fragment of parathyroid hormone (amino acids 1-34) FDA-approved for osteoporosis. The first anabolic (bone-building) agent approved for osteoporosis, as opposed to anti-resorptive drugs that only slow bone loss.

A synthetic 15-amino acid peptide derived from a protective protein found in human gastric juice. One of the most widely researched peptides for tissue repair and recovery.

Mechanism of Action

Intermittent exposure to PTH(1-34) paradoxically stimulates osteoblast activity more than osteoclast activity, resulting in net bone formation. This is opposite to the bone-resorbing effect of continuously elevated PTH in hyperparathyroidism.

BPC-157 promotes angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation), upregulates growth factor expression, and modulates nitric oxide synthesis. It appears to accelerate healing of tendons, ligaments, muscles, and the GI tract through multiple pathways including the FAK-paxillin pathway.

Common Uses
  • Severe osteoporosis
  • Fracture risk reduction
  • Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis
  • Bone healing acceleration
  • Tendon and ligament repair
  • Gut healing and GI protection
  • Muscle injury recovery
  • Joint health
  • Post-surgical recovery
Known Risks
  • Osteosarcoma risk (boxed warning — based on rat studies at high doses)
  • Hypercalcemia
  • Orthostatic hypotension
  • Leg cramps
  • Nausea
  • Limited to 2 years of use
  • Limited human clinical trial data
  • Most research is animal-based
  • Potential interactions with blood pressure medications
  • Injection site reactions
  • Long-term safety profile unknown
Regulatory Status
FDA Approved

FDA-approved as Forteo (2002) for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men at high fracture risk. Limited to 2 years of treatment due to theoretical osteosarcoma risk. Biosimilar (Tymlos/abaloparatide is a related but distinct peptide).

Pending PCAC

On April 15, 2026, the FDA announced BPC-157 will be removed from the Category 2 'significant safety risks' list effective April 22, 2026. It is now scheduled for formal PCAC (Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee) review on July 23, 2026, to determine whether it should be added to the 503A bulk drug substances list. Removal from Category 2 does not authorize compounding — pharmacies should exercise caution until PCAC issues its recommendation. Previously reclassified to Category 1 in February 2026, a step that is now superseded by this more formal process.

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.