What is BPC-157?
BPC-157 (Body Protective Compound 157) is a pentadecapeptide derived from a protective protein in the stomach. Preclinical research has examined its role in angiogenesis, tendon-to-bone healing, gut barrier repair, and neuroprotection. Researchers and athletes have studied it for its apparent ability to accelerate recovery from soft tissue injuries.
Mechanism of action
BPC-157 is thought to upregulate growth hormone receptor expression, promote VEGFR2 activation (driving angiogenesis), and modulate the nitric oxide system. It also appears to influence the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems, which may contribute to reported neuroprotective effects.
Researched benefits
- Accelerated tendon, ligament, and muscle recovery in animal models
- Gastrointestinal barrier protection and ulcer healing
- Angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation) supporting wound repair
- Neuroprotective signaling in preclinical brain-injury models
- Anti-inflammatory effects in joint and gut tissues
Researched dosage
Most research protocols use 250–500 mcg administered 2× per day via subcutaneous injection. Researchers commonly report subcutaneous injection near the site of interest. Doses in animal studies typically scale to 2.5–10 mcg/kg.
A typical cycle runs 4 weeks on, then 2 weeks off before reassessment.
Use the calculator below to convert your target BPC-157 dose into exact insulin-syringe units.
Reconstitution & storage
A standard 5 mg vial reconstituted with 2 mL of bacteriostatic water yields 2500 mcg/mL. Lyophilized vials stored at 2–8°C remain stable for extended periods. Once reconstituted, refrigerate and use within 30 days.
Side effects & considerations
- Mild injection-site irritation
- Transient fatigue reported anecdotally
- Possible nausea in higher reconstituted concentrations
BPC-157 stacks
- Connective Tissue Recovery — paired with TB-500. Synergistic soft-tissue and tendon repair. BPC-157 and TB-500 are frequently paired in recovery protocols. BPC-157 supports vascular and gut healing while TB-500 drives actin-based tissue remodeling.
- Joint & Cartilage Support — paired with GHK-Cu. Cartilage signaling and skin healing. Pair short BPC-157 cycles with GHK-Cu for connective-tissue regeneration research.
Selected research
- BPC 157 and Standard Angiogenic Growth Factors — Current Pharmaceutical Design, 2018
- Stable Gastric Pentadecapeptide BPC 157 — Journal of Physiology Paris, 2014
- BPC 157 effects on tendon-to-bone healing — Journal of Orthopaedic Research, 2010