What Is BPC-157?
BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound 157) is a synthetic pentadecapeptide — a chain of 15 amino acids — derived from a protective protein found in human gastric juice. It does not occur naturally in this isolated form; it was synthesized for research purposes.
The compound was first studied for its cytoprotective effects on the gastrointestinal tract. Researchers subsequently found evidence of healing activity across a broader range of tissues, including tendons, ligaments, muscles, and the central nervous system.
What the Research Shows
The majority of BPC-157 research has been conducted in rodent models. Studies have reported accelerated healing of surgically severed tendons, improved recovery from muscle tears, and protective effects against NSAID-induced gut damage.
Human clinical trials are limited. A small number of studies have examined BPC-157's effects on inflammatory bowel disease, but the data is insufficient to draw conclusions about efficacy or safety in humans.
How It Is Used
In preclinical settings, BPC-157 has been administered via subcutaneous injection, intramuscular injection, intraperitoneal injection, and orally. Oral administration appears effective in animal models of gut injury, which is notable given that most peptides are degraded in the digestive tract.
Dosing protocols in the research literature vary widely. There is no established human dose.
What You Should Know
BPC-157 is not approved for human use in any jurisdiction and is classified as a research compound only. It is not a regulated pharmaceutical, and products sold online may vary significantly in purity and composition.
BPC-157 is one of the 12 peptides targeted in the current reclassification process. For details on what changes in July 2026, see What RFK's Peptide Reclassification Means for You.