Peptide Therapy
In the modern world, chronic stress and the natural aging process, along with certain illnesses, can negatively impact your body’s ability to function efficiently and regenerate cells and tissues. This suboptimal repair can further disrupt libido, metabolism, and digestion. Peptide therapies aim to address these shortcomings through the use of synthetic versions of natural signaling molecules that enhance hormone production and optimize recovery systems.
What are Peptides?
Peptides are chains of amino acids, the same building blocks that make up muscle tissue. Many peptides act as signaling molecules for unique tasks in the body, helping to regulate a wide range of natural processes. Some well-known examples of peptides include the hormones insulin, leptin, and growth hormone.
Is this a new therapy?
While this might sound like a novel approach, peptides themselves have been used in medicine for nearly 100 years, namely to replace deficient hormones such as insulin. Emerging therapies seek to boost the body’s own ability to produce specific metabolic hormones, rather than replace them. This approach helps to preserve the natural regulatory systems that keep these hormones in check, leading to safer treatments with fewer side effects. While further research is ongoing, peptide therapies show promise toward revitalizing metabolism and improving natural recovery processes.
How are Peptides and Growth Hormones different?
Growth Hormone (GH) is responsible for helping your body maintain and revitalize organs and tissues throughout your lifespan. Its effects are most pronounced during childhood, but as we age, our GH production becomes less efficient, leading to suboptimal levels. This has sparked interest in using synthetic Human Growth Hormone (HGH) to combat age-related tissue damage and improve body systems. However, HGH treatment comes with risks, including disruption of your body’s ability to produce GH on its own.
Alternatively, peptide therapies were developed to target the natural production of GH, utilizing synthetic versions of peptides the body already uses to regulate the system. This allows GH levels to be optimized while preserving the natural checks and balances that prevent excessive hormone production. In this way, peptides offer many of the benefits of a finely tuned recovery system while emphasizing safety and mitigating risks.
What are the potential benefits of peptide therapy?
Because of the individual effects of different signaling molecules, benefits may vary depending on the specific peptide treatment. At MHB, we offer patients targeted treatments customized to each individual’s needs and goals:
Sermorelin – Sleep, Muscle, Sexual Function
Sermorelin imitates hormone known as Growth Hormone Release Hormone (GHRH), which is responsible for driving GH production within the body. In doing so, Sermorelin optimizes your ability to produce this recovery hormone naturally. New research suggests Sermorelin may also stimulate the hormones FSH and LH, suggesting the potential as an alternative treatment for men suffering from low testosterone.
Potential benefits include:
- Increased lean muscle mass
- Enhanced recovery from training
- Improved libido and sexual function
Frequently Asked Questions About Peptide Therapy
Are there risks with Peptide Therapy?
While all treatments come with risks, peptides offer a robust safety profile compared to similar therapies such as Human Growth Hormone (HGH) replacement or steroid use for recovery. Reported side effects are typically mild, such as flushing, headache, nausea, and sleepiness. Because peptides mirror natural molecules, your body knows how to deal with them, and all the inherent safe-guards remain in place, while getting the best out of the system that’s already there.
Can you use peptides as a combined therapy with Testosterone or other weight loss treatments?
Yes – in fact, we highly encourage it. When you feel better, you move better – and you get better results. Peptide Therapy works synergistically with healthy lifestyle changes to help you look and feel your best. In men with low testosterone, peptides are another tool to help promote natural hormonal balance.
How much does the Peptide Therapy Program cost? Will my insurance cover it?
At MHB, we are committed to making our treatments accessible and affordable for our patients. We offer extremely competitive pricing for patients interested in this novel therapy. $175/month is the typical base cost, though price may vary depending on treatment. For more information, schedule an assessment to discuss costs/benefits with your provider.
***At this time, Peptide Therapies are not covered by most major insurance plans.
What does peptide therapy involve?
Peptide Treatments are available through a variety of applications, but the most common are injection, pills, and creams. It is important to consider that different applications have different levels of bioavailability, a measurement of how effectively the body can absorb and use the peptides being introduced. Injectable forms of peptides remain by far the most bioavailable, to the tune of 10-20x that of other application methods.
How often will I need to take Peptides?
Peptide Therapy typically involves daily doses for several months to see full results. Treatment protocols may vary depending on patient needs and goals.
Will I Be Given Instructions on How to Self-Inject?
If an injectable peptide is recommended for your treatment goals, you will receive hands-on training in how to use the medication safely and effectively. We will ensure you feel totally comfortable with the process.
Research on Peptide Therapy:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28830317/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28400207/
https://www.menshealthboston.com/wp-content/uploads/Peptides-and-TRT.pdf
Additional resources:
https://www.biltmorerestorativemedicine.com/the-benefits-of-peptide-therapy/
https://moderntherapy.com/what-are-peptides/
https://opthealthwellness.com/what-are-the-benefits-of-peptide-therapy/