Peptide Therapy
5 minute read
Peptides are small chains of amino acids that are the building blocks of proteins. Because of their small size, they are easily absorbed by the body in certain forms. This blog will discuss the most effective way to utilize peptides.
The Power of Peptides
Peptides have been of interest and studied by the medical community for nearly one hundred years, with the first use of synthetic peptides resulting in the development of insulin for diabetes patients.
Since then, peptide therapy has been used for a variety of concerns, from aesthetics to regenerative medicine, as the nature of these amino acid chains has proven effective for supplementing other processes of the body. To measure efficacy, however, the type of peptide used, the way it is administered, and the patient’s goals all play into how effective the therapy is.
Peptides are like any supplement or vital nutrient that enters the body; the way it is processed is directly related to how effective it is. For example, ingesting peptides orally (such as in a supplement or protein powder) is less effective as the peptides must go through your digestive system, and they lose some of their potency. You may be familiar with collagen peptides or creatine, which are the more popular types of peptides used in supplement form today. Additionally, since most peptides aren’t very stable, they break down too easily when put in a topical cream.
However, when peptides are administered by an experienced physician, they are proven to be much more effective.
How Are Peptides Administered?
Peptides can be administered orally (supplements, powders, etc.), topically (creams or lotions), subcutaneously (injected into the body), or intravenously (in an IV bag). For better or worse, peptides in supplement form are very easy to find over the counter, and most health food stores carry them in some form. However, because the FDA does not regulate supplements as strictly as they do medications, the formulas of these products might not be as potent or effective as they claim.
Why Should I See a Doctor to Get Peptides?
Since peptides’ efficacy usually depends on the formulation and the way it is administered, for the best results, you should see a physician with experience in peptide formulation to create custom peptide formulations for your unique needs.
Dr. Joshua Crose is the founder of Capitis Medical & Aesthetics in San Diego and has studied and administered peptide therapies for many years. In addition to specialized, targeted treatment plans for specific ailments, Dr. Crose has also developed peptide protocols for more general problems:
- Energy UP increases energy and mitochondrial function
- Acute injury focuses on rapid tissue healing and decreasing inflammation
- Chronic injury is similar to the acute injury protocol with adjusted dosing
- Anti-aging is the most comprehensive, addressing mitochondrial health, immune system, nerve, and brain cell health
- Neuroregenerative and neuroprotection protect brain and nerve cells from environmental toxins and stress
Seeing an experienced physician for your peptide therapy is essential as they will be able to monitor your progress, adjust doses, and tailor the process to your needs. Dr. Crose also offers different versions of peptides, from increased potency oral supplements to subcutaneous injections and curated peptide IV drips.
How Long Does Peptide Therapy Last?
It’s important to remember that peptides are small chains of amino acids that can be combined to make new chains for different purposes or results. Because of the individual nature of this therapy, each patient will have a different treatment plan, which details the dosage, number of treatments, and pacing.
Dr. Crose often administers peptide protocols in cycles, setting specific dosages at set intervals so your body has time to adjust. Additionally, as he is partnered with a custom producer of peptides, he can provide oral supplements that are just as effective as other methods, allowing for more customization and combinations of peptides.
Depending on the type of protocol, peptide therapy is administered over about two months, spaced apart by one or two weeks. After the two (or so) month period, patients may start to see and feel the results of their peptide therapy. If results are not apparent quickly enough, Dr. Crose will adjust your dosage.
Most patients with successful peptide protocols may take anywhere from one to six months (from the start of treatment to visible results) to allow their bodies to adjust to the changes. After this, most patients will need regular examinations to monitor the longevity of their treatment.
Want to Learn More About Peptide Therapy in San Diego, CA?
In addition to peptide therapy, we offer bioidentical hormone replacement therapies and stem cell-based therapies, all under the care of Dr. Crose. Call Capitis Medical & Aesthetics today at (619) 510-6018 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a comprehensive peptide consultation with Dr. Crose.