What is BPC-157?
BPC-157, or Body Protection Compound 157, is a 15 amino acid pentadecapeptide. It’s an incomplete sequence of a body protective chemical found in and isolated from human gastric juice[1, 2].
BPC-157's activity has been proposed as an angiogenesis agent that forms new blood vessels from old ones [1]. In a study on rats, it has been reported to boost vessel density in vivo and in vitro and improve blood flow in the ischemic muscle of the rat's hind limb [1].
This peptide also showed broad healing properties, such as speeding up the repair of various injuries, like broken rat Achilles tendon [2]. It has been shown to stimulate tendon explant growth, cell survival in the presence of stress, and in vitro migration of tendon fibroblasts [2].
Moreover, BPC-157 has also been approved for clinical applications, especially for ulcerative colitis and the treatment of external and internal fistulas. It has been demonstrated to be prominent in alcohol and NSAID lesions [3, 4].
In addition, BPC-157 has been found to have high angiogenic activity, protect the endothelium, prevent and reverse thrombus formation after abdominal aorta anastomosis, and exhibit neuroprotective properties [4].
However, with BPC-157, it is crucial to realize that most results supporting its benefits come from animal studies, in particular rat studies. More work is needed to determine whether it is safe and effective. Do not take BPC-157 without talking to a doctor first. If you would like to take it, discuss it with your physician.
What Are Antidepressants?
Antidepressants are drugs that target depression. They work by acting on neurotransmitters and chemical messengers in the brain. These medications balance chemicals in your brain called neurotransmitters to alleviate symptoms exerted by depression [5]. There are different types of antidepressants, targetting different neurotransmitters and processes in the brain
Influencing Neurotransmitters
A significant way antidepressants work is by affecting the brain’s levels of some neurotransmitters. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), for example, stop your blood from absorbing some of the serotonin from your brain, causing an increase in serotonin in the brain. Serotonin rises to fight depression [6].
Modulating Receptor Activity
Even antidepressants act on specific brain receptors. Serotonin transporter antagonists, for instance, modulate serotonergic neurotransmission by reducing the activity of 5-HT1A and 5-HT1B autoreceptors [7].
Inducing Neuroplasticity
Another way in which antidepressants act is by causing neuroplasticity. When administered over the long term, they induce intracellular changes and increase neurotrophic factors that preserve neural and synaptic plasticity [8].
.
Can you take BPC-157 with Antidepressants?
The interaction between BPC-157 and antidepressants is not well studied. We know very little about the interaction between BPC-157 and antidepressants.
But there’s some information about drugs that may act on antidepressants.
The common medications used for depression and anxiety disorders are antidepressants. Several of these medications are, for instance:
They also might cause side effects or be less effective if combined with other medications.
For example, with Lopressor (a beta-blocker), some antidepressants will stymie the enzyme that degrades Lopressor from operating normally. It will accumulate Lopressor levels in the body, leading to higher risks of side effects [9].
Conclusion
BPC-157 is potentially helpful as a treatment for many ailments, but it has been poorly researched concerning antidepressants. This is why it is essential to talk with your doctor or physician before you begin taking any new drug, such as BPC-157, especially if you are already taking another drug, such as antidepressants. They can make personalized recommendations based on your past and existing medication.