Health

Are peptides the fountain of youth? Doctors warn hype may outpace science

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2 months ago

February 9, 2026

Are peptides the fountain of youth? Doctors warn hype may outpace science

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Peptide therapy has gained popularity as a potential health and longevity booster, but experts are warning of cautions and limitations.

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as messengers involved in processes like metabolism, growth and immune function, according to Cleveland Clinic.

Some peptides have shown potential in helping with skin health, metabolism, muscle recovery and immunity, although research is limited, experts say.

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“‘Peptides’ is a broad umbrella that includes everything from well-studied, FDA-approved therapies to experimental compounds marketed for anti-aging with limited human data,” Dr. Brad Younggren, a board-certified physician and CEO and co-founder of Circulate Health in Seattle, Washington, told Fox News Digital.

Injectable GLP-1 diabetes and weight-loss drugs are a common form of peptides, he noted.

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as messengers involved in processes like metabolism, growth and immune function. (iStock)

“Most people now more widely understand the positive impact this peptide can have on human healthspan,” Younggren said. “Peptides have broad targets across human physiology, and each one must be explored independently.”

Other common types of peptides help with growth hormone production, healing and tissue repair, skin and hair health, immune regulation, and cardiovascular and blood pressure regulation.

Are peptides the fountain of youth?

Despite some claims of peptides extending lifespan, Younggren cautioned that no longevity therapy or treatment should be considered a “fountain of youth.”

“The science is promising in specific areas, but the category as a whole is not a single, proven longevity solution,” he said. “Peptides may be useful tools in select clinical contexts, but claims of universal rejuvenation are ahead of the evidence.”

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Ben Perez, the biomedical technology specialist at Pure Tested Peptides in Pennsylvania, noted that some people have seen benefits in recovery, immunity and tissue repair, while others have reported positive outcomes related to sleep, lean body mass and recovery time.

However, while peptides show promise, he said some suggested results may be “overly optimistic.”

Despite some claims of peptides extending lifespan, one expert cautioned that no longevity therapy or treatment should be considered a “fountain of youth.” (iStock)

“Some are anti-aging related and assist with cellular repair, release of growth hormones and metabolic functions,” Perez, who oversees quality control of research peptides, told Fox News Digital. “However, the results can be inconsistent, and the assertions are usually greater than the supportive research.”

Side effects

Each type of peptide can be associated with its own potential side effects, experts say.

Growth hormone–related therapies, particularly those that act on the growth hormone (GH)–IGF-1 axis, can affect multiple hormone pathways and carry risks such as fluid retention, insulin resistance, headaches and joint symptoms, as well as changes in blood pressure or lipid levels, according to Dr. Anant Vinjamoori, M.D., a Harvard-trained physician and chief longevity officer at Superpower.

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“The pathways in the study of peptides are complex and can lead to imbalances in the hormones of the body,” Perez said. “Other negative outcomes can be localized inflammation at the injection site and other reactions.”

“Endocrine disorders, autoimmune disorders and history of cancer are further reasons to be more careful.”

“Selling unproven, miracle-promising or supplement-peddling products with little accountability or third-party testing is a dangerous red flag.”

The most reliable way to receive peptide therapy is through injection, according to Vinjamoori, as some oral forms can be “under-absorbed” or may rely on added ingredients that can cause side effects.

“‘Safe’ is less about the route and more about the molecule, dose, purity and monitoring,” he told Fox News Digital.

“Most peptides have an extremely strong track safety record based on the data we do have — but there is still much that we do not know.”

Approval and regulation

Some peptides are FDA-approved for specific conditions, including GLP-1s and growth-hormone stimulators. These may be prescribed off-label in some contexts, although risks and benefits vary and evidence may be limited, according to experts.

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There are also some peptides that are not FDA-approved. “Many ‘fitness’ peptides discussed online are in early clinical phases or used only in research settings,” Vinjamoori noted.

