BPC-157 vs TB-500
The two most-researched recovery peptides, both largely preclinical.
Body Protection Compound 157
A pentadecapeptide studied extensively in animal models for tendon, ligament, muscle, and gut healing. Human evidence remains limited.
TB-500 (synthetic thymosin beta-4 sold under the research name TB-500)
A synthetic version of Thymosin Beta-4 studied in animal models for wound healing, tissue repair, and reduced inflammation.
| Attribute | BPC-157 | TB-500 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Healing & Recovery | Healing & Recovery |
| FDA status | Not FDA-approved. Removed from Category 2 (April 2026); PCAC voted 8 to 6 to recommend for compounding (July 2026); awaiting FDA rulemaking | Not FDA-approved. Removed from Category 2 (April 2026); PCAC voted 8 to 6 to recommend for compounding (July 2026); awaiting FDA rulemaking |
| Half-life | ~4 hours | ~6 hours |
| Molecular weight | 1,419.5 Da | 4,963.5 Da |
| Mechanism | In animal studies it appears to promote angiogenesis, modulate the nitric oxide system, and upregulate growth factor signaling involved in tissue repair. Human mechanistic data are limited. | Promotes actin polymerization, angiogenesis, and migration of repair cells to sites of injury in animal models. |
| Legal status (US) | Not approved; research use only | Not approved; research use only |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between BPC-157 and TB-500?
BPC-157: A pentadecapeptide studied extensively in animal models for tendon, ligament, muscle, and gut healing. Human evidence remains limited. TB-500: A synthetic version of Thymosin Beta-4 studied in animal models for wound healing, tissue repair, and reduced inflammation.
Which has stronger research evidence, BPC-157 or TB-500?
BPC-157 is rated Preliminary and TB-500 is rated Preliminary for evidence level in this database. Evidence level reflects the quality of published research, not a recommendation.
Are BPC-157 and TB-500 FDA-approved?
BPC-157: Not FDA-approved. Removed from Category 2 (April 2026); PCAC voted 8 to 6 to recommend for compounding (July 2026); awaiting FDA rulemaking. TB-500: Not FDA-approved. Removed from Category 2 (April 2026); PCAC voted 8 to 6 to recommend for compounding (July 2026); awaiting FDA rulemaking.
Evidence levels reflect the quality of published research, not a recommendation. This comparison is educational and is not medical advice.