FDA reviews peptide injections favored by RFK Jr. and wellness influencers - AP News

What the report says

The Associated Press reports that a Food and Drug Administration advisory panel on Thursday narrowly supported easing access to several injectable peptide compounds that have become popular in wellness circles, despite FDA scientists’ concerns that evidence of safety and effectiveness remains limited. The outside advisers voted across several questions 8-6, with one abstention, to recommend that substances including BPC-157, TB-500 and KPV be placed on an FDA list of ingredients considered safe for pharmacy compounding.

The recommendation is not binding, but AP notes that the FDA often follows advisory panel guidance. If adopted, the move could allow compounding pharmacies and telehealth companies to more openly supply and market the products, which are promoted online for uses such as muscle building, injury recovery, skin rejuvenation and energy. The panel was scheduled to continue Friday with votes on three additional peptides.

The decision intersects with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s interest in the substances. AP reported that Kennedy has said he is a supporter of peptides and has pledged to undo restrictions adopted during the Biden administration. The meeting also drew scrutiny because more than a half-dozen people with peptide industry ties were added to the advisory group before the session.

FDA reviewers said they found little reliable human data for proposed medical uses, and AP cited agency concerns that some peptide names lack a clear legal pharmaceutical definition. Supporters argued that allowing pharmacy compounding could reduce reliance on unvetted overseas products, while critics described the market as poorly regulated and warned of possible harms such as infections or allergic reactions.