Trying to research peptides online is a bit like trying to read a map in a storm. Everyone has an opinion, but it is hard to tell who is actually looking at the data. At TruthTides, we use a grading system to show you how much proof actually exists for these options.
Why do some peptides have an A+ grade?
An A+ grade means there is a mountain of evidence from high-quality studies. Semaglutide is a perfect example. It is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which is a fancy way of saying it mimics a natural hormone in your body by about 94%.
Scientists know exactly how it works. It signals your brain to reduce your appetite and slows down how fast your stomach empties. It also helps your pancreas work better. The evidence is solid because of big trials like STEP 1, where people lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight, and SELECT, which showed a 20% reduction in major heart problems.
Tirzepatide also earned an A+ because it goes a step further. It is a dual agonist, meaning it hits two different receptors (GIP and GLP-1) at once. In the SURMOUNT-1 study, it showed a 22.5% weight loss, which actually beat Semaglutide in head-to-head comparisons.
What about the A and A- grades?
An A grade, like the one given to Tesamorelin, means the science is strong but more specific. This peptide is a version of a growth hormone-releasing hormone. It tells your brain to release its own growth hormone to target visceral fat—the deep belly fat around your organs.
While it showed an 18% reduction in that deep fat and a 37% drop in liver fat, there is a catch. It is currently only FDA-approved for people with HIV-related fat issues. Using it for general weight loss is considered "off-label," and scientists are still waiting for big Phase III studies to prove it works the same for everyone else.
Thymosin Alpha-1 gets an A- because while it is approved in over 35 countries to help with things like hepatitis and vaccines, the FDA has not approved it here yet. It helps your immune system by maturing T-cells (your body's little soldiers), but we still don't know the best way to use it for things like anti-aging.
Look for the missing pieces
No peptide is perfect, and a good source will tell you what we do not know yet. For instance:
- The Rebound: With Semaglutide, studies show people often regain substantial weight once they stop taking it.
- Side Effects: About 44% of people on Semaglutide deal with nausea.
- Muscle Loss: Researchers are still worried about how these tools might cause you to lose muscle along with fat.
- The Cost: Without insurance, some of these can cost over $1000 a month.
This is a great one to bring up with your doctor. You can find peptide-experienced physicians in our Find a Doctor directory.
This content is sourced exclusively from TruthTides clinical reference data and does not constitute medical advice.
Referenced Peptides
This content was generated from TruthTides clinical reference data. It does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.