“[Peptides] should be approached as a combination of lifestyle measures that contribute to better healthspan,” one expert said. (iStock)

Perez warned that peptides have little to no regulation in many countries, which means online vendors may sell fake, poor-quality or dangerous products.

“Selling unproven, miracle-promising or supplement-peddling products with little accountability or third-party testing is a dangerous red flag,” he said.

Starting safely

For those considering peptides, Vinjamoori recommends watching out for the following red flags.

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Sourcing issues: Non-pharmacy “research chemicals,” lack of third-party testing or unclear labeling
Overblown claims: Promises of rapid muscle gain or fat loss with no training changes
Too many compounds: Stacking multiple substances without clear targets or bloodwork
Lack of oversight: No clinician, baseline labs, or plan for cycling or stopping

“The most effective longevity care is proactive, personalized, and grounded in biomarkers and scientific evidence,” Younggren added. “It should be approached as a combination of lifestyle measures that contribute to better healthspan.”

Anyone interested in peptides should consult a physician to ensure that they receive a safe product and that it is used appropriately. (iStock)

Perez emphasized the importance of starting conservatively. “Understand the science, know the source and get medical guidance,” he advised. “Peptide therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all; it’s nuanced and still evolving.”

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While peptides may address issues that fall outside the reach of conventional medicine, Perez said, the supporting clinical data is still being developed.

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“Excessive use can lead to a decrease in their therapeutic effects and may cause adverse reactions, so more is not necessarily better,” he cautioned.

Anyone interested in peptides should consult with a physician to ensure that they receive a safe product and that it is used appropriately.

Melissa Rudy is senior health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to melissa.rudy@fox.com.

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Health

Dementia risk signals could lie in simple blood pressure readings, researchers say

Published

11 hours ago

March 27, 2026

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Dementia risk signals could lie in simple blood pressure readings, researchers say

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Simple measurements taken during routine blood pressure checks could predict dementia risk years before symptoms appear.

That’s according to new research presented this week at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session in Louisiana.

The findings draw on two studies led by researchers at Georgetown University, which suggest that monitoring how blood vessels age and stiffen over time can provide a window into future cognitive health.

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Data shows rates of dementia and aging-related cognitive decline are expected to increase as populations age, and half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure (hypertension).

Scientists believe that efforts to better address hypertension, a key contributor to heart disease and a risk factor for dementia, could affect both cardiac and brain health.

Data shows rates of dementia and aging-related cognitive decline are expected to increase as populations age. Meanwhile, half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure. (iStock)

“Blood pressure management isn’t just about preventing heart attacks and strokes; it may also be one of the most actionable strategies for preserving cognitive health,” Dr. Newton Nyirenda, the study’s lead author and an epidemiologist at Georgetown University in Washington, said in a press release.

The research focused on two metrics, the pulse pressure-heart rate index and estimated pulse wave velocity. Both were calculated using data collected during standard doctor visits, such as heart rate, age and blood pressure.

“Blood pressure management isn’t just about preventing heart attacks and strokes; it may also be one of the most actionable strategies for preserving cognitive health.”

Researchers examined five years of data patterns for more than 8,500 people in the SPRINT trial, a large study of adults 50 years and older with hypertension. In the follow-up, 323 of the participants developed probable dementia.

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In one study, the team found the pulse pressure-heart rate index was a strong independent predictor of dementia risk in adults over 50. For participants under 65, every one-unit increase was associated with a 76% higher risk of developing dementia.

For participants under 65, an increase in the pulse pressure-heart rate index was associated with a 76% higher risk of developing dementia. (iStock)

The second study found that adults with consistently elevated or rapidly increasing pulse wave velocity were more likely to develop dementia than those with stable velocity, even after accounting for factors like smoking, gender and cardiovascular history.

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“Our findings suggest that vascular aging patterns may provide meaningful insight into future dementia risk,” said Nyirenda. “This reinforces the idea that managing vascular health earlier in life may influence long-term brain health.”

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The team emphasized that clinicians should tailor risk assessments and treatment strategies to the individual.

