BPC-157: Body protection compound

Body protection compound-157 (BPC-157) was identified in 1992 as a peptide that is part of the "gastric juices" found in the human stomach. As part of a healthy GI tract, BPC-157 was found to promote healthy stomach lining and to maintain homeostasis (stability). Since its discovery it has been studied in various applications with findings that support its effectiveness as an anti-inflammatory and regenerative aid.

It is important to note that at this time, BPC-157 is not FDA approved and is currently banned in many sports. However, there is research which suggests that this naturally occuring peptide has a protective effect on many organs such as the digestive tract, the heart, nerves, liver and pancreas. Additional research shows a positive impact on the healing of bones, nerves, muscles and joints. Thus far, research has not shown any adverse effects in preclinical release of findings.

Animal and human studes have consistently reported a positive impact on recovery times, improved tissue strength and decreased injury inflammation following treatment with BPC-157. There are several studies which suggest that this peptide may even aid in the recovery from traumatic brain injury and may influence blood clot formation.

BPC-157 can be found in capsule and injectable form. At this time, some providers offering peptide therapy do not recommend use of the oral form of BPC-157, since it is suggested that the compounded peptide is likely not stable when it enters the stomach. Some healthcare providers may suggest use of the capsules to help heal disorders of the digestive tract, but recommend the injectable form for all other applications. There are providers who are even injecting this peptide directly into joints or injured tissues to promote healing.

The mechanism of action of BPC-157 is still being studies, but it seems to work by increasing cell growth in injured tissue, increasing blood flow to injured tissues, increasing growth hormone receptor expression in injured tissue and regulating nitric oxide production. Interestingly, despite increasing growth hormone receptor activity in injured tissues, BPC-157 has demonstrated an anti-tumor effect.

There are currently human trials exploring the effects of this novel peptide. Interactions of BPC-157 and other medications/peptides are not extensively studied but thus far there are no positive findings in the literature.

As a recovery and restorative peptide, there are many blends which include BPC-157 for it's anti-inflammatory effects and tissue regenerative properties.

References

Vasireddi N, Hahamyan H, Salata MJ, Karns M, Calcei JG, Voos JE, Apostolakos JM. Emerging Use of BPC-157 in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine: A Systematic Review. HSS J. 2025 Jul 31:15563316251355551. doi: 10.1177/15563316251355551. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 40756949; PMCID: PMC12313605.

McGuire FP, Martinez R, Lenz A, Skinner L, Cushman DM. Regeneration or Risk? A Narrative Review of BPC-157 for Musculoskeletal Healing. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med. 2025 Dec;18(12):611-619. doi: 10.1007/s12178-025-09990-7. Epub 2025 Aug 12. PMID: 40789979; PMCID: PMC12446177.

Gojkovic S, Krezic I, Vrdoljak B, Malekinusic D, Barisic I, Petrovic A, et al. Pentadecapeptide BPC 157 resolves Suprahepatic occlusion of the inferior caval vein, Budd-Chiari syndrome model in rats. World J Gastrointest Pathophysiol. 2020;11:1. [DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar][Ref list]