BPC-157: What It Is and What Is Known

BPC-157 is a chain of 15 amino acids. It is based on part of a protein found in human gastric juice, and the version used in research is made in a laboratory. The name comes from "body protection compound."

Most published research on BPC-157 has been done in cells and in animals, looking at tissues such as tendon, ligament, muscle, and the digestive tract.

Results in animals do not show whether a substance is safe or effective in people. Published research in humans is very limited, and large, controlled clinical trials have not been reported.

BPC-157 is not FDA-approved. That means the FDA has not reviewed evidence that it is safe and effective for any condition.

In its review of substances nominated for use in compounding, FDA said compounded BPC-157 may pose a risk of immune reactions for some routes of administration, noted concerns about peptide-related impurities, and said it found little or no safety information for the proposed uses.

BPC-157 is not on FDA's list of bulk substances that pharmacies may use to compound medications. An FDA advisory committee discussed whether to add it in July 2026. As of November 2026, FDA had not published a final decision.

The World Anti-Doping Agency prohibits BPC-157 at all times, in and out of competition, in class S0 for substances not approved for human use. The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) has issued an athlete advisory about it.

If you are subject to drug testing in your sport, check with your anti-doping organization before using any product.