Health Canada Publishes Advisory on Unapproved Peptide Products

Health Canada has issued a public advisory warning consumers about the risks associated with unapproved peptide products sold through online retailers. The advisory names several growth hormone secretagogues — including MK-677 (Ibutamoren) — and synthetic peptide fragments as products that have been identified in compliance monitoring activities.

The advisory notes that Health Canada has not authorised any peptide product sold as a research compound, bodybuilding supplement, or anti-ageing treatment for sale in Canada. Products marketed with therapeutic claims without a Drug Identification Number (DIN) or Natural Product Number (NPN) are in violation of the Food and Drugs Act.

Health Canada's Marketed Health Products Directorate has been conducting increased surveillance of online retailers selling peptide products to Canadian consumers. The agency reports that laboratory analysis of seized products has in some cases revealed inconsistencies between labelled and actual peptide content, contamination with bacterial endotoxins, and the presence of undeclared substances.

Consumers who have purchased unapproved peptide products are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience any adverse effects. Reports of adverse reactions can be submitted through Canada Vigilance. Health professionals are encouraged to ask patients about the use of research peptides, particularly in the context of anti-ageing, body composition, or cognitive enhancement regimens.