BPC 157: An overview
BPC 157, a pentadecapeptide, is a partial sequence of a body protection compound (BPC) discovered in and isolated from human gastric juice [1]. In a study conducted on rats, BPC 157 has demonstrated a wide range of protective activities in various organs and tissues, contributing to angiogenesis and showing extensive healing effects [2]. In animal models, it has shown potential in accelerating the healing of wounds, promoting the outgrowth of tendon fibroblasts, and cell survival under stress [3]. BPC 157 has also been effective in treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and has shown a particular wound healing effect [4]. It has been suggested as a potential treatment for COVID-19 due to its anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, and endothelial-protective effects [5].
However, it needs to be said that these studies were conducted on animals. Further research is needed to understand how BPC 157 affects humans.
Benefits of BPC157
BPC157 has been shown to have a variety of beneficial effects. It has an anti-ulcer peptidergic effect, treating lesions in the gastrointestinal tract [6]. It has a strong angiogenic potential, stimulating the growth of new blood vessels [2]. BPC157 can counteract the side-effects of NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) [7]. It improves wound healing and has been found to counteract liver fibrosis and portal hypertension in rats [8]. BPC157 has also been shown to recover disturbed lower esophageal and pyloric sphincter pressure in rats [9].
Does BPC 157 Promote Muscle Growth and Recovery?
Yes, studies show that BPC 157 can indeed promote muscle recovery. However it is important to note that the majority of these studies were conducted on rats, and more evidence is needed in humans.
Side Effects of BPC157
BPC-157 has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects in various conditions. In animal studies, it was found to be well-tolerated and did not cause any serious toxicity [10]. However, when co-administered with certain chemotherapy drugs, it either exacerbated or alleviated the drug-induced side-effects [11, 12]. In a human trial, BPC-157 was found to prevent weight gain and insulin resistance induced by atypical antipsychotic drugs [10]. The side effects of BPC-157 alone in humans are not fully understood, and more research is needed [10].
Conclusion
While BPC 157 does indeed have some benefits, most of the scientific evidence comes from studies conducted on rats. More research on humans is required and caution is needed. The next time you hear an influencer recklessly promoting BPC 157, tell them to check their information with MediSearch.