Further studies are needed to confirm these parameters and determine whether changing vascular aging trajectories reduces dementia risk. (iStock)

“You don’t want to wait until a patient starts manifesting cognitive decline before you act,” said senior study author Sula Mazimba, an associate professor at the University of Virginia.

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Researchers noted the study could not establish causation. Other limitations included the fact that participants already had hypertension and elevated cardiovascular risk, meaning the findings may not apply to people without those conditions.

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Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and to determine whether improving blood vessel health over time could reduce dementia risk.

Khloe Quill is a lifestyle production assistant with Fox News Digital. She and the lifestyle team cover a range of story topics including food and drink, travel, and health.

Health

Everything You Need To Know About Zepbound for Weight Loss, Including Costs

Published

22 hours ago

March 26, 2026

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Everything You Need To Know About Zepbound for Weight Loss, Including Costs

What Is Zepbound? Weight-Loss Benefits, Costs and Dosage

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Health

‘Gas station heroin’ banned in another state amid nationwide crackdowns

Published

23 hours ago

March 26, 2026

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‘Gas station heroin’ banned in another state amid nationwide crackdowns

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A dangerous substance dubbed “gas station heroin” continues to alarm medical professionals, with more states making moves to restrict or ban tianeptine.

Fourteen states have officially classified the tricyclic antidepressant as a Schedule I controlled substance.

Connecticut is the latest state to crack down, officially banning the sale and use of the substance starting on Wednesday.

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Tianeptine, which can produce euphoria in higher doses, can be more potent than morphine and addictive opioids, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Some countries have taken steps to restrict how tianeptine is prescribed or dispensed, and have even revised the labels to warn people of its potential addictive qualities.

Tianeptine can be more potent than morphine and addictive opioids. (iStock)

Misuse of tianeptine can cause severe adverse health effects, including respiratory depression, severe sedation and death, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Some companies market the drug as an aid for pain, anxiety and depression, or as a means of improving mental alertness in a pill, powder, salt or liquid form.

The products are typically sold at convenience stores, gas stations, vape shops and online retailers, and go by names like Tianaa, ZaZa, Neptune’s Fix, Pegasus and TD Red.

Connecticut is the 15th state to classify tianeptine as a Schedule I controlled substance. (Markus Scholz/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Connecticut Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz said in a press release that the schedule change is a necessary step to combat addiction.

“With false marketing that led consumers to believe these are safe products, and with candy-like flavor options, these substances posed a clear threat to those battling substance-use disorder and our youngest residents,” she added.

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The Nutmeg State also added Mitragyna speciosa (kratom), 7-hydroxymitragynine, Bromazolam, Flubromazolam, Nitazenes and Phenibut to the schedule classification.

Earlier this month, FDA Commissioner Martin Makary penned a letter sounding the alarm on what he called a “dangerous and growing health trend.”

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“I am very concerned,” Makary wrote. “I want the public to be especially aware of this dangerous product and the serious and continuing risk it poses to America’s youth.”

New York-based Robert Schwaner, M.D., vice chair of system clinical affairs at Stony Brook Emergency Medicine, told Fox News Digital that the FDA has never approved tianeptine as a dietary supplement.

“As with heroin and other opioids, significant mu-opioid receptor stimulation ultimately results in a loss of respiratory drive and subsequent cardiac arrest.” (Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office)

“The euphoria at low doses is primarily due to increased serotonergic activity from its serotonin reuptake effects. With increasing doses, the mu-opioid receptor stimulation may become lethal,” said Schwaner. “As with heroin and other opioids, significant mu-opioid receptor stimulation ultimately results in a loss of respiratory drive and subsequent cardiac arrest.”

Schwaner said he believes the substance requires national regulation due to its addictive qualities.

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“Acting at the same receptor as opioids, tianeptine has the potential for an individual to develop tolerance, subsequent dependence and withdrawal from its use,” he cautioned.

Fox News Digital reached out to the FDA for comment.

Fox News Digital’s Greg Wehner and Melissa Rudy contributed to this report.

Ashley J. DiMella is a lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital.