# BPC-157

> Evidence tier C — Animal data · Repair · reviewed 2026-11-08
> Source page: https://peptidemeta.com/p/bpc-157/

Also known as: BPC 157, Body Protection Compound-157, Bepecin, PL 14736

## Quick answers

**What is BPC-157?**

A pentadecapeptide derived from human gastric juice that accelerates healing of muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

**How strong is the evidence for BPC-157?**

Tier C (animal data) on the peptidemeta evidence scale. Evidence is predominantly from rodent studies; human data are limited to a small retrospective pilot report, and a registered phase 1 trial posted no results.

**Is BPC-157 FDA-approved?**

No. BPC-157 is not approved by the FDA for any use. FDA has flagged BPC-157 as a bulk substance with potential safety risks for compounding.

**Is BPC-157 banned in sport?**

Yes. BPC-157 is prohibited in sport by the World Anti-Doping Agency under S0 (non-approved substances).

**How does BPC-157 work?**

BPC-157 activates the FAK-paxillin pathway and upregulates VEGFR2 expression, promoting angiogenesis and accelerating tendon-to-bone healing. It modulates the nitric oxide (NO) system and has cytoprotective effects on the gastrointestinal mucosa through interaction with the dopamine and serotonin systems.

**What is known about the safety of BPC-157?**

Generally well-tolerated in animal studies with a wide therapeutic window. No completed human clinical trials to date.

## Key facts

- **Evidence tier:** C (Animal data)
- **FDA:** not approved
- **WADA:** prohibited (S0)
- **Peptide:** yes
- **Routes studied:** Subcutaneous, Intramuscular

## Overview

A pentadecapeptide derived from human gastric juice that accelerates healing of muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Widely studied for its systemic protective effects on the gut and musculoskeletal system.

## Mechanism

BPC-157 activates the FAK-paxillin pathway and upregulates VEGFR2 expression, promoting angiogenesis and accelerating tendon-to-bone healing. It modulates the nitric oxide (NO) system and has cytoprotective effects on the gastrointestinal mucosa through interaction with the dopamine and serotonin systems.

## Effects reported in research

_Reported outcomes, not promises; see the evidence tier._

- Accelerated tendon and ligament repair
- Enhanced gut lining regeneration
- Reduced inflammation at injury sites
- Improved angiogenesis and blood flow

## Safety & unknowns

Generally well-tolerated in animal studies with a wide therapeutic window. No completed human clinical trials to date. Most commonly reported side effects include mild injection site irritation and occasional nausea. Not FDA-approved for any indication. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

## Status sources

- [PubMed: BPC 157 literature](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=BPC+157)
- [ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02637284 (PCO-02, phase 1)](https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02637284)
- [WADA 2026 Prohibited List](https://www.wada-ama.org/en/prohibited-list)

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Educational reference only — not medical advice. No dosing information is published. Tiers rate the strength of published evidence, not effectiveness or safety.