Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the same building blocks as proteins, but smaller and more targeted in their biological function. The human body produces thousands of peptides naturally, using them as precise signaling molecules that regulate everything from growth hormone release to cellular repair, metabolism, and neurological function.
Peptide therapy introduces specific, clinician-selected sequences that interact with targeted receptors to amplify, restore, or support physiological processes. Unlike hormones, which operate broadly, peptides communicate specific instructions to specific cells and tissues.
At Arbour Longevity, every peptide protocol is developed based on your individual labs, health history, and goals. Protocols are sourced from regulated compounding pharmacies and administered under ongoing clinical supervision, with full transparency about the regulatory status of every compound before any prescription is written.
◆ What Peptides Are
Short amino acid chains · Natural signaling molecules · Receptor-specific · Targeted biological action
◆ Administration
Subcutaneous injection, oral/sublingual, nasal spray, topical: protocol-dependent
◆ Sourcing Standard
Pharmaceutical-grade · Regulated compounding pharmacies · Subject to current FDA regulations
◆ Pricing & Availability
All pricing and current compound availability discussed at consultation, subject to regulatory status at time of prescribing
Regulatory status key: applied to every compound below
Every Arbour Longevity peptide protocol is clinician-designed around a specific physiological objective. All protocols are subject to current FDA compounding regulations and compound availability at the time of prescribing. Pricing and specific compound availability are discussed at the consultation.
Growth Hormone · Recovery · Sleep
CJC-1295 · Ipamorelin · Sermorelin
Restore what time has taken from your GH axis, naturally.
Growth hormone secretagogues may stimulate your pituitary to produce and release growth hormone through your body's own pathways, supporting recovery, body composition, sleep quality, and metabolic function that tends to decline with age.
Metabolic · Fat Loss · Body Composition
Tirzepatide · Retatrutide · Tesamorelin
Advanced metabolic medicine for body composition and fat loss.
GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist therapy represents the current frontier of metabolic medicine. Tirzepatide is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and obesity. Retatrutide is an investigational triple agonist in Phase 3 trials. Tesamorelin supports visceral fat reduction.
Regenerative · Healing · Recovery
BPC-157 · TB-500 · GHK-Cu
Supporting tissue repair and recovery at the cellular level.
BPC-157 and TB-500 are among the most studied regenerative peptides in research settings, with data suggesting support for tissue repair, inflammation modulation, and musculoskeletal recovery. GHK-Cu supports skin and connective tissue regeneration. All are investigational compounds, discussed fully at consultation.
Sexual Health · Libido · Vitality
PT-141 (Bremelanotide) · Kisspeptin
Addressing desire and vitality at the neurological and hormonal level.
PT-141 is FDA-approved for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women and used off-label in men. Kisspeptin supports the hypothalamic signaling cascade upstream of reproductive hormones, addressing sexual health from the biology of desire, not just its downstream effects.
Longevity · Cellular Health · Anti-Aging
MOTS-c · Epithalon · NAD+
Supporting the biological pathways that determine how we age.
Longevity peptides target mitochondrial function, telomere biology, and cellular energy, the mechanisms that research has identified as central to biological aging. MOTS-c activates AMPK metabolic pathways. Epithalon may support telomerase activity. NAD+ restores the coenzyme depleted in every aging cell.
Cognitive · Focus · Neuroprotection
Selank · Semax
Supporting clarity, resilience, and neurological health by design.
Selank and Semax are neuropeptides derived from endogenous proteins, studied for their potential to modulate anxiety, support cognitive function, and provide neuroprotective effects, without the sedation or dependency risks associated with conventional anxiolytics. Both are investigational in the United States.
The Arbour Longevity Peptide Protocol Process
Who May Benefit
Candidacy for every protocol is assessed individually at consultation. No protocol is prescribed without a complete clinical evaluation and informed consent.
Explore by Protocol Category
Frequently Asked Questions
Peptide therapy uses short chains of amino acids that act as precise signaling molecules, directing specific physiological processes, including hormone production, cellular repair, metabolism, recovery, and longevity. At Arbour Longevity, every protocol is clinician-designed based on comprehensive labs and health history, and administered under licensed clinician supervision with full regulatory disclosure.
Regulatory status varies by compound. Tirzepatide is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and obesity. PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is FDA-approved for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in premenopausal women. Other compounds are used off-label or are investigational. At Arbour Longevity, the regulatory status of every compound is disclosed in full at consultation, and written informed consent is completed before any protocol begins. Availability of specific compounds may change based on current FDA regulations.
When prescribed and supervised by a licensed clinician following a comprehensive evaluation, peptide therapy has an established safety profile for appropriate candidates. At Arbour Longevity, all protocols require baseline labs, a complete health intake, and ongoing monitoring. Every patient receives full informed consent documentation including the regulatory status and known risk profile of each compound in their protocol.
Arbour Longevity in Ann Arbor, Dexter offers clinician-supervised peptide therapy protocols across six categories: growth hormone support, metabolic and weight loss, regenerative and healing, sexual health, longevity, and cognitive performance. All compounds are sourced from regulated compounding pharmacies. We serve Ann Arbor, Dexter, Ypsilanti, Saline, Plymouth, Canton, and greater Southeast Michigan.
Hormone therapy replaces or supplements hormones directly, testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone. Peptide therapy signals your body to produce hormones and other compounds more efficiently, working upstream of the hormone itself. Many patients benefit from both as part of a comprehensive longevity protocol: hormones restore deficient levels while peptides may optimize the signaling environment that makes hormone therapy more effective.
Results vary by compound, indication, and individual patient response. Growth hormone secretagogues may show sleep and recovery improvements within 2–4 weeks, with body composition changes typically at 8–12 weeks. Tirzepatide generally produces measurable metabolic changes within 4 weeks. Regenerative peptides may show tissue response within 2–6 weeks. Full protocol outcomes are assessed at the 3-month clinical review with follow-up labs. Individual results vary.
"The growth hormone protocol changed my sleep within two weeks. Recovering from training faster than I was in my 30s. The clinical process, labs first, everything explained, made me trust the whole program."
"I appreciated that they explained every compound's FDA status before we started anything. That transparency is what sold me. The results spoke for themselves, 26 lbs in 4 months."
"Six months of PT had plateaued my shoulder. The regenerative peptide protocol at Arbour Longevity moved the needle in 6 weeks. Comprehensive informed consent, clear expectations, real results."
Peptide Therapy · Ann Arbor, Dexter
Schedule a peptide therapy consultation at Arbour Longevity. We review your labs, health history, and goals, then design a protocol that is specific to you, fully disclosed, and appropriately supervised.
Clinician-led longevity practice · Ann Arbor, Dexter, Dexter, Michigan
Medical, Regulatory & Legal Disclosure
General: The information presented on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Peptide therapy protocols are individualized medical treatments that require comprehensive clinical evaluation, baseline laboratory testing, and ongoing supervision by a licensed healthcare provider. Individual results vary. Not all individuals are appropriate candidates for peptide therapy.
FDA Regulatory Status: Peptide therapies vary in their FDA regulatory status. Tirzepatide is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro®) and obesity (Zepbound®); compounded versions are prescribed under applicable compounding pharmacy regulations. PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is FDA-approved as Vyleesi® for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women; use in men or for other indications constitutes off-label prescribing. Retatrutide is an investigational compound currently in Phase 3 clinical trials and has not received FDA approval for any indication. BPC-157, TB-500, CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, MOTS-c, Epithalon, GHK-Cu, Kisspeptin, Selank, and Semax are investigational compounds that are not FDA-approved and whose compounding availability is subject to current FDA bulk drug substances regulations. Availability of specific compounds may change based on evolving regulatory guidance.
Informed Consent: Written informed consent is required for all peptide protocols at Arbour Longevity. Informed consent documentation includes the FDA regulatory status of each compound, available clinical evidence (including the level and quality of that evidence), known and potential risks, available alternatives, and the investigational nature of applicable compounds. No prescription is issued without completed informed consent.
Compounding: Where applicable, peptide compounds are sourced from 503A or 503B registered compounding pharmacies in compliance with applicable federal and state regulations in effect at the time of prescribing. Arbour Longevity does not guarantee the ongoing availability of any specific compound, as availability is subject to FDA regulatory determinations that may change without notice.
No Guarantee of Results: Clinical outcomes described on this website represent potential benefits based on available research and clinical experience. No guarantee of specific results is expressed or implied. Peptide therapy is not a substitute for conventional medical treatment where such treatment is indicated.
Most Commonly Prescribed GH Stack
GHRH Analogue + Selective Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide
The most commonly prescribed growth hormone peptide combination. CJC-1295 is a GHRH analogue that may extend the GH-releasing hormone signal. Ipamorelin is a selective GHRP that may stimulate GH release without the cortisol and prolactin elevations associated with older peptides in this class. Together they may produce an amplified, natural-pattern GH pulse, supporting recovery, body composition, and sleep quality.
Proposed mechanism: CJC-1295 binds GHRH receptors to extend GH-releasing signal · Ipamorelin binds ghrelin receptors to selectively amplify GH pulse · Combined effect may support sustained natural GH secretion.
Typical Administration
Subcutaneous injection · 5 nights per week · Before sleep · Patient self-administered following training
Entry GH Protocol
GHRH 1-29 Analogue
Sermorelin is the first 29 amino acids of endogenous GHRH, a synthetic analogue that may stimulate the pituitary to produce and release growth hormone through the body's own feedback mechanisms. Often used as an introductory GH peptide protocol. Its action is subject to natural negative feedback, which limits the potential for axis suppression.
Proposed mechanism: Binds GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotroph cells · May stimulate GH synthesis and release through endogenous pathways · Subject to normal negative feedback regulation.
Typical Administration
Subcutaneous injection · Nightly · Patient self-administered
Why not inject HGH directly? Exogenous human growth hormone bypasses the pituitary entirely, suppressing your body's own GH production over time. Growth hormone secretagogues work upstream through your body's own feedback mechanisms. This difference has meaningful clinical and safety implications that are discussed in detail at consultation.
GH Peptides · Ann Arbor, Dexter
Growth hormone peptide protocols begin with an IGF-1 and GH marker review. Schedule a consultation: we review your baseline data and design the protocol appropriate for your age, health status, and goals.
Medical, Regulatory & Legal Disclosure
General: The information presented on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Peptide therapy protocols are individualized medical treatments that require comprehensive clinical evaluation, baseline laboratory testing, and ongoing supervision by a licensed healthcare provider. Individual results vary. Not all individuals are appropriate candidates for peptide therapy.
FDA Regulatory Status: Peptide therapies vary in their FDA regulatory status. Tirzepatide is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro®) and obesity (Zepbound®); compounded versions are prescribed under applicable compounding pharmacy regulations. PT-141 (Bremelanotide) is FDA-approved as Vyleesi® for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women; use in men or for other indications constitutes off-label prescribing. Retatrutide is an investigational compound currently in Phase 3 clinical trials and has not received FDA approval for any indication. BPC-157, TB-500, CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, MOTS-c, Epithalon, GHK-Cu, Kisspeptin, Selank, and Semax are investigational compounds that are not FDA-approved and whose compounding availability is subject to current FDA bulk drug substances regulations. Availability of specific compounds may change based on evolving regulatory guidance.
Informed Consent: Written informed consent is required for all peptide protocols at Arbour Longevity. Informed consent documentation includes the FDA regulatory status of each compound, available clinical evidence (including the level and quality of that evidence), known and potential risks, available alternatives, and the investigational nature of applicable compounds. No prescription is issued without completed informed consent.
Compounding: Where applicable, peptide compounds are sourced from 503A or 503B registered compounding pharmacies in compliance with applicable federal and state regulations in effect at the time of prescribing. Arbour Longevity does not guarantee the ongoing availability of any specific compound, as availability is subject to FDA regulatory determinations that may change without notice.
No Guarantee of Results: Clinical outcomes described on this website represent potential benefits based on available research and clinical experience. No guarantee of specific results is expressed or implied. Peptide therapy is not a substitute for conventional medical treatment where such treatment is indicated.
GLP-1 / GIP Dual Agonist · Most Studied
Mounjaro® (T2D) · Zepbound® (Obesity) · Compounded versions available
Tirzepatide is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and obesity and represents the current gold standard in GLP-1 class therapy. Its dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonism may produce superior metabolic outcomes compared to GLP-1 monotherapy, including appetite modulation, improved insulin sensitivity, and meaningful body weight reduction. Phase 3 trial data demonstrated significant weight loss outcomes at maximum therapeutic doses.
Mechanism: Activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors · Reduces appetite · Improves glucose metabolism · Supports adipose tissue energy utilization.
Typical Administration
Subcutaneous injection · Weekly · Titrated from starting dose under clinician supervision
GLP-1 / GIP / Glucagon Triple Agonist · Investigational
Triple Agonist · Investigational · Phase 3
Retatrutide adds glucagon receptor agonism to the dual GLP-1/GIP mechanism, potentially increasing energy expenditure beyond appetite suppression. Phase 2 trial data demonstrated notable body weight reduction outcomes. Currently in Phase 3 trials. This compound is investigational and has not received FDA approval for any indication. Full informed consent and clinical evaluation are required before consideration.
Proposed mechanism: Triple agonism of GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors · May increase energy expenditure via glucagon co-activation in addition to appetite modulation.
Typical Administration
Subcutaneous injection · Weekly · Clinician-supervised titration protocol required
Visceral Fat · Body Composition
GHRH Analogue · Egrifta® · Visceral Adipose Targeting
Tesamorelin is FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy and used off-label in metabolic health programs for its visceral adipose tissue reduction effect. It may selectively target the metabolically active visceral fat surrounding organs that contributes to insulin resistance and cardiovascular risk, a distinct mechanism from GLP-1 agonists.
Typical Administration
Subcutaneous injection · Daily · Patient self-administered
Visceral Fat · Body Composition
GLP-1 Agonist + Tesamorelin + Hormone Optimization
For patients seeking comprehensive body composition transformation, combining a GLP-1 agonist (Tirzepatide or Retatrutide) with Tesamorelin for visceral fat, alongside hormone optimization to ensure testosterone, thyroid, and cortisol are not limiting metabolic response. The specific compounds included are determined at consultation based on individual clinical appropriateness and current regulatory availability.
Weight Loss Peptides · Ann Arbor, Dexter
Schedule a metabolic consultation at Arbour Longevity. We review your labs, metabolic history, and prescribe the protocol that is clinically appropriate, with full transparency about what each compound is, what the evidence shows, and what the regulatory status means for you.
Body Protection Compound · Versatile Regenerative Research Peptide
Body Protection Compound-157 · Pentadecapeptide
BPC-157 is a synthetic peptide derived from a protein found in gastric juice. Preclinical research data suggests potential activity across a range of tissue types, including tendon, ligament, muscle, gut, and vascular tissue. Research has investigated its potential role in angiogenesis, inflammation modulation, and tissue repair. Clinical human data remains limited. This compound is investigational, and its compounding availability is subject to current FDA regulations.
Proposed research mechanisms: Potential upregulation of growth hormone receptors in tendon fibroblasts · Possible promotion of angiogenic signaling · Anti-inflammatory activity in multiple models. Evidence primarily preclinical.
Typical Administration
Subcutaneous injection (systemic) or oral formulation (GI-specific) · Daily
Thymosin Beta-4 Analogue · Systemic Repair Research
Thymosin Beta-4 Active Fragment · Systemic Regenerative Peptide
TB-500 is the active fragment of Thymosin Beta-4, a protein involved in actin regulation, cell migration, and wound healing biology. Research data suggests potential for tissue repair support, particularly in musculoskeletal and vascular contexts. Often used in combination with BPC-157 in clinical protocols. Evidence is primarily preclinical, with limited human data.
Typical Administration
Subcutaneous injection · Loading phase 2x weekly, maintenance weekly
Copper Tripeptide · Aesthetic & Tissue Research
Copper Tripeptide-1 · Arbour Longevity Glow Protocol
GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide studied for its potential roles in collagen synthesis stimulation, tissue remodeling, and antioxidant activity. At Arbour Longevity, it anchors the Glow Protocol, used systemically and topically in conjunction with aesthetic PRP recovery support and skin health programs. Research suggests a range of potential regenerative and anti-aging mechanisms, primarily in vitro and preclinical models.
Typical Administration
Subcutaneous injection (systemic) or topical application · Combined protocols available
Combination Protocol · Research-Based Regenerative Stack
Combined Regenerative Protocol · Subject to Compound Availability
BPC-157 and TB-500 are frequently combined in clinical protocols for their complementary proposed mechanisms. This combination is often considered alongside PRP joint therapy at Arbour Longevity, where peptides may optimize the biological environment while PRP delivers concentrated growth factors directly to the target tissue. All compound availability is subject to current FDA regulations, confirmed at consultation.
Regenerative Peptides · Ann Arbor, Dexter
Schedule a regenerative consultation. We review your injury history, current evidence for relevant compounds, regulatory status, and whether regenerative peptides, combined with PRP therapy, represent an appropriate option for your situation.
Melanocortin Receptor Agonist · CNS-Acting
Bremelanotide · Vyleesi® · FDA-Approved in Women · Off-Label in Men
PT-141 is the only sexual health peptide that works through the central nervous system, specifically the melanocortin receptors that govern sexual desire and arousal in the hypothalamus. It is FDA-approved as Vyleesi® for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. It is used off-label in men and for other indications, which is fully disclosed at consultation. Its CNS mechanism of action may make it effective in patients where hormone therapy and vascular approaches have been insufficient.
Mechanism: Activates MC3R and MC4R receptors in the hypothalamus · Influences neurological pathways governing sexual motivation and arousal · Distinct from vascular mechanism of PDE5 inhibitors.
Typical Administration
Subcutaneous injection · As needed, approximately 45 minutes before intended use · Low-dose daily protocol also available
Hypothalamic Neuropeptide · Upstream Hormone Signaling
KISS1 Neuropeptide · GnRH Pulse Stimulator
Kisspeptin is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that sits at the top of the reproductive hormone cascade, stimulating GnRH release, which drives LH and FSH, which in turn regulate testosterone and estrogen production. For patients with centrally suppressed hormone signaling, kisspeptin therapy may address the problem upstream, supporting the biological signaling that initiates the entire reproductive hormone axis. It is investigational in the US and is fully disclosed at consultation.
Proposed mechanism: Activates KNDy neurons in the hypothalamus · May stimulate pulsatile GnRH release · Potential to support endogenous sex hormone production signaling.
Typical Administration
Subcutaneous injection · Protocol design varies by indication and gender
Sexual Health Peptides · Ann Arbor, Dexter
Sexual health consultations at Arbour Longevity are thorough, confidential, and clinically grounded. We assess the full picture, including hormones, neurological factors, and their interaction, and recommend the protocol that is appropriate, evidence-supported, and fully disclosed.
Mitochondrial Peptide · AMPK Pathway Research
Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA Type-C · Mitokinea
MOTS-c is a mitochondria-encoded peptide that functions as a mitokine, a signaling molecule produced by mitochondria that regulates metabolic homeostasis. Research has investigated its potential to activate AMPK, support insulin sensitivity, and influence metabolic efficiency and exercise performance. It represents a relatively novel area of longevity biology with promising but still-emerging evidence. All use is investigational.
Proposed research mechanisms: AMPK activation · Potential insulin sensitization · Influence on mitochondrial function and reactive oxygen species · Metabolic gene expression modulation.
Typical Administration
Subcutaneous injection · Weekly or bi-weekly · Clinician-designed cycling protocol
Pineal Peptide · Telomere Biology Research
Epithalamin · Tetrapeptide · Pineal Gland Peptide
Epithalon is a synthetic tetrapeptide derived from the pineal gland extract Epithalamin. Research has investigated its potential to stimulate telomerase activity, an area of significant interest in longevity biology. Additional research areas include melatonin regulation, circadian biology support, and antioxidant properties. Evidence is primarily from older Soviet-era research and limited modern studies. Human clinical data remains limited.
Investigational compound. Not FDA-approved. Limited human clinical evidence available, disclosed fully at consultation. Compounding availability is subject to current regulations.
Typical Administration
Subcutaneous injection · Cyclical protocol, typically a 10-day course, 2–4 times per year
Cellular Energy Coenzyme · Longevity Protocol Anchor
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide · IV or Subcutaneous
NAD+ is not technically a peptide, but it anchors every serious longevity protocol. It is the coenzyme present in every living cell, essential for cellular energy production, DNA repair, and sirtuin activation. NAD+ levels decline significantly with age, and restoration via IV infusion or subcutaneous injection achieves systemic concentrations that oral precursors cannot match. At Arbour Longevity, NAD+ is available as an IV infusion (loading series) or subcutaneous injection for maintenance protocols, with full safety and evidence disclosure.
Typical Administration
IV infusion, loading series for fastest systemic delivery · Subcutaneous injection, maintenance protocols
Longevity Peptides · Ann Arbor, Dexter
Arbour Longevity's longevity peptide protocols are designed for patients who want to engage with the current frontier of aging biology research, with full transparency about what the evidence shows, what remains unknown, and what it means to participate in investigational protocols under clinical supervision.
Anxiolytic Neuropeptide · GABA Modulation Research
Tuftsin Analogue · Heptapeptide · Developed at IMGB Moscow
Selank is a synthetic analogue of the endogenous immunopeptide Tuftsin, developed by the Institute of Molecular Genetics in Russia. Research data, primarily from Russian clinical studies, suggests potential anxiolytic, nootropic, and immune-modulating properties without the sedation or dependence associated with benzodiazepines. It is not FDA-approved in the United States. Compounding availability is subject to current regulations and is fully discussed at consultation.
Proposed mechanisms: GABA-A receptor sensitivity modulation · Serotonin and dopamine turnover regulation · Possible BDNF upregulation · Anti-anxiety effects in research models without sedation.
Typical Administration
Nasal spray (primary) or subcutaneous injection · Daily protocol
Cognitive Enhancer · BDNF Stimulation Research
ACTH 4-7 Pro-Gly-Pro Analogue · Nootropic Neuropeptide
Semax is an analogue of ACTH 4–7 developed for cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection research. Studies have investigated its potential to upregulate BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), which is involved in neuronal growth, learning, and synaptic plasticity, making it of interest for memory support and cognitive resilience. Research is primarily from Eastern European studies, with limited randomized controlled trial data. It is investigational in the United States.
Proposed mechanisms: BDNF and NGF expression upregulation · Dopaminergic and serotonergic activity enhancement · Neuroprotective properties in research models.
Typical Administration
Nasal spray (primary) · Daily or cycling protocols · Can be combined with Selank
Selank + Semax as a Cognitive Stack: When used together, Selank may address the anxiety and cortisol-driven cognitive impairment dimension while Semax may support BDNF-mediated cognitive enhancement. The combination is discussed at consultation, with full evidence review, regulatory status disclosure, and individual clinical assessment before any consideration.
Cognitive Peptides · Ann Arbor, Dexter
Schedule a cognitive performance consultation at Arbour Longevity. We review your neurological health, hormone status, and relevant biomarkers, and discuss which investigational compounds have evidence worth considering, what the limitations of that evidence are, and whether it is appropriate for your situation.
Regenerative medicine and aesthetic arts: where science meets the artistry of transformation.
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