Injectable Peptide Therapy: A Primer for Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Physicians

Therapeutic peptides are short-chain amino acids that regulate cellular functions and facilitate biochemical processes. In recent years, there has been significant growth in the global market for therapeutic peptides and thus its popularity among patients. Given the increase in the development of peptides and increased marketing to patients for orthopaedic injuries, it is critical for orthopaedic surgeons to understand the current evidence behind these therapeutic peptides. PURPOSE: To evaluate the current evidence and applications of injectable peptide therapy, focusing on its potential in regenerative medicine and sports performance, to help orthopaedic providers better understand the current state of different therapeutic peptide approaches. STUDY DESIGN: Narrative review.

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed to identify biochemical and clinical studies on the most popular types of injectable peptide therapy. Key peptides evaluated included BPC-157, TB-4, TB-500, CJC-1295 + ipamorelin, tesamorelin, and GHK-Cu.