Ep. 116: Peptides 101: What They Are, What's Legal, and What's Actually Worth Your Money — The Aesthetic Doctor

Dr. Judith Borger breaks down what peptides actually are at the molecular level, unpacks the fast-moving and often confusing FDA regulatory landscape around peptide compounding in 2026, and gives an evidence-based rundown of the most talked-about peptide products and stacks — including “Glow” (GHK-Cu), “Wolverine” (BPC-157/TB-500), CJC-1295/Ipamorelin, PT-141, and the GLP-1s.

In This Episode:

What peptides are and how they differ from proteins and amino acids
Why some peptides act as hormones, antioxidants, or signaling molecules in the body
The current FDA regulatory status of peptide compounding, including the 503A Bulk Drug Substances List and the 2026 Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee review
Why “removed from the safety watch-list” is not the same as “approved for compounding”
The difference between a peptide from a licensed compounding pharmacy versus an unregulated online vendor
A breakdown of popular peptide products: Glow (GHK-Cu, glutathione, and vitamin C — sometimes also including BPC-157 and TB-500), Wolverine (BPC-157 + TB-500), CJC-1295/Ipamorelin, PT-141 (bremelanotide/Vyleesi), and GLP-1s (semaglutide, tirzepatide)
Why “Glow” and “Wolverine” aren't always separate products — some Glow formulations fold in the same BPC-157/TB-500 combination sold as Wolverine
What real human clinical evidence exists for each — and where the evidence is limited to animal studies or mechanistic theory
Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status discussed reflects information available as of August 2026 and is subject to change; listeners should confirm current FDA guidance and consult a licensed physician before considering any peptide therapy.

Dr. Judith Borger Links: