When you’re trying to turn back the clock, perhaps exploring peptides could be worth considering.
You’ve probably come across several peptides like insulin, or maybe Ozempic and Mounjaro, which is linked to GLP-1 (that’s glucagon-like peptide-1, in case you were wondering).
Michael Aziz, often referred to as the Longevity Doctor and one of the authors of The Ageless Revolution, describes peptides as “short chains of amino acids.” The FDA recognizes over 30 amino acids as peptides, though there are likely many more not yet officially acknowledged.
The increasing popularity of life-extending medications has spurred biohackers to delve into peptides that may specifically promote longevity.
While we might not find a magic solution for living longer, three peptides could offer some hope for long-term health benefits.
1. Semaglutide
If you’re following some celebrities like Oprah or Rebel Wilson, you might already be aware of semaglutide. Essentially, Ozempic and Wegovy are the brand names for this peptide.
Aziz shared with the Post that studies show Ozempic not only aids in weight loss and diabetes management but also enhances metabolic function and lowers the risk of heart attack and stroke by roughly 20%.
“If used properly—through a balanced diet, sufficient protein intake, and exercise—Ozempic can potentially be a longevity peptide,” he states.
Recent studies are examining the benefits of what’s called a “maintenance dose” of Ozempic, the smallest dose, to sustain metabolic health as more cardiologists begin to recommend this option.
He has noticed many patients understanding these peptides’ longevity impact and preferring to use them for maintenance over weight loss. For those with a family history of heart-related issues or prediabetes, low doses of semaglutide could possibly improve metabolic function and even have anti-aging effects, Aziz suggests.
Still, some medical professionals are cautious about endorsing maintenance doses of semaglutide. Dr. Katie Williams recently stated that if major weight loss isn’t your aim, prioritizing lifestyle changes, like diet and exercise, may be wiser than risking exposure to potential side effects from GLP-1 medications, which can range from nausea to more serious issues, including eating disorders.
A point to note is that microdosing differs from standard dosing primarily in terms of appetite suppression, which may be less noticeable. However, there’s much more research needed in this space, Aziz believes. He claims that these smaller doses could help alleviate inflammation, a major factor associated with aging.
2. Epitalon
An aspect of aging is the shortening of telomeres.
“As cells multiply, telomeres, which are essentially the caps on chromosomes, get shorter and shorter,” Aziz notes. “Eventually, when they shrink enough, the cells stop dividing and die off. Longer telomeres are correlated with a longer life.”
He points out that epitalon, a peptide not well-known among physicians, was created to address this very issue—thought to lengthen telomeres and hinder cell aging by activating certain enzymes.
One study indicated that epitalon could induce active cell growth in rat cells. Another study involving human tissue suggested that cells treated with epitalon displayed longer telomeres, hinting at its potential anti-aging benefits by allowing cells to divide longer than untreated cells.
Despite needing more examination on humans, Aziz mentions many advantages of epitalon: “It acts as an antioxidant, enhances sleep, improves skin health, and helps heal injuries while possibly preventing diseases commonly seen in older adults like cancer and heart disease.”
3. GHK-Cu
Research on GHK-Cu and its longevity effects is still developing, but some studies suggest this peptide, derived from human saliva, urine, and plasma combined with copper, might help boost collagen production, DNA repair, and preserve stem cells as we age.
Aziz explains, “At birth, we have around 700 stem cells, but that number dwindles as we get older—by age 60, almost all are gone. GHK-Cu may help prolong the life of these stem cells.”
For now, its primary applications are cosmetic rather than medicinal. GHK-Cu can be injected or used topically in creams, though the injections can be painful, which has led Aziz to recommend the topical option instead.
Where can I get these peptides?
Access to prescriptions for semaglutide has indeed surged globally, now available from both healthcare providers and various online platforms. However, Aziz stresses the necessity of acquiring these medications through a doctor’s prescription.
Some peptides are still awaiting FDA approval, leaving many people to turn to the so-called “gray market,” particularly from Southeast Asia, for cheaper alternatives.
A concerning trend is emerging where individuals are seeking out online compounds for a fraction of the cost, often guided by TikTok or Reddit advice, despite the potential dangers involved.
Aziz cautions, “Those buying online should understand these peptides may originate from animal research and could be counterfeit.”
Some websites advertise their products for lab use only, yet budget-conscious consumers may overlook that indicator. Many individuals risk injecting fake doses or unsafe substances.
As reported earlier, the price of a name-brand GLP-1 can reach up to $1,000 monthly, with telemedicine options offering variations for $300 to $400. Conversely, gray market suppliers can sometimes provide a year’s worth for as little as $100.
Though it tends to be pricey, Aziz encourages individuals to collaborate with their healthcare providers to establish a safe and suitable plan that aligns with their financial and health needs.
