Doctors Warn of Dangerous Peptide Trend on Social Media
17 Mar 2026
Social media is playing a big role in promoting these substances as safe and effective.
Tim Jones said many users don’t know what they are actually taking, as these products are not approved or tested.
He reported cases where people experienced side effects like hormone changes, altered libido, and other health issues. In one case, a young person suffered a heart attack after using an online product.
Doctors say these peptides are often made without proper standards and sold through informal channels like WhatsApp links.
James Kelly warned that some drugs, like retatrutide, are still being tested but are already circulating online.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration has also issued warnings about melanotan, linking it to serious health risks including cancer concerns.
Experts are now calling for stronger control of online advertising to protect young people.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/
Source: (RACGP), newsGP