Is BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound 157) absorbed through topical application?

From the Guidelines

BPC-157 is likely poorly absorbed through topical application. The evidence for effective topical absorption of BPC-157 is limited and inconclusive. BPC-157 is a synthetic peptide consisting of 15 amino acids with a relatively large molecular weight (approximately 1419 daltons), which generally makes it difficult for the compound to penetrate the skin barrier effectively. For peptides to be absorbed topically, they typically need to be less than 500 daltons in size or require specialized delivery systems like liposomes or penetration enhancers. Most research on BPC-157's effectiveness involves oral, injectable, or intranasal administration rather than topical application. If you're considering using BPC-157 for healing purposes, injectable or oral forms are likely to be more effective than topical formulations. However, it's essential to note that BPC-157 is not FDA-approved for any medical use, and its safety and efficacy profile remains largely unestablished in controlled human clinical trials 1.

Some key points to consider:

• The molecular weight of BPC-157 is a significant factor in its absorption, as peptides over 500 daltons typically require specialized delivery systems to penetrate the skin effectively.
• The lack of FDA approval and limited clinical trial data on BPC-157's safety and efficacy profile are crucial considerations for its use.
• Alternative administration routes, such as injectable or oral forms, may be more effective for achieving therapeutic benefits with BPC-157.
• The current evidence base for BPC-157's topical absorption is limited, and more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks.

In conclusion, while BPC-157 may have potential therapeutic benefits, its topical absorption is likely limited, and alternative administration routes may be more effective. As with any medication or supplement, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using BPC-157, especially given its limited regulatory approval and clinical trial data.

From the Research

Topical Absorption of BPC-157

• The studies suggest that BPC-157 can be absorbed through topical application, as evidenced by its effectiveness in improving wound healing and attenuating gastric lesions in mice and rats when applied topically 2, 3, 4.
• Topical application of BPC-157 has been shown to improve burn-wound healing, ligament healing, and CO2 laser healing in mice and rats, with significant improvements in parameters such as edema, inflammatory cell numbers, and collagen fiber formation 2, 3, 4.
• The effectiveness of topical BPC-157 application is thought to be due to its ability to stimulate growth factors and influence local factors, leading to improved healing outcomes 2, 3, 4.
• The stability of BPC-157 in human gastric juice and its lack of reported toxicity make it a promising therapeutic agent for wound healing and other applications 5, 6.

Mechanism of Action

• BPC-157 is thought to act by stimulating growth factors and influencing local factors, leading to improved healing outcomes 2, 3, 4.
• It has also been shown to have angiogenic potential, act protectively on endothelium, and prevent and reverse thrombus formation 5.
• BPC-157 may also interact with the NO-system, endothelin, and act as a free radical scavenger, contributing to its therapeutic effects 5.

Therapeutic Applications

• BPC-157 has been shown to be effective in improving wound healing, including burn-wound healing, ligament healing, and CO2 laser healing 2, 3, 4.
• It may also have therapeutic applications in gastrointestinal tract lesions, including esophagitis, stomach, duodenum, intestine, liver, and pancreas lesions 5.
• Additionally, BPC-157 may be effective in preventing and/or attenuating bleeding disorders, arterial and venous thrombosis, and ischemia/reperfusion injuries 6.