Peptides are short strings of amino acids that (under the right conditions) create proteins in our bodies. They are naturally anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and even antibacterial, making them an excellent addition to any health and wellness regimen. Unlike most common drugs, peptides are small enough to penetrate the bloodstream and target specific receptors within our cells. This allows peptides to perform numerous therapeutic functions, including building muscle, improving insulin sensitivity, and boosting the immune system. Peptide drugs are usually delivered via injection or orally consumed capsules, but researchers have recently discovered that peptide nasal sprays can also deliver powerful therapeutic benefits.
Intranasal administration has been shown to significantly increase the bioavailability of peptides, especially those with higher molecular weights. This is because the nose-to-brain pathway bypasses the gastrointestinal tract, and thus allows for peptides to be rapidly absorbed into the brain. The development of peptide nasal sprays has opened up new avenues for CNS drug delivery. Many CNS peptides are small molecules, but there is growing interest in developing large-molecule nasal formulations that can treat conditions like migraines and Alzheimer’s disease.
Several factors must be considered when designing intranasal peptide formulations. These include the peptide’s molecular weight, lipophilic properties, osmolality, and pharmacokinetic characteristics. The use of permeation enhancers and mucoadhesives can further improve peptides’ IN bioavailability.
One peptide with exciting potential for nasal spray delivery is BPC-157. This neuroprotective peptide has been shown to reduce thrombosis in rats with superior sagittal thrombosis. It has also been shown to inhibit the release of inflammatory cytokines in the nasal lining. These findings suggest that intranasal delivery of BPC-157 may be effective in the treatment of neuroprotection, neurotransmitter modulation, and maintenance of the brain-gut axis.
Because of these benefits, some peptide companies have begun to develop BPC-157 nasal spray formulas. For instance, the popular peptide retailer Pure Rawz offers a premium BPC-157/TB-500 repair spray that pairs stable BPC-157 with potent healing peptide TB-500 for advanced tissue healing.
Intranasal administration of peptides is a great alternative to traditional injection. It is especially well-suited to treating neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, because it delivers peptides directly from the nose to the brain. Additionally, it bypasses the digestive system, which can limit absorption and dilute the efficacy of peptides. However, before deciding to use a peptide nasal spray, it is important to consult with a reputable medical professional who can review your unique medical history and provide personalized guidance for your peptide therapy.