How to Navigate the Peptide Debate:
A Pharmacy Educator Weighs in
September 10, 2026
Peptides have been making waves in health and wellness circles, but what exactly are they?
To help break it down, Sara (Mandy) Reece, PharmD, CDCES, BC-ADM, BCACP, FADCES, FCCP, dean of the School of Pharmacy at PCOM Georgia, offers some clarity on what peptides are and how they fit into the broader conversation about compounded medications.
What are Peptides?
In simple terms, Dr. Reece says to think of peptides as tiny messengers that help keep our bodies running smoothly. These microscopic molecules act like conductors, coordinating biological processes such as hormone regulation, immune responses, and the release of neurotransmitters that influence mood and cognition. Because of their crucial roles and benefits, peptides have become very popular for those seeking overall health and anti-aging benefits.
What Is Peptide Compounding?
In the realm of pharmacy medicine, peptide compounding refers to the creation of customized doses of therapeutic peptides. Some pharmacies mix, alter, or assemble pharmaceutical-grade raw ingredients to meet individual prescriptions.
“Peptide compounding requires precise formulations due to the delicate nature of these amino acid chains,” said Reece. “It’s a highly specialized process that ensures accurate dosing of each medication for individual needs.”
The FDA’s Current Stance on Peptides
Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been evaluating certain peptides for potential medical use in compounding. Following two days of hearings, the Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee recommended that six out of seven proposed peptides be added to the 503A bulk drug compounding list, potentially easing access for patients.
While these recommendations are promising, there are still steps to be taken before they become official, experts say.
The Need for Research
While the potential of peptides is exciting, Dr. Reece says important questions remain about their safety and effectiveness. “Without extensive testing and research and thorough clinical trials, we can’t be certain about how safe or effective these peptides truly are.”
She goes on to urge consumers to approach these therapies with caution and consult healthcare professionals before considering peptide treatments.
“For now, staying informed and cautious is essential as the science and regulations around these tiny but powerful molecules evolve,” says Reece.
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About PCOM Georgia
PCOM Georgia has been serving students and the community for 20 years as a branch campus of Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), a private, not-for-profit, accredited institution of higher education established in 1899. Located in Suwanee (Gwinnett County), PCOM Georgia offers doctoral degrees in osteopathic medicine, pharmacy and physical therapy. Graduate degrees are offered in biomedical sciences, medical laboratory science and physician assistant studies. The campus joins PCOM South Georgia in Moultrie in helping to meet the healthcare needs of the state. Emphasizing "a whole person" approach to care, PCOM Georgia focuses on educational excellence, interprofessional education and service to the community. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 678-225-7500. The campus is also home to the Georgia Osteopathic Care Center, an osteopathic manipulative medicine clinic, which is open to the public by appointment. For more information, visit pcomgeorgiahealth.org.
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