| Compound | BPC-157 |
|---|---|
| Category | Synthetic gastric-juice peptide fragment |
| Class | Healing and Anti-Inflammatory Peptides |
| Evidence tier | Preclinical |
| WADA status | Not individually listed; verify current status if subject to testing |
| Sold on this site | No — this is a reference database |
Overview
This entry covers BPC-157, a synthetic gastric-juice peptide fragment, graded "Preclinical" in this catalog's evidence system. The evidence base for this compound is dominated by animal and cell-culture studies. Mechanism may be plausible; human benefit and safety are unestablished.
A synthetic pentadecapeptide fragment of a protein found in human gastric juice, widely discussed for tissue healing. Its evidence base is almost entirely preclinical — rodent and cell-culture studies — with no completed randomized human trials.
Mechanism of Action
In animal models BPC-157 has been reported to influence fibroblast migration, angiogenesis, and the nitric oxide system, and to affect healing of tendon, ligament, and gastrointestinal lesions. How — or whether — these mechanisms translate to humans is unknown.
Research and Evidence
A frequently cited rat Achilles tendon study found accelerated tendon-explant outgrowth and enhanced fibroblast survival. The many rodent studies have not been followed by the controlled human outcome trials that would establish clinical utility, and quality of the published literature is debated.
Safety and Side Effects
There are no robust human safety datasets. Research-grade material carries unverified composition and sterility, and BPC-157 appears on FDA lists of substances under evaluation for compounding restrictions. Long-term risks, interactions, and appropriate dosing in humans are all uncharacterized.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the evidence tier of BPC-157?
BPC-157 is graded "Preclinical" on this site. The evidence base for this compound is dominated by animal and cell-culture studies. Mechanism may be plausible; human benefit and safety are unestablished.
Is BPC-157 an approved medicine?
No. Preclinical means the compound has not reached universal regulatory approval; the tier description above explains exactly what level of evidence exists.
Where can I read the primary studies for BPC-157?
The references section at the end of this entry links the key primary sources — regulator labels, trial registrations, and peer-reviewed papers. Our "How to Read a Peptide Study" guide explains how to evaluate them.
References
- Chang CH, et al. BPC-157 accelerates tendon healing in rats. J Appl Physiol 2011. [source]
- ClinicalTrials.gov — search for registered BPC-157 studies. [source]
Evidence tier: Preclinical · Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Sources cited below.