‘We are going to see serious adverse events’: What are injectable peptides? – CTV
April 17, 2026
Health Canada is warning Canadians about the risks of injectable peptides sold online, as the products grow in popularity for uses ranging from weight loss to anti-aging.
In a statement the government agency says, “peptides are biologically active substances that can change how the body works and are often regulated as prescription drugs,” and that “unauthorized peptide products sold for wellness purposes have not been assessed for safety, quality, or effectiveness.”
Over the past six months, Health Canada says it has received four complaints of adverse reactions where an unauthorized peptide was believed to be the suspected cause. In those cases, individuals reported feeling ill or experiencing negative side effects after use.
The department notes those reports do not establish a direct causal link, but says it takes the complaints seriously and will act if violations of the Food and Drugs Act are identified.
“Think twice before injecting peptides bought online: unauthorized products can seriously harm you,” reads the government advisory.
