For competitive athletes, understanding the WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) status of performance peptides is not optional — it is essential. Violations can result in multi-year bans, loss of titles, and permanent reputational damage. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the current WADA status of commonly used performance peptides.
The Prohibited List Framework
WADA's Prohibited List is updated annually (effective January 1 each year). Peptides primarily fall under Section S2 (Peptide Hormones, Growth Factors, Related Substances and Mimetics) and Section S4 (Hormone and Metabolic Modulators). The critical distinction is between "in-competition" and "out-of-competition" prohibitions — some substances are only banned during the competition period, while others are banned year-round.
Currently Banned Peptides (Year-Round)
The following peptides are banned both in and out of competition under WADA's current Prohibited List: all growth hormone secretagogues (Ipamorelin, CJC-1295, GHRP-2, GHRP-6, Sermorelin, Tesamorelin), IGF-1 and its analogs (IGF-1 LR3), BPC-157, TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4), and Melanotan II. Athletes in tested sports must maintain a washout period that accounts for detection windows.
Not Currently Listed (But Monitor Annually)
Compounds not currently on the WADA Prohibited List include: NAD+, Glutathione, GHK-Cu, Selank, Semax, DSIP, KPV, and Oxytocin. However, WADA regularly adds new substances, and "not listed" does not mean "approved" — it means the substance has not yet been specifically prohibited. Athletes should verify current status before each competitive season.