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How do peptides work?

The science, simplified

Stylized illustration of a peptide chain with blue, green, and cream colored beads linked together

Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the building blocks that make up proteins. Many peptides occur naturally in the body, and many work like tiny messengers signaling parts of your body to do specific things.

What makes them interesting to researchers is their specificity. Different peptides interact with different targets in the body, like keys cut for particular locks. That precision is why peptides are an active area of scientific study across a range of biological processes, from hormone signaling to tissue repair.

You’ve probably heard of GLP-1 medications like and . Yes, those are peptides too.

Peptides are a fast-moving and heavily regulated area. Only certain ones are FDA-approved, and many remain investigational. At PreventiveMD, we only offer what’s legally available and our licensed providers can help you understand the options that are right for you and what the evidence does and doesn’t yet show.

Our peptides

Physician-guided peptide therapy

Cream bottle of 100% U.S.-compounded GHK-Cu (GHK-Copper) from PreventiveMD

GHK-Cu

Starting at $119 per month, all-in

A copper-binding peptide found in the body, studied for its role in skin and tissue health.

Injection vial of 100% U.S.-compounded Glutathione from PreventiveMD

Glutathione

Starting at $124 per month, all-in

An antioxidant the body produces, involved in cellular and metabolic processes.

Injection vial of 100% U.S.-compounded NAD+ from PreventiveMD

NAD+

Starting at $149 per month, all-in

A coenzyme found in every cell, central to energy metabolism and cellular function.

Injection vial of 100% U.S.-compounded Semaglutide from PreventiveMD

Semaglutide

Starting at $149 per month, all-in

Builds on GLP-1, a natural hormone involved in appetite and metabolic regulation.

Injection vial of 100% U.S.-compounded Sermorelin from PreventiveMD

Sermorelin

Starting at $149 per month, all-in

Builds on GHRH, the body's natural signal for growth hormone release.

Injection vial of 100% U.S.-compounded Tirzepatide from PreventiveMD

Tirzepatide

Starting at $199 per month, all-in

Builds on GLP-1 and GIP, two natural hormones involved in appetite and metabolic regulation.

Bottle of Foundayo (orforglipron) tablets

Foundayo®

$50 per month membership fee +

Builds on GLP-1, a natural hormone involved in appetite and metabolic regulation.

Wegovy (semaglutide) injection pen and tablet

Wegovy®

$50 per month membership fee +

The FDA-approved branded version of semaglutide. Builds on GLP-1, a natural hormone involved in appetite and metabolic regulation.

Zepbound (tirzepatide) KwikPen and injection vial

Zepbound®

$50 per month membership fee +

The FDA-approved branded version of tirzepatide. Builds on GLP-1 and GIP, two natural hormones involved in appetite and metabolic regulation.

FAQs

In case you were wondering

You’ll see GLP-1s discussed in two forms: FDA-approved branded products and compounded versions prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy. Both contain the same active peptide, but they’re not the same product. FDA-approved branded GLP-1s have been reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy, and manufacturing quality. Compounded GLP-1s have not been reviewed in the same way, and the rules governing when they can be legally compounded depend on factors like FDA shortage status and clinical need that have shifted considerably over the last year.

At PreventiveMD, we offer branded GLP-1s, as well as compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide where it’s clinically appropriate and currently permitted. Your provider can explain the differences, the trade-offs, and which option fits your situation.

Peptides have been studied for decades and many are well-tolerated when prescribed and dispensed properly. That said, no medication is universally safe — it depends on the specific peptide, the dose, your medical history, and the quality of the source.

That’s why we work exclusively with licensed providers who review your full health profile before prescribing, and with state-licensed 503A pharmacies. If a peptide isn’t right for you, we’ll tell you.

Common side effects vary by medication. Your provider will walk through what to expect for your specific protocol once they review your information. You will also be able to see this information in your Care Portal.

If you experience a concerning reaction, message your care team — they respond within 24 hours, or sooner for urgent symptoms.

For severe reactions (difficulty breathing, swelling, or signs of an allergic response), seek emergency care first, then let us know.

How to get started

Preventive care begins here

Eve, your PreventiveMD concierge

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