Peptides have become one of the most talked-about topics lately when it comes to weight loss, physical performance, rejuvenation and longevity. Publicised on social media as "intelligent molecules" capable of accelerating aesthetic and metabolic results, they have begun to occupy space.
But after all, what exactly are peptides? Do they work? Are they safe? And why are some approved for medical use whilst others still generate controversy?
What are peptides?
Peptides are small chains of amino acids, structures that function as "biological messengers" within the body. They naturally participate in various physiological processes, such as hormone production, metabolism control, tissue repair, immunity and cell growth.
In practice, many peptides act by stimulating specific receptors in the body, triggering targeted biological responses. It is precisely this characteristic that has sparked the interest of modern medicine.
Some of them have been used for years in endocrinology, diabetology and gastroenterology. Others are still in experimental phase or have restricted use.
Where do peptides act in the body?
The site of action depends on the type of peptide used.
Some act in the brain, especially in areas related to appetite control and satiety. Others act in the pancreas, stimulating the release of insulin. There are also those that act on muscle tissue, skin, the immune system or the gastrointestinal tract.
The most well-known at present are GLP-1 receptor agonists, used mainly for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity.
These medications help to:
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reduce appetite;
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increase feelings of satiety;
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delay gastric emptying;
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improve glycaemic control;
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assist with weight loss.
Examples of the most well-known peptides currently
Among the most discussed peptides are:
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semaglutide;
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tirzepatide;
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liraglutide;
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tesamorelin;
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ipamorelin;
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BPC-157;
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CJC-1295;
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collagen peptides.
Some have formal approval for certain diseases. Others are used experimentally, compounded or even without robust scientific backing.
What already has medical approval?
Medications such as semaglutide and liraglutide have approval in various countries for type 2 diabetes and, in some specific formulations, also for obesity. Tirzepatide has been gaining ground due to important results in weight loss and metabolic control.
In Brazil, use depends on the indication approved by the National Health Surveillance Agency, as well as individualised medical evaluation.
Other peptides publicised for "anti-ageing", muscle hypertrophy or accelerated regeneration do not yet have broad approval, especially for aesthetic purposes. Many lack long-term studies on efficacy and safety.
This is one of the main current problems: the trivialisation of use without medical criteria.
The side that barely appears on social media
Although the results publicised on social media are often impressive, inappropriate use can bring significant risks.
Among the possible side effects are:
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nausea;
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vomiting;
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constipation;
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diarrhoea;
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excessive loss of muscle mass;
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dehydration;
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hypoglycaemia;
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pancreatitis;
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significant gastrointestinal alterations;
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hormonal disturbances.
In some cases, the problem lies not only in the peptide itself, but in the source of the substance used.
Informal commercialisation, manipulations without rigorous control and use without medical supervision significantly increase the risks.
When can peptides really be indicated?
Imagine the following clinical scenario:
A 46-year-old woman with obesity, hypertension and pre-diabetes, who has tried multiple weight loss strategies over the years. She presents with food compulsion, difficulty with dietary adherence and progressive worsening of metabolic tests.
After complete medical evaluation, lifestyle changes and appropriate clinical investigation, the use of a GLP-1 agonist may be considered as part of treatment.
In this context, the objective is not merely aesthetic. There is metabolic benefit, cardiovascular benefit and reduction of disease progression risk.
This is a classic example in which use may be pertinent and based on scientific evidence.
When should use NOT happen?
The problem arises when substances are used without clinical necessity, merely due to aesthetic pressure or promise of rapid results.
People with eating disorders, patients without metabolic evaluation, individuals with medical contraindications or users seeking "shortcuts" for weight loss may experience significant complications.
There is also concern about use associated with protocols publicised as "miraculous", especially in environments without adequate medical supervision.
Additionally, many peptides sold as a solution for rejuvenation or muscle gain still possess limited evidence.
The hype of longevity and the challenge of evidence-based medicine
The discussion about peptides is part of a larger trend: the search for longevity, performance and optimisation of the human body.
Scientific interest in the field is real and growing rapidly. However, there is an important difference between promising research and widespread use without sufficient proof.
In medicine, enthusiasm does not replace evidence.
Therefore, any treatment should consider:
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real benefit;
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safety;
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patient profile;
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correct indication;
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clinical follow-up;
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long-term risks.
Information is different from incentive
The growing interest in peptides shows how the population is increasingly engaged with topics related to metabolic health, aesthetics and quality of life.
But it is fundamental to remember that not every novelty is automatically safe for everyone.
Each organism has its own characteristics, specific contraindications and individual needs. The use of these substances requires responsible medical evaluation, adequate follow-up and careful analysis of available scientific evidence.
This content is exclusively informative and educational in nature. It does not replace medical consultation, individualised diagnosis or professional follow-up. Never use medications, hormones or peptides on your own.
Dr. Rebeca Soares Andrade CRM-GO 39335