If you’ve been curious about what peptide therapy is, you’re not alone. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that can influence everything from metabolism and appetite to tissue repair and hormone release. In this guide we’ll cover the basics: what peptides are, how peptide therapy works, who typically offers it, and what you can expect from a first visit. We’ll also touch on cost, safety, and how to use our clinic directory to find a provider.
Peptides are short chains of amino acids—the building blocks of proteins. They occur naturally in the body and can also be made in the lab. Many hormones and signaling molecules are peptides (e.g., insulin, GLP-1). In “peptide therapy,” we usually mean therapeutic peptides that are used to support specific health goals, such as:
So what is peptide therapy? In practice, it’s the use of these compounds—usually by injection, sometimes oral or topical—under the care of a licensed provider, where legally available.
Different peptides work in different ways. GLP-1 agonists (e.g., semaglutide, tirzepatide) reduce appetite and improve blood sugar. Growth hormone–releasing peptides (e.g., sermorelin) stimulate your pituitary to release more growth hormone. Topical copper peptides (e.g., GHK-Cu) support skin and wound healing when used in approved formulations. Your provider will choose (or avoid) specific peptides based on your goals, health history, and current FDA and compounding rules—which vary by compound.
Peptide therapy is offered by physicians, nurse practitioners, and other licensed providers who prescribe FDA-approved peptides (e.g., Ozempic, Wegovy, Vyleesi) or work with licensed compounding pharmacies where a peptide is legally compoundable (e.g., sermorelin, topical GHK-Cu). Not every peptide can be legally prescribed or compounded in the US; our Peptide Encyclopedia explains the status of each. You can browse our directory to find clinics that offer peptide therapy in your area.
A first visit usually includes a review of your health history, goals, and any contraindications. The provider will explain which options are appropriate and legal. If a peptide is prescribed, you may receive it as an injection (often at home after training), an oral medication, or a topical product. Follow-up and sometimes labs are used to monitor response and safety. Length of treatment depends on the peptide and your goals.
Cost varies widely. FDA-approved brand names (e.g., Ozempic, Wegovy) can be $900–$1,400+ per month without insurance; many plans now cover them for diabetes or obesity. Compounded peptides (when legal) are often $200–$500+ per month and are usually cash-based. Insurance rarely covers elective or off-label peptide use. HSA/FSA can often be used when a peptide is prescribed for a qualifying purpose.
Safety depends on the peptide and how it’s obtained. FDA-approved products have rigorous data; compounded products must come from licensed pharmacies. Some peptides are prohibited for compounding or not approved at all—using them can be unsafe and illegal. Our encyclopedia and blog posts on safety and FDA regulations go deeper.
Peptide therapy is the use of therapeutic peptides under medical supervision where legally permitted. It can support weight loss, recovery, anti-aging, and other goals when the right peptide is chosen and obtained through the right channels. Use our clinic directory and Peptide Encyclopedia to learn more and find a provider near you.
Browse our directory of verified peptide therapy clinics across the United States. Compare providers, read reviews, and request a consultation.
MyPeptideMatch.com does not provide medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide therapy. Regulatory status may change.
GuidesExplore the dosing protocols for GHK-Cu, comparing injection versus topical applications, and understand what to expect from clinical use.
GuidesLearn about the dosing protocols of Sermorelin, a growth hormone-releasing hormone analog, including titration schedules, administration methods, and factors affecting dosage.
GuidesLearn about semaglutide dosing protocols, titration schedules, and administration methods, including factors that affect dosing and what happens if you miss a dose.
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