TGA Warns Over Rising Use of Unapproved Peptides Among Young Australians

TGA Warns Over Rising Use of Unapproved Peptides Among Young Australians

11 May 2026

Researchers from the University of Queensland have called for urgent action after seeing a rise in young people buying peptides online for muscle growth, fat loss, recovery, and anti-ageing.

In a new article published in The Lancet, the researchers said the health system needs a stronger and more coordinated response to tackle the issue. They believe GPs should be better trained to recognise peptide use and speak with patients in a supportive and non-judgemental way.

Lead author Dr Timothy Piatkowski said current public health messaging is not keeping up with online peptide markets and social media promotion.

He said many young people are getting information from influencers and online forums instead of medical professionals.

The researchers are especially concerned about boys and young men, who may feel pressure to achieve a lean and muscular body image. They say peptides are often promoted online as being safer than anabolic steroids, even though there is little clinical evidence to support those claims.

Some of the peptides being sold online include BPC-157, CJC-1295, and retatrutide.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) recently issued fresh warnings about importing peptide products through the Personal Importation Scheme. The watchdog said many products being seized are poorly labelled, missing ingredient details, or cannot be properly identified.

TGA head Professor Anthony Lawler warned Australians to be careful when buying peptide products online, especially from overseas websites or social media sellers.

He said people may not know what is inside the products, where they were made, or whether they are sterile, which could put their health at serious risk.

Researchers also said many peptide users do not tell their doctors about using the substances, making it harder for GPs to identify possible risks or side effects.

Because of this, they are calling for more GP training, better patient education resources, and improved public health messaging aimed at young people.

https://www1.racgp.org.au/

Source: newsGP / The Lancet / TGA
 
 

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