There are thousands of different cellular signals and reactions that happen every second in our bodies. While most of them are bioenergetic—the body’s electromagnetic system that moves through and envelops the body—researchers are still trying to identify all the specific chemical signals and receptors.

Much of this novel work is based on the use of peptides, specific amino acid sequences, that can bind to receptor sites on cells and impact signaling pathways. Beginning in the 1920’s, peptide hormones entered medicine in a major way with insulin therapy, transforming diabetes care. In the U.S., peptides have been used for decades in mainstream medicine—and more recently they’ve also become a big part of the wellness/compounding marketplace, which is where most of today’s controversy sits.   

The cost of getting U.S. Food and Drug Association approval is being bypassed by many companies as this route is too prohibitive just to get to market. In fact, these unique peptides are being compounded in many pharmacies or they are carrying prepackaged peptides. One should consider getting peptides through FDA pharmacies that have a 503A patient-specific compounding/503B larger sterile compounding rating. Some options are Olympia Pharmaceuticals and Wells Pharmacy network along with ReviveRx. Integrative Peptides is well respected and used by the public and practitioners for their patented peptide products. 

While so-called wellness peptides may not have the same level of FDA clinical trials behind them, their utility in being able to target specific organs and functions is becoming more and more apparent. Some of them are bp157, a recovery and healing peptide; thymosin B fragment, another injury repair peptide, Larazotide, to restore intestinal barrier function; thymosin alpha 1, for immune resilience; PT 141, to enhance sexual desire and function; and KPV, for gut inflammation and histamine/mast cell over activation. 

It’s suggested that those interested in this subject should seek the advice of a professional with some experience and expertise in this area.  

Kamau Kokayi, M.D., is owner of Kokayi Health Services with two locations at 425 S. Sharon Amity Rd., Ste. B in Charlotte and 5803 Wilkinson Blvd., in Belmont. For more information or to make an appointment, call 310-713-5764 or visit KokayiHealth.com.

Kokayi Health Services

In consulting with Dr Kokayi you are receiving the services of someone who is a graduate of Yale medical School and has practiced as a holistic physician from his first days out of resi... Read More »