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Peptide A-Z Directory

An A-Z directory of peptide medicines, natural signaling molecules, cosmetic ingredients and research compounds, each with a status label and an evidence label.

Content last updated . This page has not been medically reviewed.

This directory lists named peptides and related compounds in alphabetical order, so you can look up one name and see what kind of thing it is. Each entry links to a fuller page. It is information only. It does not give dosing, injection or mixing instructions, sourcing advice or product rankings.

What each entry shows

Every entry carries a type, a status label and an evidence label. The status label says whether the entry is, for example, an approved medicine, an investigational compound, a commercially promoted product or a natural molecule made in the body. The evidence label says how much good research exists. Both labels depend on the country and the specific use. A regulator's approval for one product in one country does not apply to other products or countries, and "approved medicine" is the only label that names a regulator. For full definitions, read How to Read a Peptide Record.

Names can mislead

A molecule, a brand, a formulation and a marketing nickname are related but not the same thing. The same nickname may be used for different compounds, and a product sold under a name may not match the compound in a published study. Where identity could not be confirmed from a source, the entry says so. A generic name, such as an International Nonproprietary Name, identifies a pharmaceutical substance across countries [1], while a brand name belongs to one marketed product [2].

What is and is not included

The directory covers approved peptide medicines, natural signaling molecules, cosmetic and food-derived peptides, and research or commercially promoted compounds. Listing a compound is not an endorsement, a sign that it is safe, or a statement that it is legal where you live. It is not a complete list of every peptide. If you are new to the topic, start with What Are Peptides? or return to the Peptides & Modern Research hub.

A

B

C

D

E

G

H

  • Humanin

    Mitochondrial-derived peptide

    Investigational

I

L

M

  • Melanotan

    Melanocortin analogue

    Marketed, not approved for that use (Marketed, not approved)

  • MK-677 (ibutamoren)

    Non-peptide secretagogue

    Marketed, not approved for that use (Marketed, not approved)

  • MOTS-c

    Mitochondrial-derived peptide

    Investigational

O

  • Oxytocin

    Hormone

    Natural hormone or signal (Endogenous hormone and approved medicine)

P

S

T

Status labels describe each guide's own summary and differ by country and indication. A natural hormone, a medicine, a cosmetic ingredient and a commercial product are different things even when the name is similar.

Frequently asked questions

What is a peptide?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids. They include hormones the body makes, prescription medicines, skin-product ingredients and research compounds, and these groups do not share one set of effects or risks. See the full explainer on the peptides basics page.

Does being in the directory mean a peptide is approved?

No. Each entry shows its own status label. Approval depends on the regulator, the product and the use. [3]

Why do some peptides have several names?

A single molecule can have a generic name, one or more brand names and marketing nicknames. A generic (nonproprietary) name is public property and identifies the substance [1]. A brand is a trademark-protected name for one product [2].

Can I use the directory to decide what to take?

No. It explains what each compound is and what research exists. Decisions about medicines belong with a licensed professional who knows your health history.

How often is the directory updated?

Entries show the date they were last updated. Regulator positions and research change, so check the date on any entry you rely on.

More details: evidence, limits and cautions

The details behind this page: cautions, limits of the evidence and where sources disagree. Open any note to read it.

A note on safety
Do not start, stop or change a medicine based on a directory entry. Speak with your prescriber or pharmacist. For risks such as contamination and adverse events, see Peptide Safety: Adverse Events, Contamination and Injection Risks.
References
  1. World Health Organization. International Nonproprietary Names (INN). Read 2026-10-22.
  2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Drugs@FDA Glossary of Terms. Read 2026-10-22.
  3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Bulk Drug Substances Used in Compounding Under Section 503A of the FD&C Act. Read 2026-10-22.
Education, not medical advice. This page is for general information. It does not diagnose or treat any condition and is not a substitute for care from a qualified health professional. Natural does not automatically mean safe. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before changing your care, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition.