Metabolic Health Peptides
Supports metabolic function
Metabolic peptides target the systems that regulate how your body processes energy: glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, lipid handling, and metabolic rate. GLP-1 agonists improve insulin sensitivity and glucose control. MOTS-c (a mitochondrial-derived peptide) activates AMPK, a cellular energy sensor that promotes glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation. AOD-9604 targets fat metabolism specifically through a fragment of growth hormone that affects adipose tissue without the growth-promoting effects of full GH.
Metabolic dysfunction underlies many chronic diseases: type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and metabolic syndrome. Peptides that improve metabolic function can address these conditions at their root rather than treating individual symptoms. The intersection of metabolic peptides with weight loss peptides is significant, but metabolic health is a broader concept that includes people at normal weight who have poor metabolic markers.
This page collects every peptide on PeptideWiki tagged for metabolic health. Browse individual profiles for mechanisms, dosing, and safety data.
Peptides (9)
Semaglutide
Semaglutide is a medication that mimics a natural fullness hormone (GLP-1) in the body. It is FDA-approved as Wegovy for weight management and Ozempic for type 2 diabetes, with significant effects on appetite control and blood sugar regulation.
Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide is a dual-action medication that activates both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, two key fullness and blood sugar hormones. It is FDA-approved as Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes and Zepbound for weight management, outperforming semaglutide in head-to-head trials.
Retatrutide
Retatrutide is an investigational medication that activates three hormone receptors (GIP, GLP-1, and glucagon) at the same time. Phase 2 trials showed up to 24% body weight loss at 48 weeks, and it is currently in Phase 3 development.
NAD+
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a critical molecule found in every living cell. It is essential for mitochondrial energy production, DNA repair, and cellular metabolism. NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, and supplementation is being studied for anti-aging and metabolic health benefits.
Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing compound used for reducing deep abdominal fat in patients with lipodystrophy (abnormal fat distribution). It is FDA-approved and marketed as Egrifta, specifically targeting visceral fat accumulation.
MOTS-c
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide produced by mitochondria (the energy centers of cells), encoded in mitochondrial DNA. It was the first mitochondrial peptide to enter clinical trials. Research focuses on metabolic health, exercise performance, and longevity, with natural levels declining with age.
Kisspeptin-10
Kisspeptin is a brain signaling peptide that plays a critical role in reproductive hormone regulation. It works upstream of GnRH to control the hormone signaling chain between the brain and reproductive organs. It is being studied for fertility and puberty disorders.
Humanin
Humanin is a 24-amino-acid peptide produced by mitochondria (the energy centers of cells), encoded in mitochondrial DNA. It was discovered for its ability to protect brain cells from amyloid-beta toxicity, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Research explores its roles in brain protection, metabolic regulation, and cellular stress resistance.
5-Amino-1MQ
5-Amino-1MQ is a small molecule that blocks an enzyme linked to fat storage and metabolic problems. Research focuses on fat cell metabolism, weight loss, and reversing diet-related obesity in animal studies.