Disclaimer: Educational content only. Most compounds discussed lack FDA approval for energy enhancement. Not medical advice. Consult a physician for health decisions.Only a few peptides for energy have scientific support. A recent Phase 3 trial found that many popular options do not work as claimed.
The real solution is not just about stimulation. It depends on how well your mitochondria work.
The Evidence Tier System (Read This First)
Some energy peptides are approved and supported by human trials. Others only have animal studies or are just hyped online.
Tier 1: Strong Human Evidence
| Peptide | Status | Energy Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| SS-31 (Elamipretide) | FDA-approved Sept 2025 | Direct mitochondrial ATP enhancement |
| Tesamorelin | FDA-approved 2010 | Indirect via GH/metabolic optimization |
Tier 2: Substantial Human Data
| Peptide | Status | Energy Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| MOTS-c | Phase 1b completed (analog); native banned | Direct AMPK activation, mitochondrial biogenesis |
| CJC-1295 | Phase 2 completed (PK/PD only) | Indirect via GH/IGF-1 elevation |
| Sermorelin | Previously FDA-approved; only legal GH secretagogue | Indirect via GH optimization |
| NMN/NR | 10-25+ RCTs | NAD+ precursor; substrate restoration |
Tier 3: Primarily Animal Studies
| Peptide | Status | Energy Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Ipamorelin | Limited human PK/PD data | Indirect via pulsatile GH release |
| BPC-157 | 3 small human studies, zero RCTs | Indirect via tissue repair |
| TB-500 | Phase 2 topical only | Indirect via regeneration |
| Epithalon | Russian studies, limited Western validation | Indirect via telomerase/melatonin |
| Humanin | Correlational human data only | Mitochondrial protection, insulin sensitization |
| SHLP2 | Animal studies only | CNS-mediated energy regulation via CXCR7 |
Best Peptides for Energy (And Important Facts)
SS-31 (Elamipretide)
This is the only energy peptide with strong scientific support and official approval.
It was approved for Barth syndrome on September 19, 2025 (brand name: Forzinity). This is the first FDA-approved therapy that targets mitochondria. Its effects on energy may go beyond this rare disease.
How it works: It binds to cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, helping stabilize the structure and boost electron flow for more ATP production.
Long-term results: The TAZPOWER trial showed a 45% improvement in knee extensor strength and a 96.1-meter gain on the 6-minute walk test over 168 weeks.
The MMPOWER-3 Reality Check: Why SS-31 Failed Phase 3
SS-31 failed 3 major phase trials:
- Primary Mitochondrial Myopathy: Failed both co-primary endpoints (6-minute walk test, fatigue scores)
- Acute Heart Attack (EMBRACE-STEMI): Failed to reduce infarct size
- Dry AMD (ReCLAIM-2): Did not meet any vision endpoints, but did achieve a 43% reduction in ellipsoid zone attenuation progression (p=0.003). Two new Phase 3 trials are now underway.
The problem: ” mitochondrial myopathy” patients were grouped regardless of whether the defect was in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) or nuclear DNA (nDNA).
Why this killed the results (November 2024 post-hoc analysis):
| Defect Type | Result vs. Placebo |
|---|---|
| nDNA defects (n=58) | +25.2 meters (p=0.03) |
| mtDNA defects (n=158) | -11.0 meters (worse) |
There was a 36-meter difference between subgroups, and this was not just random variation.
Why This Makes Sense
Elamipretide improves protein import by stabilizing cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane.
A patient with nuclear DNA defects (proteins made before import): this peptide is helpful.
A patient with issues with mitochondrial DNA itself: this is useless.
What This Means
“Mitochondrial support” is too vague; the type of defect matters. A new NuPOWER Phase 3 trial is now testing a higher 60mg dose in patients with nDNA mutations only.
Source: Karaa et al., Neurology 2023
MOTS-c
This is a newer peptide with a unique way of working.
This peptide signals to cells as if you had just exercised, even without physical activity.
How it works: Activates AMPK via the Folate-AICAR-AMPK axis to trigger the same metabolic adaptations from Zone 2 cardio.
The evidence: In one study, older mice ran much longer and had better muscle ATP levels.
Human data: The MOTS-c analog CB4211 completed Phase 1a/1b trials in 20 obese subjects with NAFLD. Results after 4 weeks:
- ALT reduced 21%
- AST reduced 28%
- Glucose reduced 6%
- There was also a trend toward weight loss.
- No serious side effects were reported.
CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin
CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin are often mentioned online as peptides that might help with energy.
How it works: CJC-1295 is a synthetic GHRH analog that binds to receptors on the pituitary somatotrophs, activating the cAMP signaling pathway to stimulate GH synthesis and secretion.
