BPC-157

Overview

BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound-157) is a synthetic 15-amino acid peptide (sequence: Gly-Glu-Pro-Pro-Pro-Gly-Lys-Pro-Ala-Asp-Asp-Ala-Gly-Leu-Val) derived from a protective protein naturally present in human gastric juice. Since its initial characterization in the early 1990s by Predrag Sikiric and colleagues at the University of Zagreb, BPC-157 has become one of the most extensively studied regenerative peptides in preclinical literature, with over 100 published studies demonstrating tissue-protective and healing properties across multiple organ systems.

Unlike many synthetic peptides that target a single receptor pathway, BPC-157 appears to exert pleiotropic effects through modulation of growth factors, nitric oxide systems, and the FAK-paxillin pathway. Its stability in gastric acid--unusual for a peptide--has prompted interest in both injectable and oral delivery routes. Despite robust preclinical data, no controlled human clinical trials have been completed, and BPC-157 remains unapproved by the FDA.

Mechanism of Action

BPC-157 operates through several interconnected molecular pathways that collectively drive tissue protection and repair. At the cellular level, the peptide upregulates the FAK-paxillin signaling cascade, which governs cell migration, adhesion, and proliferation--critical processes in wound healing and tissue remodeling.

The peptide exerts potent effects on angiogenesis by enhancing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, promoting formation of new blood vessels in ischemic and injured tissue. It also modulates the nitric oxide (NO) system, a key regulator of vascular tone, inflammation, and cytoprotection. BPC-157 appears to restore NO homeostasis in states of both excess and deficiency, which may explain its broad protective effects.

Additionally, BPC-157 interacts with the dopaminergic and GABAergic systems, offering neuroprotective potential, and counteracts the negative effects of NSAIDs, alcohol, and other gastrointestinal irritants through direct cytoprotective mechanisms.

• Growth factor modulation: Upregulates VEGF, EGF, and growth hormone receptor expression
• Nitric oxide system regulation: Restores NO balance in both depleted and excess states
• Anti-inflammatory action: Reduces TNF-alpha, IL-6, and other pro-inflammatory cytokines
• FAK-paxillin pathway activation: Promotes cell migration, adhesion, and wound closure
• Angiogenesis: Enhances new blood vessel formation in injured tissue
• Neuroprotection: Modulates dopaminergic and serotonergic pathways

Clinical Applications

Primary Indications

The strongest preclinical evidence supports BPC-157 for musculoskeletal healing. Animal studies consistently demonstrate accelerated recovery of tendons, ligaments, muscles, and bone. In rat models of Achilles tendon transection, BPC-157 significantly improved tendon tensile strength and histological organization compared to controls. Similar benefits have been observed in models of muscle crush injury, bone fracture, and ligament damage.

• Tendon injuries and tendinopathy (Achilles, rotator cuff, patellar)
• Ligament sprains and partial tears
• Muscle strains, contusions, and post-surgical recovery
• Bone fracture healing support (preclinical evidence)

Secondary / Off-Label Uses

BPC-157 has demonstrated compelling gastrointestinal protection in numerous animal models. It accelerates healing of gastric ulcers, counteracts NSAID-induced enteropathy, and reduces inflammation in models resembling inflammatory bowel disease. The peptide also shows neuroprotective potential, with preclinical data suggesting benefits in peripheral nerve injuries, traumatic brain injury models, and dopaminergic system dysfunction.

• Gastric and duodenal ulcer healing
• NSAID-induced gastrointestinal damage (protective and therapeutic)
• Inflammatory bowel disease support
• Peripheral nerve injury recovery
• CNS protection and dopaminergic system support (preclinical)

Dosing & Administration

Administration Tips

Reconstitute lyophilized BPC-157 with bacteriostatic water. For a 5 mg vial, adding 2 mL yields 2500 mcg/mL (each 0.1 mL insulin syringe division equals 250 mcg). Gently swirl--never shake--to dissolve. Store reconstituted solution refrigerated at 2-8 degrees C and use within 21 days. For localized injuries, injecting within a few centimeters of the affected tissue may enhance local concentration, though systemic administration also reaches injury sites via the bloodstream.

Safety Considerations

Common Side Effects

BPC-157 is generally well-tolerated in clinical experience. Most patients report no adverse effects. When side effects occur, they are typically mild and self-limiting.

• Injection site reactions: Mild redness, tenderness, or itching at injection site (transient, resolves within hours)
• Nausea: Rare, more common at higher doses or with oral administration
• Dizziness/lightheadedness: Uncommon, typically brief
• Fatigue: Occasionally reported in the first few days of use

Drug Interactions

Formal drug interaction studies have not been conducted. Exercise caution with:

• Anticoagulants (warfarin, DOACs): Theoretical concern due to effects on vascular endothelium; monitor clinically
• Other angiogenic agents or growth-promoting compounds: Potential additive effects on VEGF pathways
• Immunomodulators: Theoretical interaction given BPC-157's anti-inflammatory properties
• NSAIDs: BPC-157 may counteract NSAID-induced GI damage, which is a potential benefit rather than a contraindication

Evidence Summary

BPC-157 has one of the largest preclinical evidence bases of any regenerative peptide, with over 100 published studies spanning gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, neurological, and vascular applications. The consistency of positive findings across diverse injury models and organ systems is notable. However, a critical limitation is the complete absence of published randomized controlled trials in humans. The available evidence is exclusively from animal models (predominantly rat), in vitro studies, and anecdotal clinical reports.

Study quality in the preclinical literature is moderate--most studies include appropriate controls and blinding, but they originate primarily from a single research group (Sikiric et al., University of Zagreb), which introduces potential bias. Independent replication by other groups has been limited.

Regulatory Status

BPC-157 is not FDA-approved for any indication. It is available in the United States through 503A compounding pharmacies on a patient-specific prescription basis. The FDA has not issued specific guidance on BPC-157 compounding, but prescribers should ensure compliance with applicable state and federal compounding regulations. Patients must be informed that this is a non-FDA-approved therapy and that evidence supporting its use is preclinical. Document informed consent thoroughly.