Unapproved Peptides in Victoria

Unapproved Peptides in Victoria

Key Messages

13 cases of anaphylaxis associated with unapproved peptides have been notified in Victoria since July 2025, including a cluster of five cases in the second half of September 2026. All but one had never experienced anaphylaxis prior to this.

Unapproved peptides products carry significant safety risks including immediate and potentially fatal anaphylaxis, and more delayed onset conditions such as inflammatory responses, wide-ranging body side effects, musculoskeletal injuries and liver damage.

Community members should be aware that anaphylaxis is a rapid onset, potentially fatal condition requiring emergency care. If they experience signs of anaphylaxis, they should call Triple Zero (000) immediately and should not delay seeking care because of concerns about how or where the product was obtained.

Anaphylaxis can occur following the first dose or even after multiple doses which have been otherwise uneventful.

You do not need to have a history of anaphylaxis to develop anaphylaxis to unapproved peptides.

People are strongly advised not to purchase or use unapproved peptide products. Consumers should seek advice from qualified healthcare professionals and use only products supplied through Australian pharmacies.

Community members are advised to discuss any use or interest in the use of unapproved peptides with their GP.

What is the Issue?

Unapproved peptides have not been assessed by the

Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration

(

TGA

) for safety, quality or effectiveness. The contents of unapproved peptide products, including the substance, concentration and whether contaminants or toxins are present, are unknown. Contaminated or non-sterile manufacturing can increase the risk of infection and allergic responses, including anaphylaxis.

Who is at Risk?

People using unapproved or experimental peptide products that have not been prescribed by a medical practitioner. You do not need to have an anaphylaxis history to develop anaphylaxis to unapproved peptides.

Symptoms and Transmission:

Anaphylaxis is an uncommon severe allergic reaction to a trigger (allergen) in the environment, which can affect how a person breathes and how blood moves around their body. Some of the more common allergens that can lead to anaphylaxis include foods, insect bites/stings and medications. Symptoms can occur within minutes and mostly often develop within 20 minutes to 2 hours after exposure to the allergen. Even if you have previously used an unapproved peptide without experiencing a reaction, you can still develop anaphylaxis with subsequent doses. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention and can be fatal.

Signs of a mild to moderate allergic reaction include:

swelling of lips, face, eyes

hives or welts appearing on the skin

tingling mouth

abdominal pain, vomiting

Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include:

difficult/noisy breathing

swelling of tongue

swelling/tightness in the throat

difficulty talking and/or hoarse voice

wheeze or persistent cough

persistent dizziness or collapse

pale and floppy (in young children)

Recommendations:

Do not purchase or use unapproved peptide products.

Seek advice from qualified healthcare professionals and use only products supplied through Australian pharmacies.

Talk to your medical practitioner about safe, approved alternatives which may be available to reach your health goal.

If you have used an unapproved peptide, please tell your healthcare provider. Their priority is your health and safety, and this information will help them provide the care you need.

Anyone who develops unusual or unexpected symptoms from unapproved peptides should seek medical care promptly.

Community members who experience an adverse event due to unapproved peptides, can

REPORT

it to the

TGA

. Sharing your experience can help the

TGA

identify emerging safety concerns and help protect other people.

Report an adverse event or safety problem - TGA website

.

Related Information

Report an adverse event or safety problem - TGA website

Community Safety

Health & Lifestyle