Ipamorelin works on a different receptor (the ghrelin/GHS receptor) to boost this release. When used together, they send a stronger signal to increase natural GH production than either one alone.
The evidence: GH/IGF-1 increases, according to two randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trials. No serious adverse events.
No controlled trials have tested CJC-1295 or Ipamorelin for energy or fatigue outcomes. Energy benefits are indirect and theoretical, based on improved sleep, faster recovery, and improved body composition from elevated GH.
The catch: CJC-1295 was removed from the FDA Category 2 list in September 2024 but awaits a final PCAC determination. Ipamorelin remains Category 2 for 503B facilities and is under review for 503A pharmacies. As of December 2024, neither can be reliably compounded in the US.
Timeline: Research suggests it can take weeks or even months before you notice more energy.
Sermorelin
The only legally compoundable growth hormone secretagogue.
How it works: Stimulates the pituitary gland to produce more growth hormone—gentler and more physiological effects compared to synthetic HGH.
The evidence: Previously FDA-approved (1990/1997) for pediatric growth hormone deficiency. Discontinued in 2008 for business reasons, not safety concerns. Has a USP monograph enabling legal 503A compounding.
Any energy benefits are indirect and come from better sleep, faster recovery, and a more efficient metabolism.
The advantage: You can get a prescription from a compounding pharmacy, unlike CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin, which are subject to uncertain regulations.
Note: Like other GH secretagogues, no RCTs exist specifically for energy or fatigue outcomes.
BPC-157
This peptide is popular among biohackers, but there’s little research on its effects in humans.
How it works: Through multi-pathway activation, including VEGFR2 angiogenesis and nitric oxide synthesis. Accelerates tissue repair: tendons, muscles, gut lining.
The evidence: Only THREE small human studies exist (total <20 patients):
- 12-patient knee osteoarthritis retrospective (2021)
- Interstitial Cystitis Pilot (2024)
- 2-person IV safety study (2025)
A March 2025 systematic review identified 36 studies: 35 preclinical, only 1 clinical. Zero randomized controlled trials completed.
Energy connection: Faster tissue repair might help reduce fatigue from chronic inflammation or injuries. However, no studies have tested BPC-157 specifically for energy.
Humanin
The first mitochondrial-derived peptide was discovered in 2001, but the peptide community has mostly overlooked it.
How it works: A 24-amino-acid peptide encoded by the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene. Protects mitochondrial function, improves insulin sensitivity, and has demonstrated neuroprotective effects. Same gene family as SHLP2.
The evidence: No interventional human trials, but strong correlational data:
- Children of centenarians have significantly higher circulating humanin levels
- Alzheimer’s patients show decreased CSF humanin
- Plasma declines with age
- Extensive animal studies show lifespan extension and optimized metabolic health.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7343442/ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10135985/
Energy connection: In theory, better mitochondrial function could mean more energy, but this hasn’t been tested yet.
SHLP2 (Small Humanin-Like Peptide 2)
This is a new mitochondrial-derived peptide with a unique action. It crosses into the brain to help regulate energy.
How it works: Unlike SS-31 and MOTS-c, which act on mitochondria directly, SHLP2 crosses the blood-CSF barrier and activates POMC neurons in the hypothalamus. This suppresses appetite and promotes thermogenesis (activation of brown fat).
The receptor was identified as CXCR7 with ~70% agonistic activity compared to its natural ligand.
The evidence: Zero human trials. A 2023 Nature Communications study in mice showed:
- Protected against diet-induced obesity
- Improved insulin sensitivity
- Enhanced brown adipose tissue thermogenesis
- Reduced food intake
- Serum SHLP2 was lower in obese and diabetic subjects (correlational)
Energy connection: This peptide works through the brain’s energy centers instead of acting directly on mitochondria. Its mechanism differs from that of other mitochondrial-derived peptides.
NAD+ (Mistaken for a Peptide)
This coenzyme is available from most peptide vendors because it is effective.
By age 50, natural NAD+ levels drop by about 50%. This can lead to brain fog, slower recovery, and fatigue.
How it works: Without enough NAD+, your cells can’t properly convert nutrients into ATP. Even if it doesn’t boost other pathways, restoring NAD+ is essential for energy.
The evidence: Human trials show that NAD+ precursors (NR, NMN) can increase blood levels by 40-90% within 4 weeks, with significant improvements in sleep quality for Long COVID patients. Oral NR can increase NAD+ levels in the brain and improve motor function in patients with Parkinson’s disease.
NMN regulatory update: In September 2025, the FDA reversed its November 2022 decision and confirmed NMN is lawful for use in dietary supplements.
Optimal dosing: A 2024 systematic review of 10 RCTs found 600mg/day appears optimal for NMN. No additional benefit observed at 900mg. PM dosing may improve sleep-related outcomes.
One issue is quality. Many NAD+ supplements have less than what’s listed on the label. It’s essential to choose products that are third-party tested.
If you want to learn more, I have an article about the NAD peptide here.
Side Effects & Safety
CJC-1295/Sermorelin (GHRH Agonists): Common side effects include vivid dreams, water retention, and injection site reactions.
CRITICAL WARNING: Theoretical Cancer Risk. According to the Handbook of Biologically Active Peptides, GHRH acts as an autocrine/paracrine growth factor for many human cancers, including lung, prostate, breast, and ovarian cancers.
Specific receptors for GHRH are present on these tumor cells, and agonists can stimulate their increase. A history of cancer should be considered a contraindication to GHRH agonists.
Ipamorelin: The FDA cited a reported death when ipamorelin was administered IV for gastric motility, causing its Category 2 designation.
BPC-157: Cancer risk is debated—theoretical angiogenic concern vs. data showing anti-tumor effects. No long-term human studies exist. The FDA cited immunogenicity risks and insufficient safety data.
TB-500: Risk is established, not theoretical. Thymosin Beta-4 is overexpressed in malignant tumors (colorectal, lung, melanoma) and actively drives metastasis. Cancer history is an absolute contraindication.
Safety data for long-term peptide use doesn’t exist.
FDA-approved SS-31 is an exception.
Quality Considerations
Peptide vendors often operate in a gray area, which raises concerns about quality.
What to look for:
- Third-party Certificates of Analysis (COA)
- HPLC and mass spectrometry verification
- 98%+ purity documentation
- Established community reputation
Red flags:
- No COA available
- Prices are dramatically below market
- Therapeutic claims on vendor websites
- Sites that appeared recently with no track record
The Bottom Line
Peptides for energy can work, but the reality is more complicated than marketing claims suggest.
Proven, direct mitochondrial support: SS-31 (Elamipretide/Forzinity) is the only approved option with strong clinical data. Access is limited because it’s approved only for Barth syndrome.
Promising new science: MOTS-c can trigger the same cellular changes as exercise. There is now Phase 1b human data for an analog, but it is currently banned from compounding.
Legally accessible hormone optimization: Sermorelin is the only growth hormone secretagogue that can be legally compounded. It may help energy indirectly by improving sleep and recovery. CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin have uncertain regulatory status.
Emerging mitochondrial peptides: Humanin and SHLP2 work in interesting ways, but there are no human trials yet. More research is needed.
Safe and easy options: Quality NMN (600mg/day, now legal as a supplement) and NR are available. Collagen peptides, magnesium, B vitamins, and CoQ10 are also worth considering.
Peptides can help, but they are not a quick fix. It usually takes weeks or months to see real results, and they can’t replace good sleep, nutrition, or stress management.
Peptides may help with ongoing fatigue if other supplements haven’t worked.
Do peptides give you energy like caffeine?
No. Caffeine hides fatigue by blocking adenosine receptors, works right away, then wears off and can cause crashes. Peptides like MOTS-c and SS-31 help your cells actually make more ATP. They work more slowly, but address the root cause instead of just the symptoms.
How long do peptides take to work for energy?
Most research shows you might notice some effects in 2-4 weeks, with bigger changes at 8-12 weeks. Growth hormone peptides usually take longer to show results, while mitochondrial peptides may work a bit faster.
Are peptides for energy legal?
It depends on the peptide. FDA-approved options like SS-31 (Elamipretide) and Tesamorelin need a prescription. Sermorelin can be legally compounded. But 17 popular peptides, including BPC-157, MOTS-c, and TB-500, were banned from compounding in February 2024. They’re now sold as “research chemicals,” which is a legal gray area.
What is the strongest peptide for energy?
SS-31 (Elamipretide) has the strongest evidence for boosting energy, is FDA-approved, and has 18 human trials showing it improves ATP production. MOTS-c is the most promising new option for direct mitochondrial support.
Do collagen peptides give you energy?
Not directly. Collagen peptides give you amino acids that help build protein and may improve energy indirectly by supporting gut health, lowering inflammation, or improving sleep. For direct energy, therapeutic peptides like MOTS-c target how your cells make energy.
Are peptides safe?
Common side effects are usually temporary (injection site reactions, headaches, initial fatigue). Long-term human safety data doesn’t exist for most peptides. SS-31’s FDA approval is the exception. Users are essentially self-experimenting with most compounds.
Which peptides are banned by WADA?
Most performance-related peptides are banned: BPC-157 (added in 2022), MOTS-c, TB-500, and all growth hormone secretagogues (CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, Sermorelin). Competitive athletes should assume any peptide is banned unless it’s clearly allowed.