If you've started researching peptide therapy, you've probably run into a wall of cryptic names and numbers — BPC-157, CJC-1295, Ipamorelin — that read more like robot model numbers than health treatments. It can be overwhelming. So in this guide, we're translating the most popular peptides into plain English: what each one actually does, and who tends to benefit.
A quick note before we dive in: this is an overview, not a prescription. The right peptide (and the right dose) depends entirely on your health, your goals, and a proper medical evaluation. At Alpine Health & Wellness in Kalispell, we build every protocol around the individual. With that said, let's meet the lineup.
BPC-157 (short for "Body Protection Compound") is one of the most talked-about peptides in the recovery world. Derived from a protein found in the stomach, it's prized for its potential to support tissue repair and reduce inflammation.
People often explore BPC-157 for:
Athletes and active people in the Flathead Valley are often drawn to BPC-157 for its reputation in supporting faster recovery from the kind of wear and tear that comes with an active mountain lifestyle. Much of the research is preclinical, so we'll always frame expectations honestly.
These two are frequently used together, so we'll cover them as a pair. Both work by gently encouraging your body to release more of its own growth hormone — rather than introducing synthetic growth hormone from outside.
Together, people use this combination to support:
Because they work with your natural rhythms rather than overriding them, this duo is popular among people seeking a more measured approach to growth hormone optimization.
Sermorelin is another peptide in the growth-hormone-supporting family. Like the duo above, it prompts the pituitary to produce more of your own growth hormone. Many patients appreciate it for supporting energy, recovery, sleep, and body composition — often as a foundational, well-tolerated starting point.
You've almost certainly heard about this category in the news. GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide are peptides that influence appetite, blood sugar, and metabolism. Unlike many peptides on this list, semaglutide is FDA-approved and well studied for weight management and type 2 diabetes.
Patients use GLP-1 therapy to:
At Alpine Health, semaglutide therapy is offered as part of a supervised, comprehensive weight-management approach — not as a standalone shortcut. Pairing it with nutrition, movement, and lab-guided care is what produces lasting results.
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) isn't a peptide in the strictest sense, but it travels in the same longevity and wellness circles, so it's worth including. NAD+ is a coenzyme found in every cell, central to energy production and cellular repair — and its levels decline with age.
People turn to NAD+ therapy (often via IV or injection) for:
We offer NAD+ as part of our anti-aging and IV therapy menu, frequently alongside peptide protocols for people focused on longevity.
Here's the honest answer: it depends. The "best" peptide for a marathon runner recovering from a tendon injury is different from the best one for someone focused on weight loss, which is different again from someone whose main goal is better sleep and graceful aging.
That's exactly why peptide therapy shouldn't be a guessing game or a DIY experiment with vials from the internet. The right approach starts with understanding your body — your labs, your history, your goals — and then matching the right tools to the job.
Many of the peptides above are still considered investigational, and not all are FDA-approved for the uses people seek. Quality, sourcing, dosing, and medical supervision aren't optional details — they're the whole game. Used responsibly under proper care, peptides can be a remarkable addition to a wellness plan. Used carelessly, they're a gamble. We firmly believe in the former.
Not sure where to start? Let the team at Alpine Health & Wellness in Kalispell, MT, help you build a personalized peptide protocol around your goals. Book a consultation or call 406-361-7421 today.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Many peptides referenced are investigational and not FDA-approved for all uses. Peptide therapy should be pursued only under qualified medical supervision. Individual results vary.
