Reference Guide

Peptide Glossary

A comprehensive dictionary of peptide terminology. The PeptIQ app includes an expanded in-app glossary and this page extends the reference with linked educational context.

A

Amino Acid

Organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of peptides and proteins. There are 20 standard amino acids that combine to form different peptide chains.

B

Bacteriostatic Water

Sterile water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a preservative. Used for reconstituting peptides because it prevents bacterial growth, allowing multi-dose vial use.

Bioavailability

The proportion of a substance that enters circulation when introduced into the body and is able to have an active effect. Subcutaneous injection typically provides high bioavailability for peptides.

BPC-157

Body Protection Compound-157, a pentadecapeptide (15 amino acids) derived from human gastric juice. Researched for its potential tissue healing and protective properties.

C

CJC-1295

A synthetic analogue of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). Available with or without DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) which extends its half-life.

D

DAC (Drug Affinity Complex)

A modification added to certain peptides that significantly extends their half-life by binding to albumin in the bloodstream.

Desensitization

A reduction in receptor sensitivity that can occur with continuous use of certain peptides. Often addressed through cycling protocols.

G

GH Secretagogue

Compounds that stimulate the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. Includes peptides like Ipamorelin, GHRP-2, GHRP-6, and Sermorelin.

GHRH (Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone)

A hormone released by the hypothalamus that stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone. Synthetic analogues like Sermorelin mimic this hormone.

GHRP (Growth Hormone-Releasing Peptide)

A class of synthetic peptides that stimulate growth hormone release through the ghrelin receptor. Includes GHRP-2 and GHRP-6.

H

Half-Life

The time required for the concentration of a peptide in the body to decrease by half. Important for determining dosing frequency.

I

Ipamorelin

A selective growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates GH release with minimal effect on cortisol or prolactin. Popular for its clean side effect profile.

L

Lyophilization

The freeze-drying process used to preserve peptides. Lyophilized peptides appear as a powder or cake in the vial and require reconstitution before use.

M

Melanotan II

A synthetic analogue of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone. Researched for its effects on skin pigmentation and other physiological processes.

P

Peptide Bond

The chemical bond that links amino acids together in a peptide chain. Formed through a dehydration synthesis reaction between the carboxyl group of one amino acid and the amino group of another.

Peptide Stacking

The practice of using multiple peptides simultaneously to achieve synergistic effects. Requires careful consideration of timing and compatibility.

PT-141 (Bremelanotide)

A synthetic peptide that acts on melanocortin receptors. Researched for its effects on sexual function and libido enhancement.

R

Reconstitution

The process of adding bacteriostatic water to lyophilized (freeze-dried) peptide powder to create an injectable solution.

S

Semaglutide

A GLP-1 receptor agonist peptide used for weight management and blood sugar control. Available as both injectable and oral formulations.

Sermorelin

A synthetic analogue of the first 29 amino acids of human GHRH. Used to stimulate natural growth hormone production.

Subcutaneous Injection

Injection into the fatty tissue layer beneath the skin. The most common administration method for peptides, typically in the abdomen, thigh, or deltoid area.

T

TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4)

A synthetic version of a naturally occurring peptide present in almost all human and animal cells. Researched for tissue repair and anti-inflammatory properties.

Tesamorelin

A synthetic form of growth hormone-releasing hormone approved for reducing abdominal fat in certain conditions.

Tirzepatide

A dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist peptide. Represents a newer class of weight management peptides with enhanced efficacy.

Access Our Peptide Library

The PeptIQ app includes detailed peptide profiles with dosing guidance, source-linked research references, and safety information.

Download PeptIQ